A 4km circular walk to the castle of Valdštejn and Hlavatice viewpoint
- A relatively gentle introduction to the central section of Český ráj, with a circular walk from the Pelešany car park to the Hlavatice viewpoint, situated on top of a sandstone rock tower and then on to the spectacularly situated 13th century gothic castle of Valdštejn
- Total walk length is 3.7km, with 110m of height gained/lost. Paths are relatively easy but there are slopes up to Valdštejn and down from Hlavatice, which can be slippery in wet weather.
- Refreshments may be available at the U Hradu hospoda, next to Valdštejn or at the Pension pod Hlavaticí.
“Hlavatice is an infrequently visited viewpoint but the view across Turnov and the Jizera valley should make the climb up steep steps onto this sandstone rock outcrop worthwhile. Then stroll along to the fascinating Valdštejn castle and perhaps grab someting to eat at the next door pub – not a bad way to spend an hour or so!”
Directions
- Start and finish the walk at the paid parking of Pelešany, easily reached from Turnov (payment during opening hours of Valdštejn)
- From the car park, take the YELLOW trail (direction Pod Hlavaticí) and reach the signpost after 1km. Approximately 100m down the track is the restaurant and pension of Pod Hlavaticí where refreshments may be available.
- Take the RED trail up the hill for 300m to reach the tower viewpoint of Hlavatice
- Continue on the RED trail for 1.4km to reach the gothic castle of Valdštejn (usually open from April to October – see hours on the website)
- Refreshments may be available at the small pub next to the castle Hospůdka U Hradu (usually open at the same times as the castle)
- Return to the car park using the GREEN trail, which is picked up just below the castle on the left side. Reach the Pelešany car park after 800m.