Kleť Lookout Tower and Mountain Restaurant

4.7 (4219)

Ascend to Czechia’s oldest stone tower atop Mount Kleť for sweeping vistas of Bohemia’s basins, Šumava peaks, and alpine horizons, paired with hearty Czech fare at the summit restaurant.

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The mountain restaurant

Perched atop Mount Kleť at 1083 meters, this historic site features the Czech Republic's oldest stone lookout tower and a mountain restaurant offering panoramic views of South Bohemia, Šumava Mountains, and distant Alps on clear days. Built in 1825 by Prince Schwarzenberg, it rewards hikers with 360-degree vistas after a rewarding ascent through Blanský Forest trails.

A brief summary to The mountain restaurant

Chlum 1043, Křemže-Český Krumlov 1, 382 03, CZ
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Budget
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

Local tips

Opt for the green trail from Holubov station for a scenic 5km moderate hike with forest shade and minimal crowds.
Visit at hour marks to hear the tower bell ring from inside—step aside safely for the resonant chimes.
Combine with an observatory tour below the peak for stargazing insights into Czech astronomy.
Fuel up on pork knuckle or goulash at the restaurant post-hike for authentic Bohemian recovery.

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Getting There

Hiking

5km moderate trail from Holubov station, 1.5-2 hours uphill, free, marked green path through forest; physically demanding in parts.
Driving + Hike

Park in Křemže or Chlum (free lots), 2-3km final hike, 45-90 minutes; 4x4 advised for upper roads, no public transport direct.
Cycling

38km loop from Český Krumlov via Plánský, 3-4 hours moderate, bike rental in town ~500 CZK/day; steep gradients challenge.

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Discover more about The mountain restaurant

History and Architecture

The Kleť Lookout Tower stands as the oldest stone observation tower in the Czech Republic, constructed between 1822 and 1825 by Prince Josef Jan Nepomuk of Schwarzenberg. Originally named Josef's Tower, this neo-Gothic structure with distinctive battlements served private family purposes before opening to the public in the mid-19th century. Positioned at the summit of Mount Kleť, the highest peak in the Blanský Forest at 1083 meters, it became a key trigonometric point for 19th-century cartographic surveys. Adjacent to the tower, Terezia's Cottage, built in 1925 and named after Princess Terezie of Schwarzenberg, now houses exhibits on local nature and offers overnight stays.

Panoramic Views and Surroundings

From the 18-meter tower's summit, visitors enjoy a breathtaking circular panorama encompassing the Českobudějovická and Třeboň basins, Novohradské Mountains, Šumava range, and on exceptionally clear days, the distant Alps. Nearby landmarks include the highest sundial in Bohemia, a 172-meter television transmitter from 1977, and the Czech Republic's highest observatory, which hosts public tours. The summit area blends natural beauty with subtle human imprints, set amid dense Blanský Forest trails teeming with wildlife.

Mountain Restaurant Experience

The on-site mountain restaurant, known as Horská chata Kleť, provides a cozy retreat serving traditional Czech dishes like goulash, pork knuckle, and homemade lemonades alongside cold beers. With a rustic interior and outdoor seating, it offers refueling spots for hikers. The venue operates seasonally, emphasizing hearty fare suited to post-hike appetites amid stunning vistas. Self-service options and a welcoming atmosphere make it a hub for trekkers exploring the peak.

Access and Activities

Multiple hiking trails converge on Kleť from Český Krumlov (about 10km), Křemže, Holubov, and Zlatá Koruna, ranging from moderate 5km paths to longer forest routes. A former chairlift from Krasetín provided easier access until recent closures due to safety approvals, shifting emphasis to rewarding foot ascents through shaded woodlands. Cycling routes like the Krumlov loop also pass nearby, while the 24/7 tower features automated entry for flexible visits.

Nature and Visitor Tips

Blanský Forest envelops the mountain in a protected natural zone ideal for birdwatching and photography. Exhibits in Terezia's Cottage detail local flora and fauna, complementing outdoor exploration. Prepare for variable weather at elevation, with sturdy footwear essential for steep trails. The site's blend of history, cuisine, and scenery positions it as a must-visit for Český Krumlov day-trippers seeking elevated perspectives.