Houska Castle: Gateway to Hell and Historical Enigma
Explore the mysterious Houska Castle, a Gothic fortress guarding a legendary gateway to hell in the heart of the Czech Republic.
Houska Castle, a 13th-century Gothic fortress located north of Prague, is shrouded in mystery and legend. Built atop a cliff in a remote area, it's rumored to guard a gateway to hell, adding to its unique and eerie allure. Visitors can explore its well-preserved interiors and learn about its dark history.
A brief summary to Houska castle
- 1, Houska, 471 62, CZ
- +420728351101
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a small uphill hike from the parking area to the castle entrance.
- Bring cash, as the entrance fee is payable in Czech crowns or Euros, and the nearest ATM is 12km away.
- Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the month.
- Consider visiting nearby castles such as Bezděz, Ralsko, or Kokořín to make the most of your trip.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Prague, take a train to Mladá Boleslav. From there, catch a bus to Doksy, which runs regularly and takes approximately 45 minutes. From Doksy, you can take a local bus or taxi to Houska Castle, about 8 km away. Check local bus schedules for the most accurate times, as they may vary. A single bus fare within Doksy is approximately 20 CZK. A taxi from Doksy to Houska Castle will cost around 200-300 CZK.
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Driving
If driving from Prague, take the route towards Mladá Boleslav and then follow signs for Doksy. From Doksy, follow the signs to Houska Castle, located at Houska 1, 471 62 Doksy. Parking is available near the castle, with a fee of approximately 50 CZK. Be aware that the road leading to the castle is narrow in sections
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Walking
For those staying in Doksy, Houska Castle is accessible on foot, approximately 8 km from the town center. Follow the road signs towards Houska, enjoying the scenic views along the way. The walk takes approximately 1.5-2 hours.
Discover more about Houska castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Korecký vrch
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Protected landscape area Kokořínsko – Mácha's Region
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Autokemp Klůček
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Hotel Port
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Vyhlídka Miloše Formana
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Hotel Berg
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Rekreační středisko Arnika
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LakePark Residence
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Kemp Sluníčko
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Parkoviště - Kemp Borný
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Camp Borný
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Andrea Recreation Center
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Karakul Cottages
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Elite Cottages
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Macha Lake Cottages
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Chateau Doksy
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Muzeum Čtyřlístek na zámku v Doksech
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State Castle Bezděz
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Masarykovy sady
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Big and Small Bezdez
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Tyršovy sady
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Zoopark Doksy
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Lake Macha Regatta
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Lake Mácha
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Essential places to dine
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Huki Restaurant
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Restaurant U Doušů
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Restaurace Kočí
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Molo 23
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Restaurace Myší Hrádek
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Restaurace u Jezera
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Restaurace V Jachtklubu
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Penzion a restaurace Na rybníčku Máchovo jezero Doksy-Staré Splavy
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Restaurace Sklípek
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Restaurace Sluníčko, Staré splavy
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Bufet
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Tinka-obchodní Centrum
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Lidl
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Řeznictví u Jindřicha
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Trafika- Vrabcová Lucie
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Bistro U Strnada
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Penny Market
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Café a zmrzlina Saturnin
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Roubenka na rozcestí
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Pension Fami Retro Design - Macha Lake
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Minimarket Staré Splavy
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Sport Paudera Ltd.
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Vláček Doksy-Staré Splavy (zastávka Sklípek)
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Jazz club Píchlá Nota
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Anziba
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Sport Bar
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TERASA warm-up lounge
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Modrý bar
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MeyDey BAR
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Music club F.A.B
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Cross Club
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Klub Had
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