Castle Kašperk, Sumava Travel Guide

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Explore Kašperk Castle, the highest royal castle in Bohemia, offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval history.

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Castle Kašperk

Kašperk Castle, the highest royal castle in Bohemia, was built in 1356 by King Charles IV. Perched high in the Šumava Mountains, it guarded the Bohemian-Bavarian border and protected the region's gold deposits. Today, visitors can explore its well-preserved towers and walls, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Castle Kašperk

55, Žlíbek, 341 92, CZ
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Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
Friday 9:30 am-6 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Castle Kašperk.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the castle involves walking and some hiking.
Visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure you can fully enjoy the outdoor activities and views.
Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the castle's history and significance.
Consider taking the circular route via Pustý hrádek viewpoint for superb views of Kašperk.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Sušice Museum of Šumava

Jezerní slať

Vlčí výběh Srní (podívání zvenku)

Vodní zámek

Pustý Hrádek

Explore Castle Kašperk on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Castle Kašperk, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

To reach Kašperk Castle by car, navigate to Kašperské Hory. From the town center, follow the signs for Hrad Kašperk. A designated parking area is located about 1.5 km from the castle. Parking costs 60 CZK per day for cars. From the parking area, it's a 1.5 km walk to the castle.
Public Transport

To reach Kašperk Castle via public transport, take a bus to Kašperské Hory. From the Kašperské Hory bus station, you can either walk to the castle (approximately 3 km, or about 1 hour) or take a local taxi. A taxi from Kašperské Hory to the castle may cost around 200-300 CZK. Walking from the town center to the castle takes approximately 3 km.
Walking

From the parking lot, follow the green trail up the hill. The walk is approximately 1.5 km on a gravel road. Alternatively, consider taking the yellow trail circuit over Pustý hrádek viewpoint, adding approximately 2 km to the walk. This path offers a superb view of Kašperk.

Discover more about Castle Kašperk

Kašperk Castle, also known as Karlsberg, stands as the highest royal castle in Bohemia, soaring 886 meters above sea level. Founded in 1356 by Holy Roman Emperor and King of Bohemia, Charles IV, its primary purpose was to safeguard the kingdom's frontier with Bavaria. The castle also served to protect the region's rich gold deposits and secure the Golden Path, a vital trade route.Constructed between 1356 and 1361, the castle features a rectangular palace with two imposing residential towers. The inner castle is fortified by impenetrable ramparts, while the courtyard historically supported economic activities. Over the centuries, Kašperk was managed by pledged castellans loyal to the crown, who administered the castle and its surrounding estates. The castle even served as a strategic base during the suppression of uprisings.Although never besieged by the Hussites due to its masters' support of the movement, Kašperk gradually fell into disrepair. In 1616, the town of Kašperské Hory acquired the dilapidated castle, and it remains under their ownership to this day. Today, Kašperk Castle welcomes visitors to explore its historical architecture and enjoy breathtaking views of the Bohemian Forest. Hiking trails around the castle provide opportunities to immerse oneself in the stunning natural environment.