Pustý Hrádek
Pustý Hrádek: A Ruined Bastion with Panoramic Views
Kašperk Castle: Bohemia's Highest Royal Fortress
Explore Kašperk Castle, the highest royal castle in Bohemia, offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval history.
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.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Castle Kašperk
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
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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.
Local tips
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the castle involves walking and some hiking.
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Visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
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Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure you can fully enjoy the outdoor activities and views.
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Join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the castle's history and significance.
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Consider taking the circular route via Pustý hrádek viewpoint for superb views 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.
A brief summary to Castle Kašperk
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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