Perched on a forested conical hill in the eastern Bohemian countryside, the ruins of Potštejn Castle are one of the most atmospheric medieval sites in the Orlice foothills. A sprawling Gothic fortress with a treasure legend, centuries of royal and noble history, and a charming 18th-century chapel — this place rewards every curious visitor.

The hilltop commands sweeping views over the middle section of the Podorlicko region and the valley of the Wild Orlice river. Dense woodland surrounds the ruins, turning vibrant green in spring, offering cool shade in summer, and blazing with colour in autumn. Walking through the multiple gate towers and ruined courtyards feels genuinely exploratory — the site is large enough to wander and discover at your own pace, yet intimate enough to feel like a personal find.

• Village of Potštejn (parking in the village) — path up the wooded hillside, approx. 20–30 min, easy to moderate
• An 18th-century Way of the Cross leads from the church of St. Lawrence in the village up to the castle — a scenic alternative route

• Open to the public since 1994
• The Chapel of the Sacred Stairs (1762–1766) is the best-preserved structure on site
• The castle is a listed Czech cultural monument
• A volunteer group of mostly local seniors called 'Dědkostav' maintains and cares for the castle

The legend of a hidden treasure buried by the robber knight Nicholas of Potštejn inspired the famous Czech writer Alois Jirásek to write his historical novella 'Poklad' ('The Treasure') — and even today, the mystery adds an irresistible sense of adventure to any visit.