Hidden deep in the forested ridges of the Vizovice Highlands, the ruins of Starý Světlov castle are a rewarding find for anyone who enjoys history with their hiking. One of the largest shell-keep type castles in Moravia, it sits quietly in the woods near the village of Podhradí, offering an atmospheric glimpse into seven centuries of turbulent medieval life.

The site lies about 10 km southwest of Vizovice and less than a kilometre from Podhradí near Luhačovice, close to the hill called Bába (635 m a.s.l.). What strikes you first are the earthworks — a massive defensive rampart still standing over 5 metres high in places, encircling the oval castle core. Fragments of the palace walls, traces of the gate tower and the outline of a deep moat are all still readable in the landscape. In summer the whole site is wrapped in forest greenery, while autumn turns it into a stage of golden and russet hues.

• Village of Podhradí (roadside parking) — approx. 700 m walk northwest uphill, about 15–20 minutes, difficulty: easy
• From the Luhačovice area — via marked hiking trails through the Vizovice Highlands, difficulty: moderate

• The ruins have been a protected cultural monument since 1964
• Archaeological research and conservation works took place in 2013; rescue works on the palace resumed in 2021
• No tourist facilities on site — bring your own water and snacks
• Illegal digging has been reported; please do not disturb any structures

Local legend has it that a fortune looted by the roving knight Pankrác of Liptovský Svätý Mikuláš still lies buried beneath the ruins — three brave villagers from Pozlovice who tried to dig it up on a stormy night were apparently scattered across the surrounding hills by a devil. The treasure, it seems, is still waiting.