Velhartice is one of South Bohemia's most striking castles, famous for its unique stone bridge connecting two towers — a feature you won't find anywhere else in Europe. The ruins rise on a rocky spur above the Ostružná River and are breathtaking in any season.

Perched at 640 meters above sea level amid the gentle hills of the Šumava foothills, the castle offers a stunning view of the Rajský dům palace and the Putna tower, joined by that remarkable stone bridge — a true gem of Gothic architecture. In summer the courtyard buzzes with visitors, in autumn the surrounding forests blaze with color, and in winter the misty ruins look almost fairy-tale like. It's a perfect spot for a relaxed walk paired with history and legends about the Bohemian crown jewels, once hidden here during the turbulent Hussite era.

How to get there

• From the village of Velhartice — a few minutes' walk from the village center, easy trail, suitable for the whole family
• Parking is available right below the castle, making it a convenient day-trip destination

Practical information

• The castle is state-owned, managed by the National Heritage Institute
• Declared a National Cultural Monument in 2001
• On-site exhibition called Šumavská klenotnice tells the story of the Bohemian crown jewels hidden here
• The castle has served as a filming location for movies such as Čertoviny (2017) and Princezna a písař (2014)

Fun fact: it was here in the 15th century that the Bohemian crown jewels were secretly hidden from George of Poděbrady — the bridge linking the tower and the palace remains unique across Europe to this day.