Velké Březno's New Chateau is a quiet architectural gem on the edge of the Ore Mountains foothills, well worth combining with a walk near Ústí nad Labem. Perched on the slope of Zámecký vrch, this elegant late Empire-style mansion surprises visitors with its refined design and lovely surrounding park.

This is a peaceful, low-key destination - more suited to a leisurely afternoon stroll than a demanding mountain trek, but it fits nicely into a route combining the chateau with the nearby hills. The chateau park, split into English and French sections, is especially beautiful in spring and autumn when the old trees show off their colors. The gentle slopes of Zámecký vrch offer easy walking with views over the Elbe valley.

How to get there

• From the centre of Velké Březno - short climb up Zámecký vrch, easy trail, approx. 15-20 minutes
• Can be combined with trails along the Elbe valley towards Ústí nad Labem

Practical information

• The New Chateau has been a protected cultural monument since 1963, now state-owned
• Managed by the National Heritage Institute (Národní památkový ústav)
• The chateau is open to the public

It was here that Countess Sophie Chotek stayed in the late 19th century - the same woman who, alongside Archduke Franz Ferdinand, was assassinated in Sarajevo in 1914, an event that changed the course of European history.