Zahrádky Chateau, formerly called Nový Zámek, is a Renaissance-turned-Baroque manor in the Česká Lípa region of northern Bohemia, wrapped in a romantic landscape park that leads into the mysterious Peklo valley. Built after 1547 by the Vartenberk family, it later passed through the hands of Albrecht von Wallenstein and became the main seat of the Bohemian branch of the Kounitz family for centuries.

The chateau park sits on a plateau between the village of Zahrádky and a sandstone cliff above the Robečský stream valley. It's a scenic spot filled with rare trees, statues, and the so-called Wallenstein Avenue. In spring and summer the greenery and exotic tree species shine, while autumn brings rich colours to the foliage - all set in a peaceful, almost storybook atmosphere perfect for a relaxed family walk through history.

How to get there

• Village of Zahrádky - easy access by car, ample parking available
• Cycle route 3053 and the European long-distance hiking trail E10 pass through here, continuing on into the Peklo valley
• About 1 km from the Zahrádky u České Lípy train stop on line 087

Practical information

• The chateau burned down in January 2003 and is now owned by Charles University
• Closed to the public for 11 years, limited tours of the preserved parts resumed in summer 2014
• The chateau park is freely accessible to visitors
• The annual Zahrádky Festival (Zahrádecké slavnosti) takes place here in summer
• The park and adjoining avenue have been part of the Zahrádky u České Lípy nature monument since 2013

Fun fact: the chateau once hosted major figures of the Czech National Revival, including Josef Dobrovský and Božena Němcová, and the name of the neighbouring Peklo (Hell) valley still intrigues visitors today.