Apartmány
To Vítkův Hrádek by Ferry Across Lake Lipno (38 km, 480 m elevation)
A combination of cycling and a ferry ride. A challenging climb awaits you, but the reward is the absolute best view of the entire Lipno from the highest castle in Bohemia.
Vítkův hrádek is the highest castle ruin in the Czech Republic and one of the most popular viewpoints of Lake Lipno and the surrounding Bohemian Forest landscape. The Gothic fortress attracts visitors with its history, unique atmosphere, and a panorama that, on clear days, even includes the Austrian Alps.
History of Vítkův hrádek
Vítkův hrádek was founded in the 13th century by the Vítkovci family as a border fortress and administrative center for their Bohemian Forest estate. The castle guarded trade routes and controlled the area near the current border with Austria.
In the 14th century, it briefly served as a prison for King Wenceslaus IV, which is one of the most famous episodes in its history. Later, the castle passed into the hands of the Rožmberk family, who maintained it, but it gradually lost its strategic importance.
From the 17th century, the castle began to fall into disrepair and was definitively abandoned in the 18th century. To this day, the remains of the walls, palace, and main tower have survived, showing the original scale and significance of this Bohemian Forest fortress despite their condition.
The Ruin and the Panoramic View
The remains of the perimeter walls, palace, and main tower, which is now adapted as a lookout, have survived from Vítkův hrádek. The stonework shows the original extent of the castle, and parts of the former fortifications are clearly visible. The main highlight is the reconstructed tower, which offers a wide panorama of Lake Lipno, the Bohemian Forest, and in very good visibility, the Austrian Alps. On the horizon, peaks like Dachstein, Grosser Priel, or Watzmann can be spotted. This is one of the best views of Lake Lipno.
Visiting Vítkův hrádek
The ruin is freely accessible all year round, so you can visit at any time. However, the lookout tower has seasonal opening hours and may be closed on certain days. During the high season, it is open daily, while in the low season, it is only open on selected days of the week.
A small entrance fee is charged at the tower entrance, which can also be paid by card. As part of the Lipno Pass program, visitors have one free entry.
Planning a trip to Vítkův hrádek?
Check out our practical route overview, map, and tips for your visit — including a recommended cycling route that leads directly to the castle.
📍 Where to relax after visiting Vítkův hrádek?
After visiting Vítkův hrádek, a place where the whole family can relax is perfect. Our Apartments Nad rybníky offer a peaceful base at Lake Lipno. You will find a large fenced garden, a playground, a saltwater pool, and quiet space to relax. Whether you are planning trips, cycling routes, family experiences, swimming at the beach, or just relaxing days in nature, everything starts and ends in comfort with us.
Book your stay in advance while availability lasts.
We look forward to seeing you!
