Top 20 Castles in Southwest
Best castles in Southwest offers a rich historical experience, featuring numerous well-preserved castles and ruins. This region is characterized by its diverse landscapes, providing scenic backdrops for these ancient structures. Visitors can explore centuries of history, from medieval fortresses to grand palaces, often nestled amidst natural beauty. The area provides opportunities to discover architectural marvels and cultural heritage.
Best castles in Southwest
- The most popular castles is Český Krumlov Castle, a castle converted into a palace on a rocky outcrop above the Vltava River. It is the second largest castle and palace complex in Bohemia and is listed as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site.
- Another must-see spot is Grafenried / Lučina – Abandoned Village Ruins, a historical site that offers an interesting look into history with many private impressions in the destroyed village community. Visitors can find information boards detailing the village's past and ongoing excavations.
- Visitors also love Kašperk Castle, a castle in a great location. The way to the castle is a comfortable walk from the parking lot, and services at the castle are available.
- Southwest is known for its medieval castles, grand palaces, and historical ruins. The region offers a variety of structures, from well-preserved fortresses to abandoned village ruins, providing diverse historical exploration.
- The castles in Southwest are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 470 upvotes and over 1000 photos.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Český Krumlov Castle
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Grafenried / Lučina – Abandoned Village Ruins
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Kašperk Castle
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Dívčí Kámen Castle Ruins
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Vítkův Hrádek Castle Ruins
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Ruins of the Paulaner Monastery and Světce Castle
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The monastery died out in 1786, later the Windischgrätz noble family bought it and tried to build a luxurious residence here. Prince Alfred I. Windischgrätz began building a palace near the monastery in 1858-1861, which he never completed.
cs.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sv%C4%9Btce_(Tachov)
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Landstein Castle
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Nice to watch.
More information: hrad-landstejn.cz/de
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Wooden Chapel of Our Lady and St. Sophie
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Rožmberk Castle
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Crypt of Waldheim Castle
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The tomb was opened violently by unknown and then no longer closed. The mortal remains that were still there were finally buried in the cemetery of Neulosimthal in 1942 - that's what it says on an information board attached by the OWV Georgenberg 2013 next to the ruins.
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Tips from the Community
The former Grafenried (Czech: Lučina) stood on a small hill near the German border (today the Untergrafenried border crossing) west of Nemanice. Grafenried also included the villages of Anger (Upor), Seeg (Pila), and Haselbach (Liskova). Around 800 people lived there. After the end of the Second World War, the German population was expelled from the border area, and the village, with all its buildings, was gradually razed. The Grafenried church of St. George still stood until the 1970s. Although it had the status of a monument, it was blown up and demolished. On the initiative of a former German resident of the community and some historians on the Czech side, the remains of the church were partially excavated and renovated in 2011. The search for traces was extended to the entire lost village and its districts.
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In the family-owned woodworking businesses, Count Jindřich Kolowrat-Krakowský commissioned this chapel in 1939. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Saint Sophia and was built as a memorial to the Count's first wife, Sofia Nikolaevna Trubetskaya, who died in 1938. The mother of four of the Count's five children lived to be only 38 years old.
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Hidden in the forest, you can still find remnants of a tomb.
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The ruins hint at the former grandeur. Very impressive.
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The castle is closed in winter. Opening times can be found on the website.
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Imposing castle, definitely go inside
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The castle, dating from the mid-13th century, is one of the oldest castles of the Vítkovci family, the predecessors of one of the most powerful Bohemian aristocratic families – Rožmberk – who, after the king, held the most powerful positions in the country. Despite a large number of learned and adventurous feudal lords, the most popular family figure is apparently Perchta of Rožmberk. According to legend, she has continued to haunt the family residences as a gloomy ghost since her death. Worth a visit The most spectacular view of the enormous medieval castle and the romantic landscape of South Bohemia can be had from the English Tower. But first, you have to climb over 200 steps.
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Access is available from May to September on weekends from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; peak season until 4:30 p.m. Closed on weekdays during the off-season. It's best to check online to see if it's open. The courtyard is worth it!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most unique castles to visit in the Southwest region?
The Southwest region is home to a variety of unique historical sites. For instance, Český Krumlov Castle is a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site, known for its vast complex and stunning views over the Vltava River. Another intriguing spot is Grafenried / Lučina – Abandoned Village Ruins, which offers a poignant look into a destroyed village community with ongoing excavations. Hluboká Castle also stands out with its impressive architecture, visible from afar.
Are there family-friendly castles in the Southwest region?
Yes, several castles and historical sites in the Southwest are suitable for families. Český Krumlov Castle, Hluboká Castle, and Dívčí Kámen Castle Ruins are all categorized as family-friendly. These sites often offer engaging historical experiences and plenty of space to explore.
What kind of historical insights can I gain from visiting these castles?
The castles in this Southwest region provide deep historical insights. For example, Český Krumlov Castle showcases centuries of architectural evolution, from Gothic to Baroque, reflecting the influence of various noble families. Sites like Grafenried / Lučina – Abandoned Village Ruins offer a unique perspective on local community life and its eventual demise, with information boards detailing its past. Many castles, such as Dívčí Kámen Castle Ruins, have preserved founding documents, offering a direct link to their medieval origins and administrative functions.
What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see near the castles?
Many castles in the Southwest region are situated in scenic locations, offering beautiful natural features and viewpoints. Český Krumlov Castle, for instance, provides breathtaking views of the Vltava River winding around the old town. Kašperk Castle is known for its great location, often included as a destination in walking tours. Other highlights like Dívčí Kámen Castle Ruins and Vítkův Hrádek Castle Ruins also offer impressive vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
Are there hiking opportunities near the castles in the Southwest?
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. For example, you can find easy hikes like the 'Český Krumlov Castle – View of Český Krumlov's Old Town loop' which is just over 6 km. For more options, explore the Easy hikes in Southwest guide, which includes routes near many historical sites.
What kind of cycling routes are available near the castles?
The Southwest region provides diverse cycling routes. Road cyclists can enjoy routes like the 'Vltava River at Nová Pec – Lipno Dam loop' which is nearly 97 km. For gravel biking enthusiasts, there's the 'Landstein Castle – Slavonice Old Town loop' covering over 65 km. You can find more detailed routes in the Road Cycling Routes in Southwest and Gravel biking in Southwest guides.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in this Southwest region?
Visitors frequently praise the impressive architecture and historical significance of the castles. Many appreciate the well-preserved nature of sites like Český Krumlov Castle and the detailed information available at places like Grafenried / Lučina – Abandoned Village Ruins. The scenic views, especially from castle towers and elevated ruins, are also a highlight, making the climb to places like Hluboká Castle well worth it.
Can I visit castle ruins in the Southwest region?
Absolutely. The Southwest region features several captivating castle ruins. Notable examples include Dívčí Kámen Castle Ruins, known for its beautiful and quite large structure, and Vítkův Hrádek Castle Ruins. These sites offer a glimpse into medieval history and often provide stunning views.
Is there a castle that was once a hunting lodge?
Yes, the Diana Hunting Lodge is a notable example. It is categorized as a castle and historical site, offering a unique architectural style and historical context related to its original purpose.
What is the best way to experience the scale of Český Krumlov Castle?
To truly appreciate the scale of Český Krumlov Castle, it's recommended to climb its castle tower. From there, you can see the Vltava River, hundreds of historic buildings, bridges, and extensive parks and gardens. The castle complex itself spans over six hectares, making it the second largest in Bohemia.
Are there any monasteries or religious buildings near the castles?
Yes, the region also features historical religious sites. For example, the Ruins of the Paulaner Monastery and Světce Castle combine both castle and religious building elements, offering a unique historical exploration.
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