Higher and Even Higher: 10 + 1 Lookout Towers in Central Bohemia

Take a look around the land of the Blaník Knights

You’ve probably seen the historic lookout resembling a Hussite watchtower atop Velký Blaník, but how about something new? Explore other lookout towers in the Podblanicko region.

One of the youngest lookout towers in Central Bohemia is Na Pasece near Trhový Štěpánov. It offers panoramic views of the countryside in its first year of operation. Open year-round and freely accessible, it provides a view of the legendary Blaník. Along the way, you can relax at the former Štěpánov Quarry; the local information booth is handy, especially during sudden rain showers.

From one lookout tower to another, that’s exactly what you can do here. You can’t miss the beautiful wooden structure with a red cap overlooking nearby Zruč nad Sázavou. Babka Lookout Tower is just 2 kilometers from Zruč Castle, which is definitely worth a visit. In its park, children can enjoy testing their knightly skills on the Path of Knight Milota. The tower itself is freely accessible and features a unique crank organ that provides commentary in three languages. And if it happens to rain, there’s a gazebo beneath the lookout tower to keep you dry.

Špulka “the Spool” in Posázaví

Near Divišov, you’ll find the charming Špulka Lookout Tower. Its name isn’t just for show—it really does resemble a giant wooden spool perched on a thread.

After climbing 151 steps, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Benešovsko and Posázaví, with sights stretching to Velký Blaník and, on clear days, all the way to Ještěd. No need to pack snacks; there’s a cozy spot with seating and refreshments.

The tower is open year-round and accessible from the nearby village of Lbosín via the picturesque Bird Educational Trail. Along this short path, take a break in a wooden gazebo by a pond or enjoy a woodland cinema near the tower, watched over by a whimsical wooden gnome with spools of thread. Nearby, don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Český Šternberk Castle, offering not only stunning historical decor but also breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Not Just Prague Views

Experience a unique challenge at Korunka lookout tower—it’s intentionally crooked, designed by an architect for safety. This 30-meter-high steel structure resembles a leaning tower with a rotational hyperboloid shape. After climbing 118 steps, enjoy views of Prague, the Berounka Valley, and sometimes even Říp or the Krkonoše Mountains. There’s a self-service bar at the tower’s base. Accessible via hiking trails from Černolice, Všenory, Dobřichovice, Řitka, or Mníšek pod Brdy, it’s open year-round but closed in winter.

Near Dolní Břežany, the Závist lookout tower by Martin Rajniš’ Huť architecture studio offers views of an ancient Celtic hillfort and Prague. Accessible year-round for free, you can reach it by various routes or bike.

From Máminka to Točník

Another special experience awaits you at the Máminka lookout tower, designed by Martin Rajniš’ Huť architecture studio. This stunning wooden structure near Beroun sways in places, offering exhilarating panoramas that make it a challenge worth taking on. You’ll marvel at views of the Křivoklát region, and on clear days, catch glimpses of Šumava, Ještěd, or the Krušné hory’s Klínovec. Entry to the tower is free.

A convenient path from Hudlice, suitable for strollers and young children, leads you there. Kids will adore the forest with its gnome houses. Nearby, you have many options for further exploration. In Nižbor, you can try blowing glass decorations at Rückl Glassworks or visit the ancient oppidum. The enchanting castle of Točník is just a stone’s throw away, adding a touch of history to your outing.

Lady above Orlík Dam

The wooden Milada lookout tower in central Povltaví takes its name from the author’s mother. What can you see from here? In addition to a distant view of the gently rolling landscapes of Kamýcko and Sedlčansko and the Orlík and Kamýk reservoirs, you’ll also enjoy a unique perspective of the famous Solenice horseshoe—the tower stands at its base, offering a view flipped from the usual photos.

You can also spot Maková hora with its renowned pilgrimage site, and on clear days, even the peaks of Šumava are visible. Admission is charged, and you won’t need to bring snacks because there’s a cozy bistro right next door serving homemade delights and excellent coffee.

From Water Tower to Skyline

The Water Tower in Kolín offers a distinct attraction, repurposed from a 1920s water reservoir into a lookout tower. Situated on the town’s outskirts, it’s easily accessible, even with a stroller. Panoramic views stretch in all directions, showcasing sights like the Krkonoše Mountains, Železné hory, Bezděz, and Milešovka on clear days.

As you ascend to the observation deck, informative displays detail the tower’s history. There is an admission fee. Visit the ground-floor info center for excursion ideas, including a stroll to St. Bartholomew Hillock in the city center.

Sloping Tower in Central Bohemia

The oldest assuredly is the lookout tower at Michalovice Castle near Mladá Boleslav. Named Putna, its slant is even more pronounced than its famous Italian cousin. Little of the castle remains, partly due to legends of a hidden treasure within its walls. Over centuries, adventurers and alchemists have sought it, resorting even to explosives.

From the tower, you have a clear view of the Jizera River valley, parts of Mladá Boleslav, and Loretto in nearby Kosmonosy. There is an admission fee, and you can refresh yourself at the local bistro.

+ 1 Extra ‘Not a Lookout Tower’

Radovič viewpoint doesn’t rise as high as typical lookout towers, but its location on a hill near Velvary offers a splendid view of the nearby Polabí lowlands and the České středohoří mountains. A short climb leads to a platform with tables and benches, perfect for a picnic with a view of Mount Říp. Admission is free, accessible via a stroll along the yellow-marked trail from Velvary.