Romantic Castle Ruins on the Jizera River

An easy route along the Jizera River takes you through a romantic valley, with gentle ascents to the Zvířetice and Michalovice castle ruins. Beyond natural beauty, Mladá Boleslav provides cultural delights, including the Aviation Museum Metoděj Vlach and the essential Škoda Museum in this automotive hub.

Begin your journey from Bakov nad Jizerou station to the captivating Zvířetice Castle ruins. Unlike traditional tours, immerse yourself in the authentic remains and a virtual 3D video at the Podhradí information center. Sample local treats or find souvenirs at the pottery called Hrnčířský dvůr Zvířetice. Follow the scenic red hiking trail along the Jizera to discover the intriguing Michalovice Castle ruins. Admire the leaning Putna tower, offering panoramic views of the Jizera Valley, Loretto of Kosmonosy, and part of Mladá Boleslav.

• Interesting fact: Michalovice Castle ruins, like many others, has a treasure legend. Over the centuries, treasure hunters attempted to uncover it, using tactics like undermining and even explosives. A fateful explosion, however, tilted the tower and buried them. Ghostly apparitions are said to deter subsequent seekers. Surprisingly, the treasure was found in 1935 during renovations—a pouch with 470 silver coins from the Thirty Years’ War era.

As you reach Mladá Boleslav on the red trail, take a glass public elevator to the rocky promontory hosting the historic city center. Follow the Metal Trail—an interactive trail connecting all of Mladá Boleslav’s landmarks, crafted by an artistic blacksmith—to explore the city’s rich history and points of interest.

• Tip for you: The word ‘Škoda’ is everywhere in the city, even at mealtime. Visit Café Restaurant Václav in the Škoda Museum or, at the square, don’t miss the ‘…škoda nezajít’ café. Enjoy excellent coffee, homemade pastries, and perhaps have breakfast or a light lunch. For Czech classics, head to Jihočeská Hostěnice nearby. Beer enthusiasts shouldn’t overlook the craft brewery Garp in Bakov nad Jizerou.

At the end of your journey, the river, your constant companion, manifests again at the Old Town Square in Mladá Boleslav through an interactive fountain resembling the Jizera River. Returning to the starting point is effortlessly facilitated by public transportation.