The world of gaming comes alive in the Bohemian Paradise

Trosky may not belong to the Central Bohemia region, but it is closely connected to the game map. You can reach it by train (the nearest station is Borek pod Troskami), or by car – the loop route allows you to start anywhere with parking, such as by Vidlák Pond, Věžický Pond, or beneath Trosky itself.

We chose Vidlák, placing Trosky about halfway. It’s here that one of the key nighttime meetings between nobles and their secret allies takes place in the story. In reality, it’s a peaceful spot surrounded by forests – an ideal starting point for exploring the landscape that inspired the game and filmmakers alike.

From Vidlák, the route follows along Věžický Pond, famous from Czech films. The shores of the pond are the site of a key ambush in the story. Today, the area is peaceful, with views of the calm waters and surrounding rocks, making it perfect for quiet reflection.

• Interesting fact: Remember the traveling camp from the game? It was placed in the forest on the opposite shore. Though there’s no marked path, it’s worth recalling during your journey.

The route continues along the Golden Trail through Bohemian Paradise, passing Podsemínský Mill – where Jindřich meets the miller Krejzl. This shady character teaches Jindřich the basics of stealth and lockpicking. While the mill isn’t open to the public, it still stands as a reminder of the era that inspired the game world, and a marked tourist path runs nearby.

• Tip for you: A short detour takes you to the site of the former Semín settlement, where a long-awaited wedding takes place in the game’s story – turning into a dramatic event. Though little remains of the fort or village, the site is worth a visit as its home to Hradiště Semín, the largest known Celtic oppidum in Bohemia.

Next, you’ll reach Nebákov Mill, used as a hideout for smugglers in the game. In reality, it’s a Baroque building with a restaurant and accommodation, and offers natural swimming in summer.

• Tip for you: Above the mill, in the forest, lie the ruins of Nebákov Castle. In the game, it’s a bandit hideout, but the truth is more complex. The earthworks and moats remain, preserving the medieval atmosphere.

Continue along the Golden Trail from Svitačka crossroads to Troskovice, a village beneath the castle ruins. In the game, the local tavern plays a key role, filled with travelers and spies. Tavernkeeper Běta keeps order, while Jindřich meets an old friend and gets caught up in a brawl that leads to a night in the stocks. In real life, you’ll find Apolena Tavern – with a modern look but still a great spot before the climb to the castle.

• Interesting fact: The tavern is named after the nearby Apolena nature reserve. In the game, it’s a smugglers’ hideout and a place for secret meetings. Today, it’s a protected area with restricted access, so please respect the entry ban, though the game’s depiction remains part of the route’s atmosphere.

Trosky is the highlight of both the journey and the game’s story. Jindřich and Jan Ptáček try to access the fortress, but the distrustful lord and strong defenses stop them. The ruins with two towers, Panna and Baba, rise as a landmark over the landscape, offering stunning views whether you’re familiar with the game or visiting for the first time.

The entire route naturally connects real places with events from the game. While some locations have faded from memory or changed, their atmosphere remains. The story that unfolded in the game continues to echo in these places, in the landscape and in the minds of those who explore them.

What’s next?

If you have more time, don’t miss the Central Bohemian part of Bohemian Paradise. We recommend a trip to Mnichovo Hradiště, Příhrazské Rocks, or Komárovský Pond.