Dobrovice: In the Footsteps of Sugar

Sugar is part of Dobrovice’s history: the area is considered the birthplace of sugar beet cultivation in the Czech Republic, and sugar has been produced continuously in the town since 1831. Museums, a tour of the industrial distillery and excursion routes offer different perspectives on the subject. There is also a historic complex east of the main square, as well as destinations for a cycling or walking excursion.

Sugar Heritage at the Dobrovická muzea

The Dobrovická muzea are dedicated to sugar production, distilling, sugar beet cultivation and the history of Dobrovice. A guided tour includes exhibitions on sugar production, distilling and sugar beet cultivation. This offers several perspectives on the importance of sugar to the area, rather than reducing it to industrial production alone.

A separate tour takes visitors through the Tereos TTD, a.s. industrial distillery in Dobrovice. During the molasses campaign, visitors aged six and over can tour the distillery and learn more about alcohol production. The period is stated as February to August; however, the campaign may shift depending on raw material stocks. The tour lasts about 90 minutes, and advance booking is required. Check the current dates and reservation conditions before planning your visit.

Church and Observation Tower

East of the main square, the Church of St. Bartholomew, together with the former cemetery and its enclosing wall, forms a unified complex. The church, cemetery and enclosure belong together as an ensemble. Those interested in the town’s historic character will find a different focus here than in the museums: the emphasis is on the architectural complex rather than sugar and production.

The town hall observation tower is open on weekdays during the information center’s opening hours. Groups can also visit on weekends by arrangement. A digital SmartGuide, acquired in 2023 with support from the Středočeský kraj, guides visitors around Dobrovice. Check in advance whether the guide is currently available, and arrange a weekend visit to the observation tower for your group beforehand.

Compare Cycling Routes and Excursions

The routes differ considerably in length and character. The 11-kilometer circular route “Dobrovice – Vinařice – Chloumek – Boží Voda – Bojetice – Dobrovice” starts and ends at Palackého náměstí. It is rated as moderately difficult and runs mostly along paved paths. This gives you a specific option for planning an excursion from the main square.

The 18-kilometer route “Z Dobrovice do Jabkenické obory a zpět” starts and ends in Dobrovice. It runs mostly along farm tracks, and partly along paved paths and roads; the route description advises extra caution. The 25-kilometer cycling tour “Svatojiřským lesem” starts at Palackého náměstí and ends at the Dobrovická muzea. It is described as an easy excursion and is suitable for all types of bicycles. The varying lengths and details about the terrain and difficulty can help you choose a route that suits your planned excursion. Check current route conditions before setting out.

Outdoor Swimming Pool and Accommodation in Dobrovice

The town operates an outdoor swimming pool on its outskirts, with an outdoor concrete pool. The facilities include lawns and trees, refreshments, toilets and an outdoor shower. On August 17, 2026, the pool water was assessed as suitable for swimming. Check current opening information and the latest water assessment before visiting.

Hotel Radnice offers accommodation in the center of Dobrovice. Check prices and availability before booking. You can then plan your accommodation around the interests that will shape your stay: sugar and industrial history, the town’s historic character or one of the routes starting in Dobrovice.

Discover more destinations: Skorkov, Krásná Ves, Kobylnice, Jizerní Vtelno, Belá Pod Bezdezem, Řepov, Mečeříž, Kosořice.

Go to the broader travel overview: Okres Mladá Boleslav.