Račice on the Berounka: pottery history and nature

Račice combines a distinctive location on the Berounka with an unusually specific local history. The village lies on a slope on the river’s right bank, in a landscape typical of the Křivoklátsko region. Nature also has a clearly defined connection here: rare woodland orchids grow in the forests around the Žloukava stream. This brings together different interests for planning a trip: scenery, nature watching, local history and getting there. You can decide which aspect of Račice you want to shape your stay.

A history that goes beyond the year of its founding

Račice was first mentioned in 1556. At that time, four potters founded the settlement. Their work was tied to Křivoklát Castle by a precisely quantified obligation: every week, they had to deliver twelve pots and twelve lamps there. This history connects the number of founders and their craft with a specific obligation. The fact that equal numbers of both goods were required makes this weekly duty easy to picture.

The Berounka setting and woodland orchids by the Žloukava

The slope on the river’s right bank and the landscape typical of the Křivoklátsko region give Račice a clear geographical setting. The Žloukava stream offers another connection with nature: rare woodland orchids grow in the forests around it. These features differ in scale: the Berounka describes the village’s location, while the orchids draw attention to a particular woodland area by the named stream. If you are especially interested in plants, the Žloukava is the specific natural feature to look for; the river setting places Račice in its landscape.

Sights in Račice

The Boží muka wayside shrine on the village square is one of Račice’s sights. Other historical points of interest include the remains of a medieval settlement in the Stříbrné údolí area and the former princely forester’s lodge, Kolouch. These named places add to the history of the potters: the monument on the village square, the settlement remains and the former forester’s lodge each offer a different focus for exploring the village.

Plan your journey and accommodation

Račice can be reached on foot via a yellow-marked hiking trail. As trail markings can change, check the current route before setting out. The 2026 timetable lists Račice nad Berounkou as a stop on railway line 174 between Rakovník and Beroun; check the timetable before travelling, as train services can change. The train and hiking trail answer different planning questions: in one case, the right train connection matters; in the other, it is the route of the markings.

If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, let the focus of your trip guide you: local history, nature by the Žloukava, or travelling by train or on foot. You can then compare hotel offers according to your personal requirements.

Discover more destinations: Pochvalov, Rakovník, Řeřichy, Bdín, Hořovičky, Mšec, Chotěšov, Pšovlky.

Go to the regional travel overview: Okres Rakovník.