Stvolínky – Castle, Trails and Koňský rybník

Stvolínky is a destination for travellers who want to combine cultural history with a landscape of water, sandstone and marked trails. The focal point is Stvolínky Castle, whose Renaissance and early Baroque building history reaches back into the history of the town. In addition, there is the 9-hectare Koňský rybník, the Smrtka viewpoint and trails that link several historical points. If you are looking for accommodation, you can assess Stvolínky according to the desired balance of a castle visit, a walk, the landscape and rail travel.

The castle and local history

The oldest historically documented written mention of Stvolínky dates from 1197. A Gothic fortress was built on the site of the former Stvolínky manor house. Stvolínky Castle was rebuilt in the Renaissance style between 1520 and 1538. The Renaissance building in Stvolínky, which was badly damaged during the Thirty Years’ War, was subsequently converted into an early Baroque castle between 1655 and 1663. This makes it possible to trace at one location how the building’s history developed over several periods. While restoration work was underway, Stvolínky Castle was accessible during various cultural events. This timeframe is part of the castle’s history and should be considered separately from current information when planning a visit. Another historical landmark is Kostel Všech Svatých. The church is mentioned in the 14th century and is considered one of the oldest churches in Bohemia. Its subterranean level contains a crypt with some of the former owners of the estate.

Koňský rybník and the Smrtka viewpoint

Koňský rybník is a 9-hectare through-flow pond used for fishing. Above the pond, near Stvolínky, the Smrtka viewpoint is situated on a sandstone rock formation. The unusual name is connected with an old spring custom in which an effigy of Death was thrown into the water. The site thus combines a specific landscape feature with a traditional custom.

Marked trails and excursion destinations

A red-marked hiking trail runs about 150 metres from Stvolínky Castle and passes Kostel Všech Svatých. A branch from the red-marked trail between Stvolínky and Holany leads to the Smrtka viewpoint. For planning your day, this means that the castle, church and viewpoint can be considered as different focal points along the same marked trails, without combining them into a single attraction. Ronov can also be reached on foot from Stvolínky. Ronov has remnants of a preserved scree forest and extensive stone fields that are almost devoid of vegetation in places on the slopes and summit. This landscape impression differs significantly from the water surface of Koňský rybník and complements the cultural and historical destinations with a geologically shaped environment.

Travel and choice of location

Stvolínky railway station is integrated into the public transport system. It is located on line 087 between Litoměřice horní nádraží and Česká Lípa. For travel planning, it is also important that the Stvolínky station building is accessible to wheelchair users. When choosing accommodation in Stvolínky, you can therefore consider not only the sights but also whether rail connections play a role in your journey. If you would like to explore additional destinations for your travel plans alongside Stvolínky, you can also find Svor, Prachen, Ralsko, Stráz Pod Ralskem, Noviny Pod Ralskem, Radvanec, Sosnová U České Lípy and Böhmisch Leipa.

For the higher-level travel overview: Okres Česká Lípa.