Chotenov – two settlement areas, sweeping views

The municipality of Chotěnov is characterized by two separate residential areas, a north–south depression in the terrain, and changing landscapes of meadows and woodland. It also offers local history, sweeping views from Golgota, and a 25-kilometer circular cycling route. You can get to know Chotěnov through a range of interests—from historical connections to scenery and outdoor activity.

Two residential areas, varied landscapes

The municipality comprises the separate residential areas of Chotěnov and Olšany, divided by a depression running north to south. Meadows shape the landscape near Prťava. Toward Chotovice, around Škrabka and Na Kopanicích, the meadows give way to woodland. The settlement pattern and changing landscape give the municipality its distinctive character.

If you’re looking for accommodation, choosing a clear priority can help with planning: Will your trip focus mainly on local history, scenic views, or cycling?

Historical connections in Chotěnov and Olšany

Chotěnov was first mentioned in 1347 in a charter by Breslau Bishop Přeclav z Pogorelly. An earlier historical reference is recorded for Olšany: in 1167, Vyšehrad provost Hroznata gave the village to the Premonstratensians of Litomyšl. The dates refer to different events—the first mention of Chotěnov and the donation of Olšany.

Religious ceremonies may occasionally take place in the chapels of Chotěnov and Olšany. A specific time-bound note applies to the Chapel of the Holy Trinity in Chotěnov: according to an entry updated on March 11, 2018, only a pilgrimage Mass was celebrated there. If you’re planning to attend a service, check the current religious schedule.

Golgota, Voštice, and the surrounding area

The Golgota hill rises to 515 m. In good weather, the view extends over the Chrudim region, the Krkonoše Mountains, the Orlické Mountains, the mountains above Kladsko, the Hrubý Jeseník range with Praděd, and the towns of Litomyšl and Polička. A protected area lies below the hill, within the municipality’s cadastral territory.

The historic Voštice road runs along the edge of the terrain on the western side of Olšany. Panoramic views open up from the forest above Voštice. At Golgota, the focus is on the 515 m viewpoint and distant vistas; at Voštice, the historic route of the road and views from the forest above shape the landscape experience.

The protected area of Toulovcovy Maštale is near Chotěnov. Covering 1,083.6 hectares, it lies between Budislav, Proseč, and Nové Hrady. A dense network of marked trails makes the area accessible and allows for circular walks. This nearby area, with its designated hiking trails, adds another option for exploring the landscape around the municipality.

Cycling through Chotěnov and Olšany

Cycling route 8558 is a 25 km circular route that passes through Chotěnov and Olšany. If you’re planning to ride it, check the current signage and trail surface conditions before setting out, as both can change. Along with the views and historical connections, the route offers another way to decide what kind of trip you’d like to take.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Horní Újezd, Sádek, Korouhev, Rohozná U Poličky, Leitomischl, Dětřichov U Moravské Třebové, Kunčina, Dolní Újezd.

For the overview of the wider region, see: Svitavy District.