Chotěšov

Chotěšov combines a significant monastery, vibrant Bohemian traditions and a variety of paths through the countryside. This makes the town a suitable base for a trip where culture and walks go hand in hand. Those looking for accommodation in Chotěšov can tailor their stay to their preferred focus: the monastery and historic buildings shape the town’s history, while the Radbuza, Křížový vrch and Pinky reveal other sides of the surrounding area.

Chotěšov Monastery and Historical Discoveries

Chotěšov Monastery was founded at the beginning of the 13th century by Blessed Hroznata. Today, it is a national cultural monument and comprises a former convent rebuilt in the late Baroque style. The monastery is open to the public; guided tours, exhibitions and other cultural events make it an important destination for anyone who wants to get to know the town rather than simply pass through it.

The monastery also houses the Pilsen Region Firefighting Museum, which opened in 2013. One of its most important exhibits is a restored and operational PS-6 Flader motor pump. The Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary provides another historical highlight and is one of Chotěšov’s significant historic buildings. In the town, the column with the statue of Saint John of Nepomuk also commemorates the year 1700: it was erected at that time by Abbot and Provost Ondřej Fabritius. The restored statue of the same saint was moved to a representative location near Chotěšov Monastery.

Traditions and Special Event Days

The Staročeské máje festivities add a distinctive cultural character. They have been held in Chotěšov since 1967 and take place approximately every two years. On the second day, the festivities continue in the monastery garden with the dances Chodské kolečko, Špacírka and, finally, Česká beseda. This timing is important when planning a trip because the event does not take place every year. In addition, Běh Chotěšovem offers an annual cross-country race for all age groups.

Paths on Křížový vrch and Along the Radbuza

Several hiking trails in the vicinity of Chotěšov lead to Křížový vrch. There you will find a church and a 22-metre-high lookout tower. From the top, you can see the peaks of the Bohemian Forest, nearby Chotěšov with its monastery and the town of Stod. Several stops with information panels along the Stezka kolem Křížového vrchu lead to a former pilgrimage site with a church and a lookout tower. The two-kilometre circular route complements this trail with educational and play elements focused on forest fauna and flora.

Another, more water-oriented option is a walk to the weir on the Radbuza. It starts at Náměstí 1. máje and leads along Klášterní Street. Along the way, you can choose between an upper path with views of the Radbuza river valley and a path along the millrace. This choice turns the walk into a small decision between a scenic outlook and being close to the water.

Pinky: Ponds and a Landscape with a Special History

In the vicinity of Chotěšov, Pinky comprises the Velký rybník, Malý rybník and Šindlerák ponds. The area is used mainly for sport fishing and recreation. Its present-day landscape was formed as a result of coal mining at the Austria hard-coal mine and subsequent subsidence of rock and soil. Thus, a stay in Chotěšov brings together nature observation, leisure by the water and visible traces of the region’s industrial history.

Other Places in the Same Higher-Level Area

If you would like to compare other places for your trip planning in addition to Chotěšov, you can find Lisov, Oselce, Vlčtejn, Životice, Otěšice, Letiny, Drahkov and Borovy here.

For the higher-level travel overview: Plzeň-Jih.