Rejštejn: Gold History on the Otava and Losenice Rivers

Rejštejn lies in the Otava Valley, where the Losenice flows into the Otava. Its historical development can be traced back to gold panning and gold mining; in 1584, the settlement was elevated to the status of a royal mining town. If you would like to combine history, trails and landscapes in one destination with your family, Rejštejn offers several different ways to do so.

Gold History and Historical Traces

The Baroque Church of St. Bartholomew was initially built by miners in 1579. It features a carved acanthus altar and a Gothic bell dating from the late 14th century. There is also a statue of Saint John of Nepomuk from 1883 on the road to Kvilda. Several of Karel Klostermann’s novels and stories are associated with Rejštejn.

The historical diversity also includes the Spaun family villa in Rejštejn. It dates from 1904, was designed by Leopold Bauer and can only be viewed from a distance. Since the villa can only be viewed from a distance, the focus here is on its exterior architecture; the interiors are not part of this visit. Another cultural highlight is provided by the iridescent Art Nouveau glassware from the glassworks in Klášterský Mlýn, which became world-famous. The Frauenau Glass Museum is located in the wider region around Rejštejn.

Hiking Trails, Cycling Route and Connections

A red-marked hiking trail leads from Rejštejn after two kilometers to the former timber rafters’ inn K Myším Domkům and continues in the direction of Čeňkova Pila. Cycle Route No. 331 between Sušice and Kvilda passes through Rejštejn. Bus services to Sušice, Srní and Modrava provide connections to other places. The two kilometers to the former timber rafters’ inn form a clearly defined first section; the continuation toward Čeňkova Pila extends the hike.

The ascent to Maierova Skála begins in the center of Rejštejn. As a round trip, it is approximately 2 km long and involves an elevation gain of about 160 m. This makes it possible to choose an excursion whose starting point, approximate distance and elevation gain are clearly described. The combination of the approximate length and elevation gain helps assess the tour not only by its number of kilometers but also by its ascent.

Water on the Otava and Regional Excursions

The Čeňkova Pila–Rejštejn paddling section on the Otava is suitable only for experienced paddlers with appropriate equipment and gear. The national technical monument Čeňkova Pila is also located in the vicinity of Rejštejn. Its preserved interior is accessible as part of a guided tour.

The Surrounding Landscape

The mountains of Snĕžne jámy, Huťská hora, Březník and Vysoký are located around Rejštejn. They complement the town’s history with additional destinations in the surrounding landscape, while Rejštejn itself is defined by its location on the Otava and Losenice rivers.

For further research, you can also view Hradešice, Javor, Mysliv, Mokrosuky, Ostruzno, Velhartice, Horní Staňkov and Tužice.

For the higher-level travel overview: Klatovy District.