Vacov – Discover the Church, Trails and Javorník

Vacov combines local history, distinctive routes and winter experiences with small discoveries of regional everyday life. St. Nicholas Church north of the town centre, trails via Mladíkov and Javorník, winter sports and traditional baked goods. Those wishing to combine different types of day out will find in Vacov both a fixed cultural point of reference and trails with historical stops and winter activities.

St. Nicholas Church and Historical Traces

The complex of St. Nicholas Church lies north of the centre of Vacov. The pseudo-Gothic church was built in 1889–1890 to replace the inadequate predecessor church demolished in 1885. Inside or in connection with the church, historic bells from the 16th century are among the noteworthy details. The dating thus connects two periods: the bells date back to the 16th century, while the present church dates from the late 19th century. This gives Vacov a specific cultural point of reference for a stay that incorporates the history of the town alongside nature and activities.

Routes to Javorník and Through Mladíkov

The Spůlka Route passes through Mladíkov. There, visitors can see a hexagonal bell tower with an onion dome – a distinctive detail along the route. Another route leads from Vacov to Javorník and passes the listed Rotunda of St. Anthony of Padua. The rotunda dates from 1939 and was consecrated on 4 August 1940. The two routes therefore clearly differ in character: Mladíkov adds a distinctive architectural detail to the route, while the connection to Javorník combines the rotunda with panoramic views.

Javorník is home to the stone Klostermann Observation Tower, built in 1938. From Vacov, it can be reached via Rohanov and Lhota. The observation tower offers views of the Šumava Mountains and the inland region. This makes it possible to combine different priorities when planning: a cultural structure along the route, a historic observation tower and views across the landscape.

Winter, Bread and Local Traditions

In winter, ski lifts are available to visitors in Vacov. The ski slope in Javorník is groomed and illuminated for the popular night skiing. Another side of the town is represented by Pekárna Vacov, a traditional bakery from the Šumava foothills. Among its most popular and best-selling products are the “Šumava” and “Žitovec” breads, made from traditionally prepared rye sourdough.

Seasonal events are also among the documented impressions of Vacov and its surroundings. During Masopust 2025, a procession with 42 traditional, cheerful and original masks passed through Vacov and Vlkonice. The Mikulášská pouť in Vacov included market stalls with Mikuláš, devils and two angels. Such dates add their own accents alongside the routes and sights described as available year-round.

More Places for Your Travel Planning

When choosing your accommodation in Vacov, you can decide whether you primarily want to include the town itself, cultural stops along a route, the observation tower on Javorník or winter activities. Find more destinations in the surrounding area here: Bušanovice, Strážný, Ktis, Mahouš, Libotyne, Strunkovice Nad Blanicí, Dvory U Lažišť and Svihov.

For the higher-level travel overview: Prachatice District.