Zruc Nad Sázavou – Castle, Sázava and Adventure Trails

Zruč nad Sázavou combines castle history with discoveries along the Sázava. Between the castle, the castle park and the adventure trails, culture, exercise and playful activities alternate. This creates a destination where you can combine a historical tour with a short walk through the park, a longer hike or an active route along the river.

Castle, Bailey and Town History

Two sightseeing tours are open to tourists in the south wing of Zruč nad Sázavou Castle. If you visit the castle, a car park is located about 200 metres away; the castle and information centre are also wheelchair accessible. East of the castle building, the complex of the Church of Povýšení sv. Kříže is located in the bailey area. It comprises the church, a mortuary chapel, as well as boundary and retaining walls.

Local and regional history is presented in several formats. The brick Hřbitovní kaple sv. Jakuba Většího is an Empire-style burial chapel with a crypt and was built in 1846. The Vodácké muzeum is located in Zručský dvůr, a former farm building belonging to the Schebek family. The interactive exhibition “Příběh řeky Sázavy” is housed in a former barn; the “Baťovská Zruč” portal presents personalities, objects, topics and documents relating to the history of the Baťa era and the subsequent shoemaking era in Zruč nad Sázavou. The topics thus range from sacred architectural history and the world of the river to the history of the shoemaking era; you can organise your cultural day according to your different interests.

Cycling, Hiking and Discoveries

The 3.8-kilometre-long Zručská cyklostezka runs along the Sázava for cyclists, inline skaters and pedestrians. It connects the new district of Zruč with the old district and continues to Domahoř. In winter, the route is also suitable for cross-country skiers. Those who prefer travelling on foot will find a two-kilometre educational trail in Zručský zámecký park, with 14 stops focusing on the park’s historical monuments and the history of the Schebek family, the last owners of the castle.

In the castle moat, the zábavně-naučná stezka rytíře Miloty z Kolowrat is aimed at children aged three and over. On the Stezka rytíře Miloty, visitors can try activities including axe throwing, archery, climbing a totem, crossing a horizontal beam, fishing and skittles. At Na Rybárně, the Naučná rybí stezka complements this offering with play elements, secret missions and puzzles; it also teaches about fish from rivers, ponds and streams. The experiences therefore differ considerably: one trail focuses on playful activities, while the other combines puzzles with the sharing of knowledge.

Views over Zruč nad Sázavou

For a hike with views, the seven-kilometre Zručská stezka to the rozhledna Babka begins in Zruč nad Sázavou. The Babka lookout tower is 24 metres high; from its viewing platform, you can look out over Zruč nad Sázavou and the surrounding area.

More Places for Planning Your Trip

For further trip planning, you can also explore Vidice, Vlačice, Kácov, Rataje Nad Sázavou, Úmonín, Okřesaneč, Bohdaneč and Semtěš.

For the overview of the wider area: Okres Kutná Hora.