From Ústí nad Orlicí you can set out on trips to the near surroundings. The individual goals can be reached by foot, bike or car. Whichever direction you take, your trip is bound to be inspiring, informative and enjoyable. Learn something about the history of dynasty families, admire a UNESCO site, enjoy adventure in the natural labyrinth or venture into the maze of old castle corridors. Surmount some hills to admire the beauty and picturesque quality of the local landscape, or savour healing spring water in the midst of deep woods. On your journeys in the surroundings, you will surely discover other interesting and beautiful spaces.
The original castle may have been founded by Přemysl Ottokar II in the middle of the 13th century in the colonisation period. It was abandoned by the end of the 16th century. Only remnants of vaults and palace cross-walls have been preserved to this day. On the east, the ruin is separated from today’s village by a huge moat and a rampart. At the partially preserved castle walls, there is a viewing platform offering a stunning view of the surroundings.
The chapel is a place of pilgrimage hidden in deep woods not far from Dolní Dobrouč. It was built in 1866 by Bernard Dušek as a gesture of gratitude for his repeated recovery from a severe illness. He is said to have returned to health after drinking the water quelling from the spring near today’s chapel. Whether you come by foot or on a bike, you can refresh yourselves with the spring water, take rest on the pavilion benches and contemplate amidst the peaceful woods. From there you can go on to Lanšperk, Dolní Dobrouč or Dolní Houžovec. The chapel is located roughly 8 km from Ústí nad Orlicí (on the red trail in the direction of the flying field).
The Javorka park is located in Česká Třebová not far from the Nové náměstí square. It was founded in 1885 in the chine under the slopes of the Robův kopec hill, which may be used for skiing. In the lower part of the park, you will find a small pond with a recently restored statue of the water spirit known as “vodník” in Czech in the middle. This park facility is suitable for relaxation.
The maze inspired by John Amos Comenius’ work Labyrinth of the World and Paradise of the Heart is awaiting your visit. Try to find your way through the hornbeam aisles, get to the centre of the maze and then go out again without getting lost.
The origins of the castle date back to the last quarter of the 13th century. To this day, only remnants of the fortification, palace and tower have been preserved.
The original castle was built in the 2nd half of the 13th century. During the Thirty Years’ War it was plundered multiple times. It dilapidated shortly after. Today, you will find there traces of farm buildings, a wagon-vaulted palace cellar and remains of the entrance gateway and fortification.
The castle used to stand on a steep slope above the Divoká Orlice river. To this day, only its ruins have been preserved. It used to be the most robust and solid castle in the whole region. Among his owners were rulers such as Charles IV and George of Poděbrady. It is accessible with a guide.
The newly renovated château in Potštejn offers a plenty of experiences and cultural events, such as standard guided tours in the interior, the apparition exhibition “Bubákov”, funny guided tours in baroque costumes for children and adults, night guided tours with a slightly erotic touch, the fairy tale exhibition “Pohádkov”, the château confectionery, accommodation in the château, the château park, wedding ceremonies and a lot more.
On account of its uniqueness, the renaissance château decorated with sgraffiti was listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. Its origins date back to 1568–81. Part of the entire complex are farm buildings (mostly from the baroque period) and a large garden with a natural amphitheatre.
The Litice castle is situated at the foothills of the Eagle Mountains above the picturesque village of the same name lying on the Divoká Orlice river.
The château park Peliny is situated in Choceň behind the château on the left bank of the Tichá Orlice river. The park has an area of 3,31 ha and is characterised by a free layout of the greenery, including many glades, alleys and vistas. Thanks to this area, Choceň is often referred to as “a town within a park”.
The English style park was probably founded in the first half of the 19th century in the place of the former baroque French garden. It is decorated with a stone sundial, a gloriette and an empire pool. In the east part of the park, there is a prismatic tower, which is part of the original Gothic castle fortification. In the south part, you will find the burial place of the last owners (the House of Parish). The park serves as the town’s relaxation zone.
