On Saturday, 12th October 2024, together with our international researchers and their families, we embarked on a delightful day trip to explore the historic Castle Kost and the stunning Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj). Although the day began with a foggy autumn morning, the skies soon cleared, giving way to perfect sunny weather.
At 8:00 AM, our private bus departed from CZU, filled with anticipation for the day ahead. As we travelled through the picturesque Czech countryside, we were treated to the vibrant hues of the autumn landscape, which made the journey even more enjoyable.
Our first stop was Castle Kost, one of the best-preserved Gothic castles in the country, nestled in the scenic valleys of the Bohemian Paradise. During the guided tour, we wandered through the castle’s courtyards, marvelling at its robust defensive walls and learning about its fascinating history as an unconquered fortress. The tour also included a visit to the serene Chapel of St. Anne, a peaceful Gothic space steeped in centuries of history. We then explored the ground floor of the iconic Great White Tower, which provided a captivating insight into medieval life and the castle’s architectural ingenuity. After the tour, we enjoyed a pleasant lunch at the nearby Kost Restaurant.
Following our delicious lunch, we set off on the next part of our journey: a hike through the Bohemian Paradise, a UNESCO Geopark known for its dramatic sandstone formations. Starting from Hrubá Skála, we hiked through the rock formations, stopping at viewpoints to take in panoramic views of the 'rock city.'
Later, we were fortunate to arrive at Castle Valdštejn, which happened to be open to the public for free that day, allowing us to explore its impressive interiors and exteriors. As an unexpected bonus, it added a rich historical dimension to our trip.
On our way back to the bus, we discovered the hidden rock reliefs, which were carved between 1940 and 1978. These intricate carvings depict figures from Czech history and are accompanied by poetic verses, all etched into the rocks in the open air.
After several hours of hiking and exploring the magical Bohemian Paradise, we regrouped and began our journey back to CZU. Though the day was long, it was filled with awe-inspiring moments, as we immersed ourselves in the rich history of Castle Kost and the breathtaking beauty of the Bohemian Paradise.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all participants and look forward to sharing more such adventures in the future!