Explore Enchanting Private Castles and Chateaus Now Welcoming Tourists

Dobříš Castle, Boskovice, Karlova Koruna and Kost or Blatná Castles

Rococo-style Dobříš Castle, associated with the Colloredo-Mansfeld family, located in Central Bohemia, welcomes guests from Wednesday to Sunday. The castle offers an unusual experience as visitors can explore its interiors using an audio guide. Additionally, there is an exhibition taking place in the orangery and a gallery showcasing a collection of cars. A stroll through the beautifully designed French park is also highly recommended. Both the garden and the interior displays have been through extensive and successful renovations.

Another must-visit location is Karlova Koruna Castle located in Chlumec nad Cidlinou. This castle, belonging to the Kinsky family of Dal Borgo, features amazing interiors and a recently renovated riding hall that highlights horse breeding. It will be open from April Wednesday to Sunday. The Kost Castle, situated in the scenic Bohemian Paradise and known for its armor display and medieval torture chamber, also invites visitors five days a week in April, specifically from Wednesday to Sunday.

Another set of publicly accessible buildings belong to the Mensdorf-Pouilly family. History enthusiasts and monument lovers can find their way to Boskovice, where they can visit an Empire-style castle furnished with elegant decor (open in April for pre-booked groups and from May on weekends and Fridays). They can also explore the castle located above the town, accessible on weekends and holidays in April.

If you’re in South Bohemia, you can also tour the Fairytale water castle Blatná, owned by the Hildprandt family. They welcome visitors to explore their stunning interiors on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays in April, and every day except Mondays starting in May. Interestingly, small dog breeds are allowed on tours. Additionally, the popular castle park, which has a herd of fallow deer and a few alpacas, is open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, free of charge.

A wide range of experiences is available at Žďár nad Sázavou, also owned by the Kinsky family. Visitors can enjoy not only the castle and the former monastery but also the interactive New Generation Museum, featuring cutting-edge technology, allowing you to spend an entire day immersed in history.

Stránov, Chyše, and the Enigmatic Houska Castles

Starting in April, the charming Stránov Castle, located near Mladá Boleslav, will open its doors on weekends. It features beautifully restored interiors alongside an exhibition of dolls and baby carriages, and there’s also the mysterious Houska Castle, known for its legends about strange forces and being a supposed gateway to hell. Both castles are under the ownership of the Simonek family.

In April, Chyše Castle will also be open on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, and is owned by the couple The Lažanskis, located in the Karlovy Vary region. Apart from the stunning interiors of this aristocratic residence, the chateau brewery is another attraction where visitors can enjoy a drink. Furthermore, the Baroque chateau Dětenice in the Jičín region is home to a famous medieval tavern and will be open to guests on weekends in April.

Easter Activities at Castle Exhibitions and Gardens

This Easter, from the 18th to the 21st of April 2025, visitors can explore the castle exhibitions at the Lichtenstein Estates in Velké Meziříčí, which will be decorated with beautiful floral arrangements. Starting in May, the family residence of the Kolowrat family in Rychnov nad Kněžnou will welcome visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, while Dolní Kounice Castle and its nearby chateau will be open on weekends in May, offering a variety of tours and activities. Other historical sites, such as the parks at the Zierotins family castle in Bludov and the Sternberg family castle in Častolovice in eastern Bohemia, will also be accessible, the latter featuring a beloved small zoo.

New for This Season: Neustupov Chateau

This season brings an exciting new addition: the opening of the Renaissance-style, later Neo-Gothic Neustupov Castle located in Votick, Central Bohemia. Until now, it has only been opened on rare occasions. However, its owner, Michal Farnik, has devoted recent years to repairs and is finally ready to welcome the public.

Days of Private Castles and Chateaux 2025

This year, there are also plans underway for the Days of Private Castles and Châteaux, which will feature unique tours led by the owners, concerts, and access to areas that are usually private or closed off to regular visitors. History enthusiasts should mark their calendars for this noteworthy event: May 23-25, 2025.

Fresh Destinations and Special Openings

• Neustupov Castle (Benešov Region):
  This year, the castle opens to the public for the very first time, offering visitors a rare glimpse into its storied past.

• Private Castle Days 2025:
  Organized by private owners, these days feature special tours, concerts, and exclusive access to areas that are normally off-limits.

Notable Castles and Chateaus

• Dobříš Chateau:

  • Tours and Exhibitions: Enjoy guided tours through the chateau’s interiors, visit an exhibition in the orangery, and check out a gallery featuring classic cars.

  • Landscaped Surroundings: Wander through a charming French park.

  • Visiting Hours: Open to guests from Wednesday through Sunday.

• Karlova Koruna Castle:
  Experience beautifully furnished interiors alongside a newly renovated riding hall that now hosts an exhibition about horse breeding.

• Blatná Castle:

  • Interior Splendor and Wildlife: Admire stunning interiors and explore a widely adored castle park, home to fallow deer and alpacas.

  • Pet-Friendly Perk: Visitors are welcome to bring along smaller dog breeds.

• Houska Castle:
  Known for its legends of a “path to hell,” this castle presents an enticing program for mystery enthusiasts.

Unique Experiences and Modern Interpretations

• New Generation Museum (Žďár nad Sázavou):
  A blend of historical narratives and modern technology, this museum uses state-of-the-art audio and video tools to bring the past to life.

• Easter Celebrations in Velké Meziříčí:
  During the festive season, exhibitions are adorned with exquisite flower arrangements, adding an extra layer of charm to the tours.