The Czech Republic is home to more than 2000 castles, fortresses, and ruins, giving it the highest castle density in Europe. It’s a true paradise for lovers of medieval history and beautifully preserved architecture. Southern Bohemia, in particular, is known for some of the country’s most iconic castles, including the enchanting Blatná Castle. Surrounded by a moat, this fairytale water castle features rooms that each tell their own story and is a must-visit on any trip to Czechia. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting Blatná Castle.
History of Blatná Castle, Czech Republic
Blatná Castle is located in South Bohemia, a region of the Czech Republic known for its historic towns, castles and beautiful nature. The castle is located in the town of Blatná, amid green forests and charming villages, making it an ideal destination for lovers of history and nature.
Blatná Castle has a long and rich history dating back to the 13th century. According to legends, the original inhabitants were Templars, who are said to have founded the castle around 1200. Over the centuries, Blatná has been owned by several noble families, each of whom left their mark on its construction and design. Because of this, the castle, originally composed mainly of wood, was gradually transformed into a stone fortress.
Since 1798, Blatná has been owned by the Hildprandt family. However, during the communist regime in the 1940s, the castle was expropriated and came into the hands of the state. Only in 1999, thanks to Czech restitution legislation, did the family finally get the castle back. Today, Blatná Castle is once again privately owned and lovingly maintained by the family as cultural heritage. More info on the history of the castle can be found on the official website.
Visit Blatná Castle in the Czech Republic
Discover everything you need to know before visiting Blatná Castle. Not only is the castle itself impressive, but the gardens are also worth a visit. Count on about 2 to 4 hours to fully explore this historic castle and its surroundings.
TRAVEL TIP: If you like castles, be sure to visit Cesky Krumlov. You will find one of the largest castles in the world: castle Hluboka. Here you can read about the best things to do in Cesky Krumlov!
Tours of Blatná Castle
Blatná Castle offers several tours that take you through the history and architecture of the castle. The tours are available in multiple languages, including English and German. You will learn more about the influence of noble families and how the castle developed over the centuries. Depending on the time of year, you can take a regular tour or themed tour.
Themed tours and events
One of the reasons why Blatná Castle is a unique experience is its varied themed tours and events. The owner and his team are committed to providing attractive, fun experiences for the public. And this all year round. Below are some examples of events:
- Kids Tour: An interactive tour especially for children, with stories and games that bring the castle’s history to life.
- Christmas tour: During the winter period, Blatná Castle offers special Christmas tours highlighting the traditions of different countries. In each room you will see how Christmas is celebrated in those different countries. These tours are inspired by the international experiences of the Hildprandt family. In addition to the tours, there is an atmospheric Christmas market in the courtyard where you can buy local delicacies and crafts.
- Easter tour: The castle also organizes themed tours during the Easter period. As with the Christmas tours, traditional Easter traditions from various cultures are highlighted here. A very fun way to discover the castle!
On the official website of Blatná Castle you will find an up-to-date overview of all scheduled events and tours.
Castle Gardens of Blatná
The park surrounding the castle is an oasis of peace and nature and is open all year round. It is a nice place to take a walk in green surroundings and very popular with locals. You can even spot fallow deer roaming freely among the trees here. The animals are used to people and therefore dare to get very close. Throughout the year (seasonal), the grassy square also hosts several fun events such as theater shows or a vintage car event. In addition, the park also offers walks with alpacas, a unique experience for young and old.
Things to do in Blatná Castle: hiking with alpacas
Blatná Castle is one of the first places in the Czech Republic where you can take an interactive walk with alpacas. During this 90-minute tour, you get to learn more about alpacas, walk with the alpacas and feed them. Walks happen only during the summer months between 08:00 and 10:00 in the morning and 17:00 and 19:00 in the evening. Booking in advance is recommended.
Ticket prices Blatná Castle
- A guided tour of the castle (in English or German) costs 350 CZK for adults and 250 CZK for youths and seniors.
- A ticket for entry to the park is 50 CZK and valid for a full day.
You can buy a ticket on site or reserve your tour online (the English-language tours can fill up quickly). For entrance to the park, visitors can purchase tickets on site.
Opening hours Blatná Castle
Like the price of admission, the opening hours for the castle and gardens vary. The castle is open at the times listed below (depending on the season):
- July & August (high season): Monday to Sunday and holidays from 09:00 to 18:00.
- May, June and September (mid-season): Tuesday through Sunday and holidays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- April, October and November: weekends and holidays only from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (November to 4:00 p.m.).
- December (Christmas period): on weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
You can visit the park and castle gardens of Blatná all year round, though. More specifically, at the following times:
- Mid-March to mid-October: daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Mid-October to mid-March: daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
How to visit Blatná castle
Blatná Castle is located in the beautiful region of South Bohemia. From capital Prague it is about an hour and a half away by car. But you can also explore the Czech Republic by train. From Prague you travel in about 2.5 hours by train to Blatna Castle with one transfer. The train station is a 15-minute walk from the castle. If you’re coming from České Budějovice, the largest city in South Bohemia, the drive takes about an hour.
Best time to visit Czech Republic
Spring (April to June) and summer (July to September) are the best times to visit Castle Blatná in the Czech Republic. The park is in full bloom, the weather is sunny and the longer days offer more time to explore the area. For a unique atmosphere, the Christmas and Easter periods are also recommended. Then you can enjoy a local Christmas or Easter market organized after your visit to the castle.
Do you have more questionsn about Blatná Castle in the Czech Republic? Let us know in a comment below! Looking for more information about your next trip? Please do not hesitate to contact us or send an email to info@snoezelsontheroad.com
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