Úhlejov: Stream Valleys, Cycling Route and Local History

Úhlejov lies on the southern slope of Zvičina Hill, between the Hornoúhlejovský and Dolnoúhlejovský streams. The terrain is undulating and slopes distinctly to the south; parallel valleys formed by three streams shape the landscape. Two scales are therefore useful for getting your bearings: the hillside location on Zvičina and the finer network of stream valleys. If you plan your trip around specific landscape features, Úhlejov can be described in terms of its terrain and waterways—not just its name.

Streams and Landscape

The municipal area is drained by three streams: Lukaveček, Trotinka and Úhlejovský potok. Úhlejovský potok flows into Bystrý potok; the streams are predominantly natural. The waterway network therefore includes both the three named streams and a specific confluence as points of reference. A local spring in a nearby meadow is described as one of the five sources of the Bystřice River.

Cycling Route and Hiking Trail

For cyclists, Cycling Route 4086 provides a specific point of reference. It passes through Hořice, Miletín, Úhlejov, Třebihošť, Zvičina, Horní Brusnice, Mostek and Debrné. This places Úhlejov along a longer route whose stops are named. The route may change, so check its current alignment before your ride.

A hiking trail runs past Horní mlýn and along the northeastern edge of the castle hill. Its location is defined by a mill and the edge of the terrain. While the cycling route is described by its number and the sequence of named places, two local landmarks provide points of reference for the hiking trail.

Chapel, Legend and Craftsmanship

The Chapel of Saint John of Nepomuk dates from 1816. Locals also call it the “Chapel of Saint Martin” because a relief of this saint adorns the gable. The local name thus refers to a specific architectural detail, while the dedication to John of Nepomuk and the year it was built place the chapel in its historical context.

The name of the tourist hike “Po stopách rytíře Zbyhoně” is also linked to local lore. It refers to a legend about the medieval castle complex on the castle hill; later, the place was known in local tradition as Šušpárek. Thus, alongside the surviving architectural detail of the chapel, stories about the former castle complex also form part of the town’s history.

Another historical focus is domestic weaving, which was widespread in Úhlejov in the 19th century. Kalmuk, a coarse fabric with a raised nap on both sides, was made there. This description of the material brings the craft tradition to life: it is not only about the work once carried out, but also the properties of the fabric produced there. Weaving and the legend thus complement the landscape and route features with two distinct perspectives on Úhlejov’s history.

Discover more destinations: Kozojedy, Šárovcova Lhota, Mladejov V Cechach, Sběř, Luzany U Jicína, Sekeřice, Volanice, Lazne Belohrad

For the broader travel overview: Okres Jičín.