Vrchovany: Folk Architecture and Building History

Vrchovany preserves a wealth of original folk architecture. The Chapel of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the landscape around Berkovský vrch, and the riding activities at Farma Vrchovany each offer a different focus. The ruins of Starý Berštejn Castle add a distinct cultural and historical highlight, with a tower that offers far-reaching views. You can therefore explore building history, the landscape, and horse riding as different themes during your stay.

Folk Architecture and the Chapel of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary

A specific example of sacred architectural history is the Chapel of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, which, together with its associated land, is protected as a historic monument. It is a central, plastered masonry building with a regular octagonal floor plan, situated on elevated ground southeast of the village of Vrchovany. The present-day Late Baroque chapel was built in 1801, possibly by enlarging an original 17th-century building. Its history may therefore date back further than its Late Baroque form.

In October 2021, the chapel was described as dilapidated and without windows. Check its condition and access before visiting.

Ruins of Starý Berštejn Castle

Starý Berštejn is a prominent castle ruin dating from the 15th century, on the basaltic Berkovský vrch. Jindřich Hlaváč of Dubá had it built shortly after 1400. The ruin is classified as an immovable cultural monument and has been protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic since 1958. Starý Bernštejn lies on a yellow-marked hiking trail. The tower of the ruin offers far-reaching views. Visits can be arranged with the castle’s leaseholder; check access locally before your visit.

Landscape around Berkovský vrch

Vrchovany lies on the southwestern slope of Berkovský vrch; the mountain is within the municipality’s cadastral area. Berkovský vrch is mostly covered with pine and spruce forests. By contrast, maple, lime, and beech trees grow on the scree slopes. The landscape areas described therefore also differ in their vegetation: conifers dominate most of the forest, while the listed deciduous species grow on the scree slopes.

Horse Farm and Riding Activities

A horse farm has been based in Vrchovany since 1991. The main focus at Farma Vrchovany is breeding Haflingers. The farm offers lunge training with horses for beginners. More experienced riders can go on rides in the countryside; these must be arranged directly with the provider before your visit. The activities therefore vary by experience level: lunge training is for beginners, while the rides are for more experienced riders.

By prior arrangement, Farma Vrchovany also offers a dressage arena, a show-jumping course, and a free-jumping area. If you plan to use any of these facilities, allow for the required advance arrangement.

Climbing in the Area

The Skály u Nového Berštejna climbing area offers another activity. It can be reached from the Nový Berštejn and Vrchovany bus stops, and, if necessary, from Dubá. These access points provide practical guidance for planning your trip; Dubá is an additional option only if needed.

Discover more destinations: Ralsko, Skalice U České Lípy, Beškov, Dubnice Pod Ralskem, Bohatice U Zákup, Skalka U Doks, Svojkov, Radvanec

For the broader travel overview: Okres Česká Lípa.