Starý Plzenec: Nature Trail, Sacred Buildings and Sparkling Wine

Starý Plzenec brings together hiking, archaeological and sacred sites, nature and wine. When looking for a hotel in Starý Plzenec, start by deciding whether the nature trail, individual buildings or a visit to BOHEMIA SEKT will be your main focus. The options differ in terms of time required, access and whether reservations may be needed.

On the Staroplzenecká Nature Trail

The Staroplzenecká Nature Trail begins and ends in the square in Starý Plzenec, by the Church of St. John the Baptist. It is a circular route from Starý Plzenec via Sedlec and back, covering 10 km. Allow about three hours for the hike. The terrain is easy, with some variation in elevation. The route passes significant historical, cultural, architectural and natural monuments in Starý Plzenec. Check trail conditions before setting out.

Hillfort and Sacred Buildings

On the acropolis of the Hůrka hillfort are the excavated foundations of the Church of St. Lawrence. In the eastern forecourt are the excavated foundations of the Church of the Holy Cross. The two sites offer different points of interest: one at the acropolis, the other in the eastern forecourt.

The Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Starý Plzenec is an immovable cultural monument and contains rare Gothic frescoes. Another notable feature is the Romanesque Rotunda of Saints Peter and Paul, one of the oldest fully preserved sacred buildings of its kind in Czechia. From Malostranské náměstí, the rotunda can only be reached on foot via a marked nature trail. This access is quite different from the Staroplzenecká circular hike: the described walking route is the only way to reach the rotunda.

Protected Nature Along the Route

Andrejšky in Starý Plzenec is a protected natural area with a ridge of strangely shaped silicate rocks. Černá stráň, a protected fossil site, is also on the nature trail. Fossil collecting may be restricted, so follow the applicable rules. In Sedlec, Starý rybník is a natural monument on the trail. Together, these places show that the route takes in protected natural sites as well as historical and architectural attractions.

Sparkling Wine Culture and Tours

BOHEMIA SEKT in Starý Plzenec offers tours of its sparkling wine production and tastings of selected sparkling wines. Freshly disgorged sparkling wine can also be tasted at the Manufaktura. A reservation may be required; check the reservation details before your visit. BOHEMIA SEKT is a 12-minute journey from Plzeň Main Railway Station, and bus routes 50 and 51 also run there from Plzeň. As transport information depends on the timetable, it is advisable to check it before travelling.

Radyně Castle Tower houses a permanent interactive exhibition. It covers everyday life in a medieval castle and the history of Radyně from its foundation to the present day. Climbing 114 steps rewards visitors with views of Plzeň and the surrounding area. Visiting conditions may vary; check them before planning your visit.

Discover more destinations: Letkov, Vstiš, Dýšina, Kyšice, Chrást, Bolevec, Pilsen, Nezvěstice.

Back to the main travel overview: Plzeň-Město District.