Český Rudolec: Trails, Culture and Brewing Tradition

Český Rudolec can be explored through several distinct aspects: the Graselova Trail, the architectural history of Malá Hluboká, a long local brewing tradition and granite formations in the surrounding area. Those planning an overnight stay can use these themes as practical points of reference for their visit. They range from the circular trail and its landmarks to architectural and industrial history.

The Graselova Trail and Its Landmarks

The Graselova Trail starts in the village square by the Church of St John the Baptist. Dating from 1440, the church is a defining feature of the centre of Český Rudolec. At the start of the route, trail guidance and a prominent local building come together.

The Graselova Trail is marked with a yellow circle framed by a white letter “G”. As trail markers may be updated over time, it is a good idea to check the markings before setting out. Near Radíkov, the circular trail joins a red-marked hiking trail and leads back to Český Rudolec. The village square start, the junction near Radíkov and the return to the village are the trail’s main landmarks.

There are also notable points on and near trails beyond this circular route: on the Český Rudolec–Slavonice section, the Chapel of the Holy Cross comes into view shortly after leaving Český Rudolec. Nearby, visible traces of historic silver mining remain at Kutiště, along the Graselova Trail.

The Architectural History and Park of Malá Hluboká

Malá Hluboká is protected as an immovable cultural monument. It acquired its present romantic Tudor Gothic appearance during its reconstruction after the fire of 1860. The complex also includes an English-style park, whose development began as early as the late 17th century. These dates refer to different parts of the ensemble: the park dates back to an earlier period, while the building’s present appearance is associated with its reconstruction after the fire.

The orangery was used to grow exotic fruit; its special features also included the cultivation of pineapples. Visitors can purchase tickets for guided castle tours at the tourist centre. As visitor arrangements may change seasonally, it is best to check what is available before your trip.

The History of Brewing in Český Rudolec

According to surviving records, beer was already being brewed at the present site of Pivovar Grasel in 1539. The brewing tradition continued until 1897; in 2015, Zámecký pivovar Český Rudolec rose anew from the ruins. The three dates mark distinct stages in the local brewing history: early brewing activity, the end of the documented tradition and a later reconstruction.

There is also something for visitors: Pivovar Grasel brewery in Český Rudolec invites them to taste its own beers. As this offering may change, check before your trip.

Granite Landscapes and Historic Sites in the Surrounding Area

Nearby is Skalka, also known as Kofrštán or Měděný vrch. The rocky granite summit reaches an elevation of 679.3 metres; on its northern side are rock walls 10 to 15 metres high. Filipovy kameny has a different form: this granite rock formation, about 100 metres long, is shaped by water and rock. The Hornoradíkovský potok disappears beneath it, and plunge pools lie among the large boulders. The two landscape features therefore differ in their described forms: one is a summit with northern rock walls, the other an elongated formation with a stream and pools.

The fully preserved small wooden sawmill Vodní pila Peníkov is also located near Český Rudolec. It is protected as an immovable cultural monument. It can be reached in about a 40-minute walk via the Graselova Trail or the blue-marked hiking trail; walking time may vary depending on trail conditions. The Zkrášlovací spolek Rudolecko beautification association offers guided tours and demonstrations of sawing there. As visitor arrangements and availability may change, it is best to enquire in advance.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Dačice, Heřmaneč, Majdalena, Písečné U Slavonic, Bednárec, Polště, Pluhův Žďár, Volfířov

For the higher-level travel overview: Okres Jindřichův Hradec.