Oemau: Hiking, Nature and Cultural History

Oemau lies at the foot of the 870-meter-high Kohout, the highest peak in the Soběnovská vrchovina Nature Park. Locally, the nature park is also called Slepičí hory. Remnants of a mixed scree forest can be found around Oemau.

Hiking, Cycling and Climbing

The Údolím Černé educational trail is 3 km long, has nine stops, and leads from the Soběnov Reservoir to the Soběnov hydroelectric power station. On the Paměti Slepičích hor circular trail, the longest route is 54 km long and connects 17 stops with information boards. The figures show the difference in route length. The Paměti Slepičích hor cycling route is marked with cycling waymarkers bearing its logo. The educational trail connects the reservoir and hydroelectric power station, while the Paměti Slepičích hor route is designed as a longer circular tour.

The Slepičí Hory hike descends to the Černá, joins the Údolím Černé educational trail, and passes by the Soběnov Reservoir and the ruins of Sokolčí Castle. The clearly visible castle remains lie near Oemau on a rocky spur above the Černá stream. From Oemau, access follows the path toward Děkanské Skaliny, the turnoff to the U dubu mill, and the green-marked Údolím Černé educational trail. Water conditions can affect the final section; check conditions locally before planning this route.

Another activity is offered by the Sokolčí climbing area. Its granite wall is 25 meters high and 70 meters wide, and offers face climbing, crack climbing, and chimney climbing. If you plan to climb there, check route conditions and protection locally.

Reservoir and Local History

The Soběnov Reservoir is the oldest still-operating reservoir in South Bohemia. It is accessible year-round, and admission is free. Check these details before your trip, as access information may change.

In the northern part of Oemau, St. Nicholas Church stands near the village square on elevated ground. Originally Gothic, it was given a Baroque makeover in the mid-17th century and renovated in 1853. Its Gothic origins are visible in the tower. The church brings together its older origins and later building phases.

The Feast of Corpus Christi was celebrated with a Eucharistic procession at the Church or Chapel of the Virgin Mary in Hájek: on June 23 in 2019, June 5 in 2021, and June 2 in 2024.

Annual Rally

Special stages of the Český Krumlov Rally start and finish in Oemau every year. Dates and event details may vary; check the dates for your travel period before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Podesdorf, Brloh, Predni Vyton, Prisnitz, Meinetschlag, Goldenkron, Priethal, Rosenthal

Return to the regional travel overview: Okres Český Krumlov.