Sirnin near Kleť: Nature Trail, Chapels and Village History

Sirnin in the Blanský les

Sirnin lies 540 metres above sea level at the foot of Mount Kleť and within the Blanský les Protected Landscape Area. The Granátník Nature Trail starts and ends in Sirnin, directly connecting the village with the surrounding natural area and the circular route. Anyone interested in the landscape and local history will find both as concrete themes to consider when planning a trip.

Village History and Chapels

The origins of Sirnin are linked to the colonisation activities of Zlatá Koruna Monastery. The first written mention of the village dates from 1400. A further historical reference comes from 1440, when Sirnin was mentioned as part of Rájov-Rychta within the Zlatá Koruna estate. The dates refer to different points: the first written mention and a later historical designation.

A memorial to the soldiers who fell in the First World War was unveiled on the village green in 1929. Its location and dedication make it a distinct memorial in the village’s history.

Two chapels are also associated with written mentions dating from 1837. The Chapel of St John of Nepomuk was first mentioned in writing that year; its construction is attributed to Martin Novotný. It was renovated a few years ago. The Chapel Na Vršku was also first mentioned in writing in 1837. A description from that year calls it a municipally owned masonry chapel featuring a depiction of Panna Marie Kájovská. The painted image no longer survives.

Nature Trail, Viewpoint and Wildlife

The Granátník Nature Trail is an 8.5-kilometre circular route that starts and ends in Sirnin. Nine information panels cover local fauna and flora, geology, and the history of military fortifications. The trail also includes wetlands with orchids. This brings nature topics and a historical focus together along the route.

A five-metre-high wooden observation tower stands on the eastern slope of Granátník Hill, offering views of the picturesque Vltava Valley. The viewing platform at the observation tower on Granátník is freely accessible year-round. Nevertheless, check locally before your trip to confirm access.

The Srnčí Trail branches off from the Granátník Nature Trail towards Mount Kamýk and then rejoins it. Visitors on the Srnčí Trail can use a mobile app, scan QR codes on animal images and listen to the sounds made by the animals. There are also interactive features for children, such as a memory game and QR-coded animal images. As app features may change, check before your visit whether the app is currently available.

Routes to Rájov and Zlatá Koruna

The Vltava Trail 7, EV7 and Greenway RD pass through Sirnin on their way to Zlatá Koruna. The historic route from Sirnin to Rájov tells a different story: it was also used by various carts travelling towards České Budějovice. The details differ by destination and period: here, the historical movement of carts; there, the named route passing through Sirnin to Zlatá Koruna.

For choosing a travel destination, this combination of landscape, village history and different route themes offers several concrete points of interest. The circular route, chapels and memorial shape different aspects of the village and its history; details about the observation tower and the Srnčí Trail add further named destinations and activities.

Discover more destinations: Polletitz, Friedberg, Dluhoste, Malsching, Hohenfurth, Neudorf B. Berlau, Velešín, Angern

For the broader travel overview: Okres Český Krumlov.