Monday May 27th: Divci Kamen Castle Day
- loriandtoddpatrick
- Jun 2, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 3, 2024
After our first day in Cesky Krumlov (CK), we quickly noticed the heavy presence of larger eastern tourist groups. We had experienced similar crowds in Hallstatt, but in CK, they seemed even more.
Recognizing this trend, we decided to go against the tourist grain and planned a day trip out of town. Todd discovered Divci Kamen Castle, located about 45 minutes away. A 3 km hike led us to this remote and primitive castle. With no handrails or "watch your step" signs, it felt like a hidden gem cherished by locals for children's educational purposes. Picnic tables and fire pits dotted the area, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Surrounded by a lush dense forest, the castle offered an escape into the past. After touring the ruins, we chose a different trail back. One of our favorite parts of this trip has been discovering unexpected hikes and trails using Maps and All Trails. This particular trail, used historically by the castle owners, was lined with ancient stone walls and a beautiful forest canopy. This day trip to was a refreshing escape and a highlight of our visit. It reminded us of the beauty in stepping off the beaten path and exploring hidden gems.
We returned to CK via scenic back roads, arriving as most tourist buses were departing. We headed up to the palace to explore. The museum was excellent, and the bell tower offered the best view so far, with TP making it to the top this time. We strolled the vast gardens in the rain, enjoying the peace and solitude with most tourists gone.
Afterward, we stopped by a small bar for a glass of wine and a recap of our day. We then visited the impressive cathedral to sit and contemplate for a while.
Finally, we strolled the perimeter of the town and found the perfect little riverside restaurant on the local side of the village. Despite the crowds, we absolutely loved Cesky Krumlov and highly recommend it to anyone traveling in Croatia in May or September. Just be prepared for the large groups visiting from Asia during the day and plan accordingly.
