The Evolution of the Windsor of Bohemia

The history of Hluboká Castle Windsor of Bohemia began in the 13th century. It started as a Gothic fortress built by the Czech kings. Over the centuries, several noble families owned the site. Each owner changed the building to match the fashion of their time.

In 1661, the powerful Schwarzenberg family purchased the estate. They first rebuilt the castle in the Baroque style. However, the most significant change happened in the mid-1800s. The family wanted a home that reflected their high social status and romantic ideals.

Architect Franz Beer led the massive reconstruction project. He drew inspiration from the Tudor Gothic style found in England. This transformation created the white towers and battlements we see today. The result is a unique blend of English romanticism and Bohemian tradition.

Today, the castle stands as a symbol of 19th-century luxury. The interior features rare woods, delicate carvings, and massive chandeliers. Every room tells a story about the family who shaped the region's history for centuries.

9 Highlights of Your Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle Tour

To truly understand the history of Hluboká Castle Windsor of Bohemia, you should explore these specific sites. Each one offers a unique look at the palace's past and present. Here are the top picks for your itinerary:

• Best overall: The Main Representative Rooms
• Best for families: The Castle Tower
• Best for art lovers: Alšova South Bohemian Gallery
• Best free activity: The Castle Gardens

1. Name: The Neo-Gothic Facade Type: Sight Why go: To see the iconic white battlements and 11 towers. Best for: Photographers. Where: Main Castle Exterior. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view. Getting there: Walk up the hill from the town center. Tip: Look for the door handles shaped like ravens pecking at Turk heads.
2. Name: The Castle Armoury Type: Museum Why go: It is one of the largest private collections of weapons in Europe. Best for: History buffs. Where: Inside the main castle. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Included in specific tour circuits. Getting there: Follow the guided tour path. Tip: Ask the guide about the 16th-century tournament armor.
3. Name: The Winter Dining Room Type: Indoor Sight Why go: Features incredible wood carvings and a massive tapestry collection. Best for: Interior design fans. Where: First floor. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Part of the Representative Rooms tour. Getting there: Guided tour only. Tip: Notice the intricate ceiling made from precious woods.
4. Name: The Castle Tower Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers 360-degree views of the Vltava river valley. Best for: Brave climbers. Where: Highest point of the castle. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Separate ticket usually required. Getting there: Climb 245 steps from the courtyard. Tip: The tower is closed during bad weather for safety.
5. Name: The English Landscape Park Type: Nature Why go: 190 hectares of manicured lawns and rare tree species. Best for: A relaxing walk. Where: Surrounding the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from the main gates. Tip: Visit in autumn for the most vibrant colors.
6. Name: The Historic Castle Kitchen Type: Experience Why go: See how massive banquets were prepared for the nobility. Best for: Foodies. Where: Castle basement. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Specific kitchen tour ticket. Getting there: Entrance from the lower courtyard. Tip: Look for the original 19th-century "dumbwaiter" elevator.
7. Name: Alšova South Bohemian Gallery Type: Museum Why go: Houses a world-class collection of Gothic and modern art. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Former Castle Riding Hall. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Entry fee applies. Getting there: Next to the main castle entrance. Tip: Don't miss the medieval wood carvings.
8. Name: Town of Hluboká nad Vltavou Type: Neighborhood Why go: A charming town with local cafes and shops. Best for: Lunch and souvenirs. Where: At the foot of the castle hill. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free to explore. Getting there: Walking distance from the castle. Tip: Try a local Czech pastry at the bakeries near the church.
9. Name: Ohrada Hunting Lodge Type: Day trip Why go: A nearby Baroque lodge dedicated to hunting and forestry history. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: 2km from the castle. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Entry fee applies. Getting there: A short drive or 25-minute walk. Tip: There is a small zoo right next to the lodge for kids.

Planning Your Visit from Český Krumlov

Most visitors reach Hluboká as a day trip from the nearby city of Český Krumlov. The journey is very easy and takes about 30 to 45 minutes. You can learn more about getting to Hluboká Castle from Český Krumlov to plan your route. Public buses run frequently between the two towns.

If you prefer driving, there is a large parking lot at the bottom of the hill. From there, you must walk about 10 minutes uphill to reach the castle gates. For those with limited mobility, a small tourist train often runs during the summer months. This train carries visitors from the town center to the castle entrance.

Keep in mind that the castle is very popular in July and August. To avoid the biggest crowds, try to arrive for the first tour of the morning. You should also book your tickets online in advance. This ensures you get a spot on the tour in your preferred language.