Why Visit the Vítkův Kámen Ruins Viewpoint?

Vítkův Kámen, also known as Vítkův Hrádek, was built in the 13th century. It served as a strategic guard post near the Austrian border. The massive stone tower remains the highlight of the site today. You can climb the wooden stairs inside the tower to reach the observation deck. From there, the vast Lipno reservoir stretches out below you like a blue mirror.

The ruins are surrounded by dense forests and peaceful hiking trails. This area was closed to the public during the Cold War era. Because of this, the nature here remains untouched and wild. It is a perfect spot for photographers looking for dramatic landscapes. You will find several places to visit near Český Krumlov that complement this trip perfectly.

Visiting in 2026 allows you to experience updated visitor facilities. Local volunteers have worked hard to preserve the stone walls. There is a small refreshment stand near the entrance for hikers. Always check the weather before you climb up. Clouds can move in quickly and hide the famous Alpine view. It is best to visit during the golden hour for the best photos.

10 Best Sights Near Vítkův Kámen Ruins Viewpoint

There are many incredible attractions within a short drive of the ruins. You can easily combine a visit to the viewpoint with a tour of medieval towns. Most travelers stay in nearby Český Krumlov to explore the region. Here are the top picks for your South Bohemian adventure.

• Best overall: Vítkův Kámen
• Best for families: Lipno Treetop Walkway
• Best rainy-day: Vyšší Brod Monastery
• Best free sight: Holašovice Village

1. Name: Vítkův Kámen (Vítkův Hrádek) Type: Sight/Viewpoint Why go: It offers the highest panoramic views in Bohemia. Best for: Photographers and hikers. Where: Near the village of Svatý Tomáš. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for the tower. Getting there: Drive to Svatý Tomáš and walk 500 meters uphill. Tip: Bring binoculars to see the Alps clearly.
2. Name: Lipno Treetop Walkway Type: Activity Why go: Walk among the trees on a wooden path. Best for: Families with children. Where: Lipno nad Vltavou. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate ticket price. Getting there: Use the Lipno cable car to reach the summit. Tip: Take the giant slide down for extra fun.
3. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Type: Sight Why go: It is a massive UNESCO World Heritage site with a famous tower. Best for: History buffs. Where: Český Krumlov town center. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Varies by tour circuit. Getting there: 40-minute drive from the ruins. Tip: Book your tour in advance on the official site.
4. Name: Rožmberk Castle Type: Sight Why go: A stunning Gothic castle overlooking the Vltava River. Best for: Romantic couples. Where: Rožmberk nad Vltavou. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid entry for tours. Getting there: Follow the river road from Vyšší Brod. Tip: Read our Rožmberk tour guide for parking tips.
5. Name: Mount Kleť Type: Nature/Viewpoint Why go: Features the oldest stone lookout tower in the country. Best for: Active hikers. Where: North of Český Krumlov. Time: Half-day trip. Cost: Free to hike; small fee for the tower. Getting there: Hike or take the Kleť cable car from Krasetín. Tip: Try the local garlic soup at the mountain hut.
6. Name: Dívčí Kámen Castle Ruins Type: Experience Why go: Romantic ruins located at the junction of two streams. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Near Třísov. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Small entrance fee. Getting there: Accessible via the Dívčí Kámen hike from the train station. Tip: Pack a picnic to enjoy in the castle courtyard.
7. Name: Holašovice UNESCO Village Type: Sight Why go: Famous for its unique South Bohemian Folk Baroque architecture. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: 30 minutes from Český Krumlov. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to walk around. Getting there: Best reached by car using this Holašovice guide. Tip: Visit during the July Rural Festival for local crafts.
8. Name: Vyšší Brod Monastery Type: Sight Why go: Home to a beautiful historic library and the Záviš Cross. Best for: Art and history lovers. Where: Vyšší Brod. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Paid guided tours. Getting there: 20-minute drive from Vítkův Kámen. Tip: The monastery brewery serves excellent local beer.
9. Name: Zlatá Koruna Monastery Type: Sight Why go: One of the best-preserved Cistercian monasteries in Bohemia. Best for: Quiet contemplation. Where: Zlatá Koruna village. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate tour fee. Getting there: Short drive from Krumlov; see our visit guide. Tip: Look for the unique "teardrop" window in the chapel.
10. Name: Lipno Dam Type: Nature/Activity Why go: The largest lake in the Czech Republic for swimming and sailing. Best for: Summer relaxation. Where: Lipno region. Time: Full day. Cost: Free access; equipment rentals vary. Getting there: Drive 15 minutes from the ruins. Tip: Rent an electric boat for a quiet tour of the lake.

Planning Your Trip to Vítkův Kámen

Reaching the Vítkův Kámen ruins viewpoint requires some planning. The castle is usually open from April to October. During winter, the tower may be closed due to ice and snow. Always check the official tourism portal for current hours. If you are driving, head toward the village of Přední Výtoň first.

The road to the ruins is narrow and winds through the forest. There is a small parking lot in the village of Svatý Tomáš. From there, it is a gentle 10-minute walk to the castle gates. The path is well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels. You can find more details on Visit Czechia for regional travel tips.

Comfortable walking shoes are essential for this trip. The ground inside the ruins can be uneven and rocky. If you plan to stay late for sunset, bring a flashlight. The forest gets dark very quickly once the sun drops. There are no streetlights on the path back to the parking lot. Safety is important when exploring these ancient stone structures.