Dívčí Kámen Castle Ruin

The Dívčí Kámen Castle ruin is situated 17 km south of České Budějovice. It lies on the Vltava River between České Budějovice and Český Krumlov. The castle was built by the Rožmberk noble family during the reign of King Charles IV. It is thus the same age as Karlštejn Castle. Unlike it, however, this castle was practically never taken care of. This comparison makes it even more interesting to visit the castle. The more signs of the centuries of neglect it bears, the more romantic it feels. It is situated in the beautiful Blanský Les Protected Landscape Area, which is also a nature reserve. At present the castle is owned by the town of Křemže, which has been preserving it gradually in order to conserve its impressive and extensive torso. The booth by the entrance to the castle sells some small refreshments and souvenirs; visitors to the castle can use the fireplace beneath the castle for roasting their own sausages. Cultural events and weddings are held at the castle. The castle is open daily from dawn to dusk.

You can make a day trip by train from České Budějovice to Třísov station, and return from Holubov. You can park your car in either of the villages if you choose to drive. If you like hiking and seeing beautiful country, you would certainly manage walking the trip along the Vltava River, following the red hiking trail from Boršov nad Vltavou, which is connected to Budějovice by public transport, buses and trains.