Loket Castle in Czechia is rightfully one of the most impressive sights of the country. The Castle is situated on the Ohře river, 120 km from Prague close to a famous resort city Karlovy Vary. Do you know what makes this place so amazing and what to do here? Let’s find out.
History of Loket Castle in Czechia
Locket Castle domineers over the district on the high rock cliff in surroundin of small toy like houses. First records about the Castle are dated back to 1234. It is not yet determined who the founder of the Castle is. Among possible persons are: Prince Vladislav II, King Premyslov I Ottakar and Vaclav I.
Locket has its name from a Czech word “lokot” which means elbow, due to the bent arm look of the river it stands on.
One of the legends says that Locket’s aim was to divide Czech and German lands. Several centuries it served as a frontier outpost. Then it became also Kings’ quarters that strengthen its influence and authority.
In 1822 there was a prison in the Castle that worked up to 1949. Only in 1968 Loket was recognized as a national historic landmark. It became a museum where you can get acquainted with the happenings of the past centuries.
Legends
There are many small statues of gnomes and mythical beings on the territory of the Loket Castle in Czechia. Of course, these creatures maintain lots of legends.
For example:
- Do not forget to touch the beard of the gnome Gottstein, leave him some money and make a wish. The wish will come true.
- It’s better not to touch a club behind Gottstein’s back as you may feel his anger within one year.
- Another very famous castle’s creature is a gnome Strakakal who likes to go after grubs and comb their hair. So do not forget to fix your hair before going to the castle.
What to do here
First of all, I recommend you to walk around the castle and have a look at everything. At entrance to Locket Castle in Czechia there is a high tower with a dragon on top. By the way, go upstairs and enjoy a wonderful view of the town from a bird’s view.
Actually, Locket offers many interesting things from historical and aesthetic attitude. When you have felt an ancient medieval atmosphere there, discover its visual side. There are several buildings to visit on the territory of Locket Castle.
Halls with expositions
In the archeological hall is a display of different bowls, figurines and jewelry. Items were found within the walls of the Castle and in its surroundings.
In Markgraf house there is the Museum of Porcelain, which houses famous dinnerware sets of famous “Mozer”. Besides, all sets were produced at the beginning of last century and unique.
The company “Mozer”, founded in Karlovy Vary, became popular among Royal and President families all over the world.
Also you can visit a Museum of Instruments of Torture that is supplied with manikins and audile effects. Together they show a way more realistic picture. At the wing of the Loket Castle in Czechia is a Museum of Weaponry and Armor. Furthermore, many tourists find it of a special interest as well.
On the first floor of the building is an old hall for grand ceremonies and weddings. Walls of the hall are decorated with picturesque portraits and frescos.
Moreover, anyone can rent this place and keep the event whether that is a wedding party or a fancy-dress ball.
Finally after visiting all halls, take a rest and eat tasty Czech dishes. There is a restaurant on the territory of Locket where you can enjoy local cuisine and beverages. The restaurant works daily from 11 a.m. till 10 p.m.
Interesting fact: the movie “Casino Royal” was shot in the wall of the Loket Castle in Prague. Here you can find more world-famous films shot in Czechia: Films made in Prague and the Czech Republic.
How to get there from Prague
Bus and train
You can go to Locket Castle by a direct bus from Prague Florenc station to Locket station. The road will take about 3 hours. Approximate price is 5-8 Euros.
Another option is to go there by train “Regional” from Prague. When it arrives to the main station in Karlovy Vary, take a bus to the station Locket. Travel time – 4,5 hours. Approximate price is 9-14 Euros. If you travel by car, take direction to Karlovy Vary. The distance is 140 km. Pay attention that there are several toll roads (R6 to 136 turnoff) and don’t forget to pay.
The parking places near Locket Castle are fee paying. For the first hour you will pay 10 CZK and 30 CZK for two and more hours.
Rental car
Czechia has quite good roads, therefore there is another way of how to get to Loket castle from Prague. To rent a car for good price, you need to make it in advance. Read carefully about all pros and cons and the best ways of how to rent a car in Prague.
Entrance fee
With a guide:
- for adults – 170 CZK;
- for children, students, pensioners – 140 CZK;
- family ticket – 420 CZK.
Without guide with a text about Castle’s history:
- for adults – 110 CZK;
- for children, students, pensioners – 90 CZK;
- family ticket – 330 CZK.
For making photos – additional fee – 20 CZK
Open hours
- April – October: 9. a.m. – 4.30 p.m.
- November – March: 9 a.m. – 3.30 p.m.
Hotels
Loket castle in Czechia becomes more and more popular with tourists. That’s why it is possible to visit the castle not only for a day trip from Prague, but also to stay there overnight. One of the best options is to come to Loket by afternoon, check in the hotel, discover the town, have a dinner and the following day to spend some more hours in the morning around the castle.
The best hotels to stay in Loket are:
Tours from Prague to Loket Castle
For those of you, who likes to discover new places, we offer an amazing chance: day trip from Prague to Loket castle with a local private tour guide. This is one of the best options: you see and learn a lot and on the other hand, you save time on road and search for the sights.
I sincerely hope, that you will like the castle and enjoy your trip. It would be nice to see your comments and impressions. Thank you!
