Kokořín (hrad)

Kokořín Castle is one of the most romantic castles in Bohemia. It stands roughly ten kilometres northeast of Mělník, above the small Pšovka river in the Dokeská pahorkatina hills, near the village of Kokořín. Rising above a wooded valley, its slender tower and walls create exactly the image of a medieval stronghold that many people associate with Czech castles.

The castle was built after 1320, and its origin is linked to the Prague burgrave Hynek Berka of Dubá. Over the centuries it went through periods of both prosperity and decline, but it has preserved its striking setting and atmosphere to this day. The castle's name has even carried over to the surrounding area — the whole protected landscape region is named Kokořínsko after it.

A visit to Kokořín is a treat not just for the castle itself but for its surroundings too. The Pšovka valley, sandstone rock formations, forests, and viewpoints make Kokořínsko one of the most beautiful natural areas in Bohemia. From the castle tower, a view opens over the rolling landscape and deep forests, which practically invite you to go exploring the rocky nooks.

Kokořín is an ideal day-trip destination from both Prague and Mělník, pairing wonderfully with hikes through the Kokořínsko protected landscape area. If you want to enjoy the region without rushing, it's worth choosing accommodation nearby and including the castle among walks through sandstone rocks and peaceful days in nature — here the combination of history and wild landscape works perfectly.