Explore the Enchanting Rose Gardens of the Czech Republic

The Beauty of the Rose Garden with Ten Thousand Roses in Olomouc

Olomouc Rosarium spans across 3.5 hectares and is part of the botanical garden located on the eastern edge of the Crown Fortress in Bezručovy Sady. This garden was developed between 1970 and 1972, and after renovations by renowned landscape architect Zdeněk Sendler, it was transformed into a contemporary recreation area. Here, you can find a variety of amenities, including a picnic area, a paddling pool, wooden benches, stylish canopies for shade , and a pétanque court. Naturally, the highlight is the roses—approximately ten thousand rose bushes representing 400 different varieties ranging from bedding to climbing types. The area offers Wi-Fi, and you can rent a picnic blanket at the entrance, with plans for grills in the future. Every June, the Olomouc Rosarium hosts a special festival and exhibition called Confessions to the Roses, making it one of the largest events of its kind in the Czech Republic.

Amazement through Variety and Fragrance – The Largest Collection of Roses in Průhonice

When you stroll through Průhonice Park and follow its eastern edge, you’ll arrive at the Botanical Gardens at Chotobuzi. For several decades, numerous collections of ornamental plants have been cultivated here, including irises, roses, peonies, rhododendrons, daylilies, and water lilies. This garden harbors the largest collection of both wild and cultivated roses in the country, with varieties exceeding 4,000. You’ll find historical, climbing, shrub, miniature, and wild roses here. Access to the garden is only through the entrance from Průhonický Park.

Expansive Rose Terraces at Stekník Castle

The Garden of Stekník Castle stands out as one of the few Italian-style gardens in Bohemia. Constructed in the latter half of the 18th century under the stewardship of Jan František Kulhánek of Klaudenstein, who inherited the castle in 1760. After World War II, the garden was turned into a utility space, leading to the loss of many sandstone statues and vases that had adorned the terraces and staircases. Today, Stekník is recognized for its abundant blooming climbing roses, which have made it a favored location for summer wedding ceremonies. It boasts the largest terraced rose garden in Bohemia, with over 70 rose bushes of old and rare varieties already flourishing in the garden.

Petrin Rose Orchard – The Largest Rose Garden in Prague

The largest rosarium in Prague is the accessible rose garden at Petrin Hill, just a short walk from the upper station of the cable car originating in Újezd. It features around eight thousand rose bushes. To see the roses at their most beautiful, plan your visit for mid-June. One of the unique highlights is a rare rose cultivar bred in 1936 by Jan Böhm, known as “General Stefanik“, which is located just a few steps away from the statue of Rastislav Štefánik and the observatory. Other gardens within Petřín also invite leisurely strolls and relaxation, including Great Strahovská and Seminar Gardens, Nebozízek Garden which offers stunning views of Prague, the perennial Květnice garden, and the Kinský Garden featuring the charming Kinský Summer House.

The Lidice Rose Orchard – Central Europe’s Largest Rainbow of Roses

Every review of rose gardens should include the rose orchard at the Lidice Memorial, which was planted in 1955 (currently it is closed until further notice due to coronavirus). Approximately 25,000 rose bushes representing 240 different species flourish here, including unique varieties of Lidice. In 2015, the Lidice rose orchard was recognized at the 25th annual festival of Pelhřimov – City of Records, earning the title of Record of the Year for the largest number of rose bushes in a single orchard. That same year, it received the prestigious Award of Garden Excellence from the World Federation of Rose Societies, solidifying its status as one of the most significant rose gardens globally. In 2022, a significant renovation of the memorial, including its exhibition, took place.

Rosarium at the Castles of Jemniště and Slatiňany

At Jemniště Castle, a rosarium was established in 2010, which has become a popular and fragrant site for weddings. Visitors can also enjoy a rock garden, a jardinette, and a mini zoo. Keep an eye out for majestic white peacocks, friendly parrots in the menagerie, and various animals such as raccoons, water birds, goats, donkeys, llamas, and kangaroos.

The Rosarium in the park near Slatiňany Chateau is also accessible; it is just two years younger than the one in Jemniště and is open from dawn until dusk.

Rose Garden at Konopiště Castle

When Archduke Franz Ferdinand d’Este acquired Konopiště Castle, he lavishly transformed it into a luxurious residence and improved the surrounding landscape. By around 1900, an English park and a game preserve spanned 340 hectares around the castle. To the south, you’ll find greenhouses for palms and orchids, an alpine garden with a pond, and the site of what was formerly a Baroque garden, now known as The Rose Garden. This beautiful locale features 200 species of roses, including both tall and bushy varieties, making it the standout attraction in the complex of ornamental gardens, terraces, and parks.

Rose Garden in the Park at Častolovice Castle

In the park near Častolovice Castle, you’ll find not only a small zoo and a pond with a delightful café but also a rose garden, which was restored in 1994. Here, you can admire around 150 types of roses, known for their unique fragrances, most of which were brought to East Bohemia from abroad. A standout is the old white rose by Mme Hardy, along with a unique modern pink rose created by Constance Spry. Many antique rose varieties bloom just once a year, making late May or early June the best time to visit to experience their beauty.

The Most Exclusive Rosarium in Hradec Králové

Why is it so exclusive? Because the Rosarium in Hradec Králové – Kukleny opens its doors only twice a year for two weekends. This garden is the sole international competition rosarium in the Czech Republic, dedicated to assessing and rewarding new rose cultivars based on specific cultivation and aesthetic standards. Each year, one cultivar receives the top honor, the title of Golden Rose of the City of Hradec Králové. The garden showcases over 200 species and 1,000 rose bushes in a variety of shapes and colors, encompassing large-flowered, multi-flowered, climbing, orchard, cover, and miniature roses.

Discover the Diverse and Stunning Rose Gardens of the Czech Republic

Experience the unique charm and breathtaking beauty of Czech rose gardens, each offering its own special appeal—whether historic or modern. The ideal time to visit is during late spring and early summer, especially in June when the roses are in full bloom.

Highlights of Czech Rose Gardens:

• Olomouc Rosarium:
  Enjoy amenities such as picnic areas, paddling pools, wooden seating areas, sunshades, a pétanque court, and Wi-Fi access.

• Lidice Rose Orchard:
  Planted in 1955, this orchard earned the prestigious Award of Garden Excellence from the World Federation of Rose Societies in 2015. That same year, it was named Record of the Year for having the most rose bushes in a single orchard.

• Prague’s Petřín Rosarium:
  Home to around eight thousand flourishing rose bushes. Alongside the roses, visitors can explore a rock garden, jardinette, a small zoo, and enjoy sightings of proud white peacocks.

• Confessions to Roses Festival:
  One of the largest rose-themed events in the country, the festival is centered around the celebration of roses.

• Botanical Garden at Chotobuzi:
  Showcasing the largest variety of roses in the country, with over 4,000 types—including historical and climbing varieties.

• Stekník Castle Terraces:
  Renowned for spectacular climbing roses, this location boasts the largest terraced rose garden in Bohemia.

No matter which garden you choose to visit, you’re sure to be enchanted by the dazzling displays and peaceful atmosphere. Each location offers something special for rose enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.