Šternberk Castle, Posázava’s Hidden Gems, and a Murder Mystery
On a rocky outcrop above the Sázava River stands a castle established in 1241 by Zdeslav of Divišov, the founder of the Šternberk family a whose descendants have owned it for nearly 800 years. The castle got its name from the family’s coat of arms, which features a golden eight-pointed star. The current owner is Filip Sternberg, a lawyer of Czech-Austrian descent and the 20th generation of this ancient noble family. Český Šternberk Castle welcomes visitors for tours all year round. From May to September regular tours are available every day, except Mondays. During the off-season, which runs from October to the end of April, visitors can explore the castle every weekend.
The area surrounding the castle offers numerous chances for hiking and exploring nature at any time of the year. Walk along the trails surrounding the castle that provide stunning views of the countryside. The Hunger Tower looms over a ravine ominously called Murder, offering dramatic vistas of the castle and the village below. Whether you visit in spring or winter, Český Šternberk will greet you like a long-lost friend, sharing tales from its rich history.
There are various routes to reach Český Šternberk, but the most romantic way is via the Posázava Pacific. This famous railway line meanders alongside the Sázava River, resembling a silver ribbon and passing by viaducts, lush forests, and quaint settlements. You will arrive at the bus stop just across the river from the castle. The ride itself is a delightful experience, as the windows showcase views of the river, cliffs, and serene spots that feel like scenes from a storybook. The Czech Railways train operates year-round, so you can visit at any time. It’s perfect for those who want to start their journey already in sync with the trip’s rhythm.
Český Šternberk is stunning from spring to winter
Spring in the Posázaví region is like a vibrant story coming to life. Around Český Šternberk, gardens, meadows, and ravines are filled with blooming flowers, and sunlight dances on the water’s surface like a skilled artist. It’s the perfect time for a walk in the Vražda Gorge, where the spring mist blends with whispers of old legends, or to climb up to the Hunger Tower, from which you can view the castle as if it were a postcard. Photographers will appreciate the soft light highlighting the castle’s stone walls, and lovers of romance can stroll down paths through the landscape that resemble verses of poetry. You can combine your hike with a visit to the lookout near the village, where the castle reflects in the lush landscape like a scene from a fairytale, or follow a nature trail to Divišov (you can take a detour to Soběšín and return through the Posázava Pacific).
Summer brings a lively atmosphere to Český Šternberk, especially along the Sázava River. Adventurous paddlers travel downriver from Kácov to Sázava, with the castle serving as a perfect rest stop. Guided tours are held almost daily, making the area bustling with tourists, while the Posázava Pacific carries visitors to a spot with an excellent view of the whole Castle. On hot days, you can relax in the shade of the castle’s cool walls, walk through the shady gorge, or take a refreshing dip in the river. A great suggestion is to plan a lovely picnic by the river with your friends or family.
Autumn in the Posázaví landscape resembles an old postcard — colorful leaves, foggy mornings, and striking views. Exploring The Hunger Tower and taking in the views over the gorge named Murder evokes both a sense of nostalgia and awe. The area around the castle is adorned with warm colors reminiscent of classic paintings. This is the ideal time for serene excursions, where history merges with the sound of fallen leaves… Explore the Knight Jan Krystof Šic nature trail, or enjoy a comforting cup of tea in one of the local cafés.
Winter transforms Český Šternberk into a tranquil haven. Weekend tours of the castle provide a unique perspective — the stone walls draped in snow and frost, with interiors alive with ancient tales and a wintery atmosphere. The Posázava Pacific attracts romantics searching for a fascinating destination amidst a snowy landscape. You can also visit the Gorge of Murder, which particularly in winter resembles the setting of a haunting gothic story.
