Louňovice Pod Blaníkem: Hotels and Accommodation

Louňovice pod Blaníkem lies in the hilly landscape of Central Bohemia, where fields, forests, meadows and small ponds alternate in a mosaic-like pattern. Rising above the town is Velký Blaník, at an elevation of 638 metres above sea level. The Blanice River flows through Louňovice pod Blaníkem and meanders scenically through the surrounding area.

Nature and Trails

Louňovice pod Blaníkem can be reached by bus from Benešov, Vlašim, Votice and Tábor. The starting point of the Blaník nature trail is about a one-kilometre walk from the town square.

The wooden Velký Blaník lookout tower has 107 steps and offers views across the Podblanicko region, including Louňovice pod Blaníkem. The trail S rytířem na Blaník leads from the Dům přírody in Kondrac via the Velký Blaník lookout tower complex to a car park above Louňovice pod Blaníkem. In both directions, it covers approximately two kilometres and features 17 playful stations dedicated to Blaník, the Blaník knights and the nature of the Blaník Protected Landscape Area.

The area can also be explored by bicycle on the 32-kilometre route Po stopách blanických rytířů. It runs through Veliš, Louňovice pod Blaníkem, Velký Blaník and Načeradec. With a little luck, small flakes or scales of natural gold can be panned from the Blanice.

Culture and History

The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is the surviving part of the former monastery in Louňovice. It was originally Gothic and was remodelled in the Baroque style. Louňovice Castle developed from a Renaissance fortress built on the site of the former monastery provostry and was remodelled in the Baroque style in 1675. Today, the castle is used for museums, exhibitions, concerts and other cultural events.

The Beekeeping Museum in Louňovice pod Blaníkem presents the history of beekeeping beneath Blaník, including historic beehives. From spring to September, an observation hive with a living bee colony complements the exhibition.

Festivals and Music

The Svatováclavské slavnosti in Louňovice take place at the end of September. They begin with a mass on Velký Blaník and continue with a procession in medieval clothing to the castle.

The annual music festival Podblanický hudební podzim takes place in the Jan Dismas Zelenka concert hall at Louňovice Castle and also includes works by Zelenka.

The museum Nejstarší dějiny Louňovic pod Blaníkem is currently temporarily closed.

Other Places to Explore

Dunice, Týnec Nad Sázavou, Tomice, Střezimíř, Dolní Kralovice, Zdislavice, Chlum, Záhorí

For the higher-level travel overview: Benešov District.