Rataje lies in a valley that slopes gently down to the east, about five kilometres from Vlašim. The village’s distinctive features include its listed chapel, walking trails through fields and woodland, and the Ratajský potok below the village. This lets you decide whether you are more interested in local culture, waterside walks or both during your stay.

Chapel and Folk Art

The chapel is a cultural monument and a defining landmark of the village. It contains a listed altar and a folk nativity scene with about 50 human and animal figures. Kupsův Blaník is also part of the chapel’s furnishings: the work was installed in the chapel with the help of other residents. There is also a smaller model of Blaník there, with knights, folk figures and animals. The altar, nativity scene and two depictions of Blaník give the chapel a range of cultural features.

Trails through the Landscape

The 2021 municipal planning document describes walking routes in Rataje that follow existing access roads as well as field and forest paths. A route from Vlašim towards Želivka and Posázaví passes through Rataje. The route therefore connects the village with the surrounding landscape in that direction; the routes described follow different types of paths.

Below Rataje, the revitalised Ratajský potok and its pond offer a place for a walk for local residents and day-trippers arriving in Rataje via the hiking trail. Alders, willows and native plant species grow along the banks. Dragonflies and interesting bird species can be observed by the stream. If you are interested in observing nature, you can combine it with a walk by the water.

The sv. Anny spring lies on a forest path between Rataje and Trhový Štěpánov; a green-marked walking route follows this path. The spring is freely accessible. Check local access conditions before your visit.

Getting Your Bearings and Planning

Green spaces and benches have been created in the centre of Rataje as places to rest and meet. Information boards for tourists are located on the village green. These provide different kinds of information on site: the green spaces and benches are places to spend time, while the boards provide information for visitors.

Admission to the Kalamajka observation tower is free, but the tower is locked. You can only access it by borrowing a key in advance from one of the six municipal offices, including the municipal office in Rataje. The access information was last updated on 16 March 2022. Check the key arrangements before your visit.

The 2021 municipal planning document identifies Zdislavice as the nearest railway station to Rataje. If you plan to travel by train, check current connections before making your travel arrangements.

The Ratajský pohár is a recurring nohejbal tournament in Rataje. If the tournament is the reason for your trip, check the specific event dates before making your plans.

Discover more destinations: Lešany, Litichovice, Choratice, Děkanovice, Miřetice, Přestavlky U Čerčan, Petriny U Vlasimy, Stranný.

For the broader travel overview: Okres Benešov.