Semtěš lies at the foot of the Železné hory mountain range. Preserved traces of a fortified settlement from the Iron Age, the medieval tower of the fortress, and the history of the church’s construction and use give the town several historical layers. The Stezka rytíře Rubína trail also runs around Semtěš; a cycling route and a blue-marked hiking connection add opportunities to explore the outdoors.

Bašta: Tower and views

The tower of Semtěš Fortress, known as “Bašta,” is 22 metres high, prism-shaped, and built of dark rubble stone. It was built in the 14th century as part of a noble residence. This places Bašta within the town’s medieval history.

In 1997–1998, Bašta was reconstructed and converted into a lookout tower. From there, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Železné hory mountains and the area around Čáslav. Its origins as part of a noble residence and its later use as a lookout mark two different periods in the tower’s history.

Bašta can be visited by prior telephone arrangement; the keys are available from a local caretaker. Arrange your visit by phone before setting out.

Church and Pelíškova síň

The Evangelical Reformed Church in Semtěš was built in 1860–1862 and formally opened on 15 September 1867. Its organ dates from 1915. The construction period, formal opening, and year of the organ mark different stages in the history of the church building and can be distinguished chronologically.

Pelíškova síň was also added in 1935 and later used as a winter prayer room. Here, a construction date is linked with a later history of use, offering another perspective on the town’s history.

Trails around Semtěš

The Stezka rytíře Rubína trail runs around Semtěš. Each of its stops features a description, an image, and a task. Visitors receive a worksheet as part of the admission fee; small rewards are given upon completing the tasks. This way, the route combines information and participation at its stops. Programme details may change; check the current arrangements before your visit.

Cycling route 4188 is classified as easy. On the Řečany nad Labem–Semtěš section, it runs via Podhořany to Pařížov. The classification provides an indication of the route’s difficulty, while the sequence of places describes its course.

A blue-marked hiking route connects Semtěš with Sovoluská Lhota. As route conditions can change, check the current trail course before setting out. The cycling route and hiking connection offer different ways to get around, by bike or on foot.

Plan your stay

Planning your stay involves checking different things in advance: Bašta can be visited by telephone arrangement; programme details for the trail may change, and changing conditions should be taken into account for the hiking route. The appointment, programme, and trail course relate to different aspects and each provide a specific point to consider when preparing for your visit.

Discover more destinations: Kluky, Chotusice, Vlastejovice, Samopše, Bohdaneč, Košice U Nepoměřic, Vrdy, Onomyšl

Return to the wider travel overview: Kutná Hora District.