Vidochov lies 5 km northeast of Nová Paka on the road to Hostinné. Churches, nearby trails, and geological and mining-history topics offer different starting points for planning a trip. Consider whether you would like to focus more on architectural history, hiking and cycling, or mineral deposits. This will help you choose which interests to prioritize during your stay.
Churches: Architectural History and Architecture
The Church of the Guardian Angels stands on the road from Vidochov to Stupná, on the left-hand side, and is a distinctive building in the lower part of the municipality. On its northeast side is a three-storey ashlar tower with a pyramidal roof. Triangular ventilation openings are located in the middle section; at the top are a tower finial and a Latin cross. Its location and tower design give the building a distinctive architectural accent: alongside its relationship to the road, the tower’s structure and its top are particularly striking.
The Church of St. Mary Magdalene is notable for its architectural history and the church complex as a whole. The Carthusians from Valdice built the church between 1717 and 1719; the master builder was Václav Heldt. The complex also includes a mortuary built into the perimeter wall opposite the entrance gate, as well as a central cross in the cemetery. The site therefore comprises more than just the church building: the mortuary’s position in the wall and the cross at the center of the cemetery are also part of its described layout. By comparison, the Church of the Guardian Angels offers a distinctive focal point, especially with its striking tower.
Hiking Trails and Kozinec Lookout Tower
Numerous hiking and cycling trails run through the area around Vidochov. Hiking and cycling are two ways to explore the region; when planning your trip, you can decide which better suits your interests. One named destination is Kozinec Lookout Tower. It opened to the public in 2009. The tower can be reached from the Nová Paka – město ČD stop or Horka u Staré Paky railway station via the green-marked hiking trail and a paved turnoff. This identifies two starting points and the described route to the same destination. Check current access to the tower before your visit.
Geology and Mining History
The so-called Vidochovský lom quarry is a geological site where chalcedony, agates, and varieties of quartz, including smoky quartz, are found. These mineral names give the geological theme a specific focus and distinguish it from the churches and nearby trails. If you are interested in rocks and minerals, Vidochov offers another starting point for planning your trip, in addition to architecture and outdoor activities.
A historical perspective on mining can also be found at the northeastern edge of the Vidochov valley: the shafts and tunnels of the “Marie Matky” mine were located there. This differs from the precisely dated architectural history of the Church of St. Mary Magdalene. Together, the two topics illustrate different historical focuses: sacred architecture on the one hand, and mining at the edge of the valley on the other.
Discover more destinations: Lukavec U Hořic, Konecchlumí, Samšina, Střevač, Úlibice, Jeřice, Kumburský Újezd, Rašín.
See the regional travel overview: Jičín District.
