The protected Church of the Holy Trinity, the Church of the Virgin Mary, menhirs and a 25-kilometre circular cycling route offer different ways to explore Zdoňov. A hike also leads to the ruins of the Church of the Virgin Mary on Kopeček. You can tailor your stay to your interests, whether cultural history, walking or cycling is your focus.
Churches and Local History
The Church of the Holy Trinity, together with its cemetery complex, is protected as a cultural monument of the Czech Republic. It was first mentioned as a parish church in 1384. At the end of the 16th century, it underwent extensive remodelling in the Renaissance style, probably to designs by the master builder Carlo Valmadi. The church thus combines an early mention as a parish church with a later, extensive building phase. Below the church, beside a bridge, stands the restored pillory of Zdoňov.
On a hill on the northwestern edge of Zdoňov stands the Baroque pilgrimage Church of the Virgin Mary, surrounded by a cemetery. The pilgrimage complex also includes the Chapel of St John of Nepomuk, set into the boundary wall. The Church of the Virgin Mary on Kopeček replaced a small wooden chapel in 1667 and was closed in 1786 during the Josephine reforms. A hike from Zdoňov leads via Druidský háj to the ruins of the Church of the Virgin Mary on Kopeček.
Stones, Menhirs and Hiking Destinations
Above Zdoňov stands Kamenný kříž s druidským hájem, a stone complex made up of 13 stones. The tallest are 4 to 4.5 metres high. Directly adjoining it, the Druids’ Grove consists of twelve oaks and eight birches. The path from Křížový vrch to Kamenný kříž passes the chapel and Svatý kopeček. Please observe current local path restrictions and notices about grazing animals.
A hiking route through Zdoňov passes the Zdoňovské menhiry in the Hrnčířské údolí valley. This art project is dedicated to wildlife: each stone represents a different animal and, at the same time, a different force or element. As you walk, the site reveals itself not only as a landscape destination, but also through the symbolic meaning of the individual stones.
Nearby, the Křížový vrch viewpoint is accessible year-round and lies outside the paid circuit through the Adršpašské skály. Check local access conditions before setting out. The Křížová cesta nature reserve is also nearby: a rocky landscape on Křížový vrch where protected birds, including peregrine falcons, nest.
Cycling Loop and Border Crossing
The 25-kilometre Teplice nad Metují–Zdoňov/Loděnice–Mieroszów–Meziměstí–Vernéřovice–Teplice nad Metují circular cycling route is of moderate difficulty. From Teplice nad Metují, it follows the red cycle route 4036 to Zdoňov and then route 4020 to Meziměstí. Check the route and numbering again before your ride.
Another route runs from Buková hora along a cycle path to the border crossing and continues through the border village of Zdoňov to the town centre and the church. The Zdoňov–Łączna crossing can be used for visits to Poland; check its current operating status before travelling.
Plan Your Visit
The Kovářova kobyla restaurant in Zdoňov serves seasonal dishes made with regional ingredients. Check whether it is open before planning a visit. Biofarma Zdoňov runs agricultural weekends, work weeks and educational excursions for kindergartens; arrange these in advance. These offers are quite different from the walking routes and cultural destinations, so be sure to check dates separately when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Broumov, Mezilesí, Bukovice, Starkov, Dolany U Jaromere, Česká Čermná, Bozanov, Velký Třebešov.
For the overview of the wider area: Okres Náchod.
