Chodov was established in the 18th century near the Gängerhof estate, which had already been founded in the 16th century. The estate is therefore the older point of reference in the history of the settlement. A Baroque chapel and an old memorial beech stand in the town centre; the basalt hill of Homolka lies near Chodov. Together, these places offer insights into the region’s history and landscape.

Landscape and nature

The entire municipality of Chodov lies within the Slavkovský les Protected Landscape Area. At the same time, the terrain is highly varied. The approximately 200-year-old Chodovský buk memorial beech stands in the town centre. It is about 18 metres tall and has a trunk circumference of 420 centimetres. These measurements give a concrete impression of this striking tree; they may change slightly over time.

Wildlife is also part of Chodov’s natural character: the area, which is significant on a European scale, is small but unusually rich and diverse in species. Frogs, snakes and butterflies can be observed there. This diversity adds a biological perspective to the landscape and offers a different viewpoint from the history of the settlement or the geological features of the surrounding area.

Chapel, pilgrimage and local history

The Baroque St. Anne’s Chapel, dedicated to Saint Anne, stands in the centre of Chodov. It is built into a slope on the left-hand side of the road to Bečov nad Teplou. Its architectural form is thus closely linked to its hillside setting. Every July, the traditional Svatoannenská pilgrimage takes place in the square in front of the chapel. Dates and programme may vary; if you wish to plan your visit around the festival, check the specific details for the year in question.

Another historical trace is Vitriolka, a former sheepfold from the 18th century in the forests northwest of Chodov. At the beginning of the 19th century, Anton Liewald of Pernink established a sulphuric acid production facility on the site; sulphuric acid was also known as vitriol. Thus, industrial beginnings followed the site’s earlier agricultural use. Since the 1980s, the site has also been home to a forester’s lodge, which continues to serve this function today.

Basalt on Homolka

The Homolka Natural Monument lies near Chodov. The basalt hill is evidence of Tertiary volcanic activity: its solid rock displays columnar formations and contains inclusions of the green mineral olivine. At the summit, the terrain rises about twelve metres above the surrounding area and offers a good view. There is a small platform there, approximately eight by three metres. Geology, elevation and views are three specific aspects of this same natural monument.

Cycling route and planning your visit

For cyclists, the signposted Cycling Route 2026 is a practical option: it runs from Karlovy Vary via Hlinky to Chodov u Bečova. Check the signs before setting out. Those including culture and nature in their travel plans can also consider the July pilgrimage as a possible date for their visit; as dates and the programme may vary, it is worth checking the latest announcement.

Discover more destinations: Schwarzenbach, Abertham, Landeck, Hochofen, Schönwald, Münchhof, Nové Hamry, Ostrov Nad Ohří.

Back to the regional travel overview: Karlovy Vary District.