Stráž pod Ralskem offers different perspectives for exploring the area: Vartenberk Castle and religious buildings, the history of uranium mining, and a cycling route that extends beyond the region. Historical dates give the town’s story definition; technology and cycling offer further topics to consider when planning your trip.
Castle, Chapel and Boží hrob
Vartenberk Castle lies on the northern edge of Stráž pod Ralskem. It was built by the Markvartici in the 13th century. The Chapel of St. John of Nepomuk was built in 1722. Boží hrob is located on Zámecký vrch. The castle and chapel represent different periods, while Boží hrob is identified by its location on the hill. The history of the buildings thus offers several points of interest, rather than a single date to follow.
Church and Market Square Through Different Periods
The first written record of St. Sigismund’s Church dates from 1363; between 1772 and 1779, it was rebuilt in the Baroque style. The dates refer to different events: 1363 marks the written record, while the later period marks the reconstruction. The plague column is a prominent feature of the elongated market square and was erected in 1682. In 1726, it was enhanced with a statue of the Virgin Mary and statues of Saints John of Nepomuk, Florian, Sebastian and Prokop. The column’s erection and later additions can therefore be viewed as distinct historical steps.
Town Museum and Mining History
The Town Museum building was built in 1912 as a German school. The Hornická expozice presents the history of uranium mining in the Česká Lípa area, particularly around Stráž pod Ralskem. Its outdoor area features mining and railway technology. The subjects differ in scale: the building represents a specific construction history and original use, while the exhibition places mining in its regional context. Those interested in the history of technology as well as religious buildings will find a different focus here.
Cycling Route and Other Activities
The Ploučnice Cycle Route 15 starts at the reservoir in Stráž pod Ralskem. It runs from the source of the Ploučnice at the foot of Ještěd to the river’s confluence with the Elbe near Děčín. The starting point and overall route provide different reference points: the route begins in the town, while the endpoints indicate its broader scope. Cycling is thus another way to plan a trip, alongside the historic buildings and mining history.
The Vehicle Hall in Stráž pod Ralskem is a covered park for BMX, skateboarding, inline skating and scooters. Check access and operating arrangements in advance. BIKE SPORT offers bicycle and scooter rentals, as well as bicycle servicing. The town also has the Přetejk boat rental service. Before your trip, check BIKE SPORT’s opening hours and availability, along with the current information from the boat rental provider; you should also check access to the Vehicle Hall in advance. The activities can be distinguished by their focus: wheeled sports, bicycle and scooter rentals, or boat rentals.
Practical Visit
The municipal tourist information centre sells maps and tickets for Vartenberk Castle. If you plan to visit the castle, check what the centre offers before your trip. This is a practical way to prepare for a visit to one of the town’s historic landmarks, without assuming set opening or visiting hours.
Discover more destinations: Chlum U Dubé, Žandov, Krompach U Cechách, Horní Libchava, Bohatice U Zákup, Radeč, Blíževedly, Okrouhlá U Nového Boru.
For the broader travel overview: Česká Lípa District.
