Nature Trail and Hiking Routes

The Údolím Vošmendy nature trail gives Jesenný a distinctive natural and cultural character. The loop can be walked in either direction, is 5.5 kilometres long, and follows blue- and green-marked hiking trails. It runs along the boundary of the municipalities of Bozkov, Jesenný and Roztoky u Semil. The loop, its length and the trail markings are useful points of reference when planning your hike; check the condition of the trail locally before setting out.

The trail offers exceptional views of the Ještědsko-kozákovský Ridge, the Jizera Mountains and the western Krkonoše Mountains. It also explores the history of how the valley was used: it provides information about the historic mining and processing of limestone and iron ore, traces of which are still visible today. The landscape views and evidence of past work are thus among the impressions along the same route.

Another hiking option is the Palackého Trail. Starting in Tanvald, it passes through Jesenný and Bohuňovsko at kilometre 13. Between Jesenný and Podspálov, it includes a four-kilometre section. This distinction is important when choosing your route: the 5.5 kilometres of the nature trail refers to the loop, while the four kilometres of the Palackého Trail refers to a section between two places. Check current trail conditions there as well before setting off.

Castle and Chapel

The Renaissance fortress of Jesenný was converted into an early Baroque castle; the castle dates from 1664. In 1715, a castle chapel dedicated to Saint John the Baptist was added. The 1715 castle chapel should be distinguished from the Chapel of the Elevation of the Holy Cross (Povýšení sv. Kříže), a separate building on Kalvárie Hill.

The octagonal Chapel of the Elevation of the Holy Cross (Povýšení sv. Kříže) was built in 1734 by Maxmilián Rudolf Lamotte von Frintrop. It stands in the upper part of Jesenný on Kalvárie Hill. In front of it, six polychrome, or multicoloured, statues line a brick balustrade. The chapel’s basic shape, location and statues give it a distinctive architectural character. At the castle, the conversion and later addition of the castle chapel reflect different stages in its history.

Getting There and Planning Your Visit

Jesenný railway station is on the Tanvald–Železný Brod railway line. If you plan to travel by train, check the current connections in the timetable. The castle grounds are freely accessible; check local conditions before your visit.

The Jesenný quarry lake is a freshwater quarry with a maximum depth of 13 metres. The private quarry can only be accessed through the base, and visits must always be arranged in advance. Confirm the access arrangements before you arrive.

Discover more destinations: Vyskeř, Ohrazenice, Benecko, Rovensko Pod Troskami, Rakousy, Valterice, Turnov, Žernov U Semil.

For the wider travel overview: Semily District.