Chotenov can be linked to three specific themes for travel planning: cycling, landscape and local history. Cycling route 8558 is a 25 km circular route through Chotěnov and Olšany. The municipal area includes Golgota Hill and a protected area below it; the Toulovcovy Maštale protected area is nearby. In Olšany, historical connections and buildings add to the picture. The options differ in activity and geographical focus: a circular route through two named places, a hill with far-reaching views, and trails in a nearby protected area.

Golgota and the Nearby Natural Landscape

In the cadastral area of the municipality of Chotěnov, there is a protected area below Golgota Hill. Golgota is 515 m high and, in good weather, offers far-reaching views of the Chrudim region, the Giant Mountains, the Orlické Mountains, the mountains above Kladsko, the Jeseníky Mountains with Praděd, as well as Litomyšl and Polička.

The protected natural formation of Toulovcovy Maštale is located near Chotenov. It covers 1,083.6 ha and lies between Budislav, Proseč and Nové Hrady. A dense network of marked trails leads through the area and allows for circular walks. The landscape therefore offers two different focal points: far-reaching views from Golgota and walking trails in the protected area.

Cycling and Walking Compared

Cycling route 8558 is a 25 km circular route through Chotěnov and Olšany. The route has a clearly defined length; by contrast, a dense network of marked trails leads through the protected area and allows for circular walks. This is a concrete difference when choosing your main activity: a 25 km cycling loop on the one hand, and several possible circular walks on the other. Signage and surface conditions on the cycling route may change. Check both before setting off.

History and Buildings in Chotenov and Olšany

Chotenov is first mentioned in a document issued by Breslau Bishop Přeclav of Pogorella in 1347. In 1167, Vyšehrad Provost Hroznata had already donated Olšany to the Premonstratensians of Litomyšl. The two dates refer to different historical events: 1347 is the first documentary mention of Chotěnov, while 1167 is the date of Olšany’s donation.

The built landscape in Olšany also has specific historical features. The historic Voštice road runs along the western edge of the village, following the contours of the terrain. Olšany is also home to the Chapel of the Virgin Mary, which has a small wooden tower and dates from 1890. The road and chapel offer different ways to explore the village: a historic route through the landscape and a dated building.

The Chapel of the Most Holy Trinity is located in Chotěnov. As of 11 March 2018, only a pilgrimage Mass was celebrated there. If you plan to attend a service, check the current religious schedule before travelling.

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View the regional travel overview: Svitavy District.