For a stay in Dešenice, you can choose between cultural and historical discoveries and routes through the Šumava landscape. The parish church of Kostel sv. Mikuláše and the fortress with its brewery museum bring the town’s history to life; routes to the Městišťská rokle Nature Reserve, cycling routes through forests, and an educational trail appeal to other interests. Deciding whether architectural history, brewing culture, or nature should take center stage can help you plan the character of your stay.

The church and details of the townscape

The parish church of Kostel sv. Mikuláše dates from the mid-14th century. The complex includes the church itself, tombstones, a perimeter wall, a Baroque gate, and a mortuary chapel. The church site therefore encompasses more than just the church building. Those interested in historical architectural styles will find a church of medieval origin and a distinctly Baroque feature: the gate.

Another cultural detail is Kámen doteku, a smoothly worked stone that invites visitors to touch it. It is located to the left of the entrance to Tvrz Dešenice, beside the statue of Saint John of Nepomuk in the fortress wall. The entrance and statue provide precise landmarks for its location. The stone is thus situated within the fortress wall and should not be considered separately from the fortress.

Tvrz Dešenice: museum and architectural history

The historic Tvrz Dešenice, also called the castle, houses the Muzeum šumavského pivovarnictví Dešenice. It offers insights into the history of brewing in the Šumava region. The museum includes a reconstructed historic taproom. The fortress’s architectural history also brings together different eras: in the mid-18th century, it was extensively renovated in the Baroque style without losing its Renaissance character. A brewery was later established there. The museum’s subject and the building’s history thus bring together the region’s brewing heritage and the architecture of the fortress.

Opening hours and visiting arrangements may change. Check the latest information before visiting the museum, especially if you would like to see the reconstructed taproom.

Dešenice is one of six Czech municipalities taking part in the cross-border Kámen doteku project. The other Czech municipalities are Chudenín, Hamry, Nýrsko, Strážov, and Všeruby. On the Bavarian side, Eschlkam, Lam, Neukirchen b.Hl.Blut, Arrach, and Lohberg are participating. The local stone is therefore part of a joint project that extends beyond Dešenice.

Routes into the landscape

Routes from Dešenice lead to the Městišťská rokle Nature Reserve. Cycling routes run through the deep forests of the Šumava, with viewpoints along the way. The two types of routes offer different focuses: the routes to the nature reserve have a specific natural destination, while the cycling routes highlight forest scenery and views.

Another option is the Po stopách formanů educational trail. The loop starts and ends at Dešenice railway station. Information boards are located at seven stops. Unlike the cycling routes, this trail has a specified starting and return point. Local trail conditions may change, and individual boards may need maintenance, so check current conditions before setting out.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Depoltice, Městiště, Dražovice, Měčín, Dlouhá Ves U Susice, Annín, Švihov U Klatov, Bukovník

For the broader travel overview: Okres Klatovy.