Forest reserves, marked trails and the history of the spa complex give a trip to Vráž several possible focal points. When planning, it is worth considering the forest landscapes, specific trail destinations and cultural connections separately: this way, you can decide whether nature or history should be the main focus of your stay.
Forest areas with different characteristics
The Hrby Nature Reserve was designated in 1973 and covers 26.77 hectares, with the aim of protecting natural submontane lime-beech forests. Čertova hora has been protected since 1985 and covers 13.87 hectares. It contains a remnant of old-growth deciduous forest with oaks, limes and beeches; it also includes a herb layer with characteristic plant species.
The two protected areas also differ in size: at 26.77 hectares, Hrby is almost twice as large as Čertova hora, at 13.87 hectares. Within the municipality of Vráž, the Žlíbky u Vráže Nature Reserve lies on the left bank of the Otava in a deeply incised river valley. Alongside the forest landscapes, the river and valley are therefore specific natural features to enjoy during your stay.
Hiking trails and their destinations
An older visitor leaflet for Route TV 8 describes a yellow-marked hike from the railway station, past Novovrážský rybník and towards Doupata. A green-marked hike on the route leads to the Žlíbky u Vráže Nature Reserve; a blue-marked one leads to the Čertova hora Nature Reserve. The destinations mentioned are quite different: one route description points to the river valley on the Otava, the other to the forest area of Čertova hora. As the leaflet is older, check the current trail markings before setting out.
Another trail option is the red-marked Sedláčkova cesta, which can be reached from the junction near Vráž railway station. Check the current signs before following this marking. Nová Vráž is also a waypoint on the Sedláčkova stezka; consult current maps for the route as it runs today. A cycling loop starts and ends at Nová Vráž railway station. For the bike ride, also check current road conditions and route signs.
Spa history and travel planning
The municipality of Vráž is home to the Lázně Vráž spa complex, which is based in a Lobkowicz castle. The castle was built in 1875 in the Neo-Gothic style. The castle and the treatment and accommodation pavilions added to it are surrounded by an English-style park and woodland. In addition to the forest reserves and hiking trails, the historic castle and park provide another cultural feature to consider when planning your trip.
For Route TV 7, an older route suggestion lists train connections from Písek to Čížová and from Vráž to Písek. As this information comes from an older tour description, check current train services before travelling. This lets you plan your journey without assuming that the connections listed are part of today’s timetable.
If you are looking for a holiday apartment for your stay in Vráž, decide on the focus of your trip based on whether you primarily want to explore the forest reserves and trails or also take the spa complex’s history into account. The different trail destinations and the cultural connection provide specific starting points.
Discover more destinations: Kostelec Nad Vltavou, Drahenicky, Putim, Dobev, Protivin, Boudy, Jestrebice, Hrazany.
Go to the overview of the wider region: Okres Písek.
