Holštejn combines the remains of a medieval castle with a distinctive karst landscape. It lies in the northeastern part of the Moravian Karst Protected Landscape Area and is surrounded by the rock formations of the Bílá voda Nature Reserve. Holštejnské údolí and the active, open ponor of Bílá voda also define the area. A visit can therefore focus on several things: the history of the castle, as well as the valley, rocks and water.

Holštejn Castle: Foundation and First Mention

Holštejn Castle was founded in the 13th century by Hartman of Ceblovice. Its first documented written mention dates from 1268. These two details mark different historical reference points: the 13th century is the period when the castle was founded, while 1268 is the date of the first written record. The castle remains can be seen along the marked hiking trail. For hikers, they provide a historical landmark along the route.

Karst Landscape, Valley and Ponor

Holštejnské údolí is filled with Quaternary fluvial sediments—deposits left by flowing water during the Quaternary period. Both the valley and Holštejnská jeskyně are geotouristically interesting geotopes. The sediments describe how the valley floor was filled; the geotope classification highlights the geological interest of the valley and cave. Propadání Nová Rasovna is an active, open ponor of Bílá voda. A ponor is a place where water drains underground in a karst landscape. About 1 km southwest of the village, on the Holštejn–Sloup road, is the disused Malá Dohoda stone quarry.

Marked Trails and Routes

The marked trail from Holštejn leads west to Šošůvka and south to Ostrov u Macochy, as well as onward to other parts of the Moravian Karst. An excursion route through the Moravian Karst passes through the Holštejn climbing areas. Another excursion route from Holštejn follows the river onward to Baldovec. These route details offer different points of reference: the marked trail identifies directions and destinations, while the routes take in the climbing areas or the river. Check trail conditions before setting out; for the route toward Baldovec, also check the local signage.

Climbing and Access

Climbing at Holštejnská jeskyně is permitted year-round; the descent is by rappelling. Access details for the valley and the cave are separate: both are accessible without restrictions, and in each case, it is possible to drive to within 250 m. Climbing regulations may change. If you plan to climb, use designated access routes and check the current restrictions beforehand. This keeps the general access information clearly separate from the conditions for this activity.

Discover more destinations: Lipůvka, Bedřichov U Lysic, Svinošice, Kněževes, Ostrov U Macochy, Benešov U Boskovic, Borotín, Dolní Lhota

For the broader travel overview: Blansko District.