Ostrov
Ostrov, a picturesque town with approximately 17,000 inhabitants, lies on the Bystřice River, not far from Karlovy Vary and directly at the foot of the Ore Mountains, beneath their highest peak, Klínovec. Thanks to its location, it is an ideal starting point for trips to the mountains and subsequent relaxation treatments in the Karlovy Vary spa – a UNESCO spa triangle.
Ostrov Seven Centuries of Stories in One Place
Ostrov its roots in the early decades of the 13th century, when the Romanesque Church of St. James was built here – still the oldest building in the town. In the Middle Ages, it was a bustling trading town, later becoming the seat of noble families. In 1331, John of Luxembourg named it "the town of Ostrov." In the 15th century, Přemysl Otakar II incorporated it into the royal chamber towns and it became a serf town, owned by the Counts of Schlik. Their business, the profitable mining of silver, quickly transformed the small nearby settlement of Jáchymov into one of the richest towns in the country. Ostrov experienced its greatest fame Ostrov the 17th century, when it was transformed into a Baroque residence with a large park and a summer palace, which became an architectural gem.
In 1625, Ostrov Julius Heinrich of Saxe-Lauenburg acquired Ostrov and transformed it into his representative residence. The reconstruction and construction of Schlikovský Castle, the extensive castle park, the family burial chapel, and the nearby Piarist monastery with a Latin school are testimony to his generous building concept. Construction continued under the duke's son, Julius Franz, who completed the magnificent composition of the castle park, called the "eighth wonder of the world," with the construction of the Summer Palace in its center.
The 19th century saw industrial development, the construction of a railway, and the production of luxury porcelain by the famous Pfeiffer & Löwenstein Schlackenwerth porcelain factory. After World War II, the town grew significantly in connection with uranium mining in nearby Jáchymov – new housing estates and buildings were built, which today are typical examples of 1950s architecture, known as the SORELA style.
Today, Ostrov is Ostrov where you can enjoy the charm of its historic center, stroll through a Baroque park, visit a monastery complex, admire the unique architecture of the 1950s, or discover cultural events that enliven its streets throughout the year.
Tips for trips and interesting places
- Castle Park and Summer Palace Ostrov Art Gallery
- Monastery complex with unique 360° video mapping
- Borecké ponds and Moříčov hunting lodge
- House of Culture and SORELA
- Red Tower of Death – UNESCO
- The historic city center with the Old Town Hall
Ostrov a combination of history, culture, and active relaxation. Whether you want to go cycling in the mountains, stroll through the historic center, or relax in a spa, Ostrov will definitely not disappoint Ostrov .
Attractions
Stroll through streets steeped in history, discover treasures hidden in the castle gardens, and soak up the atmosphere of the Old Town. Discover the places that make Ostrov .
Monastery complex with unique video mapping
The Baroque heart of Ostrov, which is definitely worth a visit. The monastery complex will enchant you with its combination of history, art, and atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. You will walk through places where fascinating stories were written, and enjoy 360° video mapping in the Chapel of St. Anne – an experience that brings the Baroque to life with light. Guided tours will add context, bringing the whole place to life.
Red Tower of Death – UNESCO
One of the most striking monuments of modern history. The Red Tower of Death is an industrial monument commemorating the period when political prisoners worked in uranium camps in the area. A powerful place that will remain etched in your memory – and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a short detour from the cycle route, but well worth it.
Castle park with the Summer Palace and the Princes' Palace
A green oasis where stories of the Renaissance and Baroque meet the tranquility of picnic blankets. Ride through the avenues that once framed the "eighth wonder of the world" and discover the Summer Palace in the middle of the park – today an elegant exhibition hall with the atmosphere of the Italian countryside. The Princes' Palace adds a touch of nobility to the whole place.
House of Culture with SORELA exhibition
Ostrov also unique and modern in terms of its history. The new town was built in the SORELA style – the architecture of the 1950s, which today appears surprisingly clean, symmetrical, and iconic. Follow in the footsteps of this style at the newly renovated House of Culture, which combines the aesthetics of the 1950s with the latest technology. The SORELA exhibition will show you that architecture can be both a reflection of its time and a cultural experience.
Borecké ponds
Gentle waves, reeds, ducks, and a completely different rhythm than in the city. The Borecké ponds are the ideal place to shake off the miles, recharge your batteries, and enjoy the silence of nature. Easy terrain, beautiful scenery, and the perfect place for a stop that may end up lasting longer than planned.
Moříčov Hunting Lodge
Small, inconspicuous, but with an incredibly picturesque atmosphere. The Moříčov hunting lodge looks like a backdrop that has escaped from a romantic film. It stands so harmoniously in the landscape that for a moment you forget that you actually arrived by bike. A short stop, but a beautiful one.
Old Town, Old Town Hall, and castle grounds with exhibitions
The historic center of the town offers hungry cyclists exactly what they need: a bit of shade, some peace and quiet, and lots of interesting sights. The old town hall, Renaissance houses, and castle create a scene that captivates at first glance. In the attic of the castle, you will find an exhibition about the Schlik family – it would be difficult to find a dynasty in the region that has left a more significant mark. You can also hold a replica of the sword of the legendary executioner Mydlář, and in the Sala Terrena, you can take a multimedia tour of the castle gardens.
Plan your trip based on cultural experiences
Ostrov all year round – and your trip can be even more exciting if you plan it around key events. From the family-friendly Ota Hofman Children's Film Festival to the inspiring International Historical Symposium, Christmas in Ostrov, and summer concerts in the castle park – each stop offers a unique experience and is a great addition to a bike ride or a walk through the historic center.
The Ostrov experience more than just a trip
Ostrov the ideal destination for a trip full of discoveries, fun, and nature. It lies at the foot of the Ore Mountains between Karlovy Vary and Klínovec and offers a wide range of experiences for visitors of all ages.
This year belongs to the Schlik family in Ostrov. This noble family made a significant contribution to the development of the town, went down in world history, and gave its name to the US dollar. At Ostrov Castle, you can see stories about the Schlik family's wealth and power, or hold a replica of the sword of the legendary executioner Mydlář.
The Renaissance castle in Ostrov is surrounded by a large castle garden, once rightly called the eighth wonder of the world. Even today, its beauty will enchant you, not only from the Viewing Wall, where you can see it from above. Architecture lovers will be fascinated by the Summer Palace and the Palace of Princes. Children can feed squirrels or play on the playground. When you are pleasantly tired, stop by the Old Town Square, where you are sure to find something to your liking among the wide selection of picturesque cafés and pastry shops.
Fans of modern technology can borrow a tablet at the Na Zámku Information Center for time travel with augmented reality. An audio guide will welcome you to the castle garden exhibition, where you can view detailed visualizations and a film about the princess who contributed significantly to the prosperity of the Ostrov estate.
If you want to escape civilization, head to the outskirts of town to the Borecké ponds. The nature trail will guide you through the world of plants and animals, offering romantic nooks and spots for a family picnic. And if the weather permits, you can let off steam at the local swimming pool with a water slide and plenty of water attractions for all ages.
Thanks to its location near the Ore Mountains, Ostrov is also a Ostrov starting point for cycling trips— fromeasy routes suitable for the whole family to longer mountain circuits. Whether you want to discover history, play in nature, or experience moments of adventure together, Ostrov experiences you will remember for a long time to come.
