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Hiking Tips for Day Trips A Trip to Bakov nad Jizerou to See the Trains and the Ruins

A Trip to Bakov nad Jizerou to See the Trains and the Ruins

A Trip to Podhradí and Zvířetice

Head to Podhradí, a neighborhood of Bakov nad Jizerou. This trip will delight lovers of technology and history alike. Here you’ll find a unique garden railway, and just a short distance away, the majestic ruins of Zvířetice Castle.

The Garden Railway in Podhradí

This 225-mm-gauge railway will delight not only children but also adult rail enthusiasts.

  • What you’ll see: On a 170-meter-long oval track, you’ll see model steam locomotives like the “Šlechtična,” “Kafemlejnek,” and “Skaličák,” as well as diesel locomotives like “Zamračená” and “Zapalovač.”
  • Facilities: The complex includes a working turntable for locomotives and a small station with light signals.
  • Hours of Operation: The railway does not operate continuously; it opens occasionally on weekends. You must arrange a tour in advance or check with the owner here.

Ruins of Zvířetice Castle

From Podhradí, follow the blue hiking trail. The ruins of Zvířetice Castle are just a few dozen meters away.

  • History: This is a historically protected site featuring the remains of a manor house from the late 13th century, built by the Lords of Lemberk.
  • Views: The site includes an observation tower offering a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside.
  • Accessibility: The ruins are freely accessible year-round. On select days, guided tours are also available.

How to Get There by Train with IDOL

Although Bakov nad Jizerou is located in the Central Bohemian Region, you can fully use the IDOL fare here (when traveling from the direction of Česká Lípa or Turnov). You have two options for where to get off:

  1. Bakov nad Jizerou Station (Recommended) It’s about an 800-meter pleasant walk from the station to Podhradí. Trains stopping here include:
  1. Bakov nad Jizerou (town) stop: If you’re traveling on line R21 from Turnov, you must get off at this stop. Keep in mind, however, that the walk to Podhradí from here is longer—over 2 km.