Josefsdorf: Hiking and Hartenberg Castle

Explore Josefsdorf via hiking trails, a historic castle and traces of medieval mining. The routes described differ in length and focus; there are also cycling routes and destinations in the surrounding area. This can help you decide which themes you want to shape your stay before searching for a hotel.

Hiking trails and stops in Josefov

The Josefov circular hiking trail is 10.5 kilometres long and marked with yellow hiking signs. The educational trail for children has a short 5.5-kilometre option and a long 10.5-kilometre option. The longer distance is therefore listed for both separately described trails. When comparing them, consider not only the distance but also whether you would prefer a circular trail or the educational trail with its activities.

The children’s educational trail has seven stations with fun activities. The circular trail has a different focus: its 23 stations include natural attractions, viewpoints and commemorative trees, as well as places connected with the history of Josefov and its surroundings. The individual stations may change over time. The circular trail description thus brings together natural and historical points of interest, while the activities at the stations are highlighted on the educational trail.

Cyclists can also use two named routes for orientation. Cycle Route 2178 runs through Josefov along the road towards Krajková. Cycle Route 2179 follows the Habartov–Josefov–Hřebeny road connection.

Hartenberg Castle and the history of the village

The history of Josefov is closely linked to Hartenberk Castle, also known as Hartenberg and Hertenberg. According to historical accounts, the castle was founded in 1196 on the right bank of the Svatava, near an important trade route from Erfurt. This connection gives a visit to the castle a historical link to the village and its surroundings.

Hartenberg Castle can only be visited on a guided tour; seasonal arrangements may change. The main palace houses a permanent exhibition on ministerial castles. If you plan to visit the castle, check the current tour options beforehand. This will help you coordinate the visit with the other themes of your stay without assuming that unrestricted access is available.

Another historic building is the Chapel of St. Joseph. It was built in the Baroque style and restored with grants from the Karlovarský kraj and, in part, through a public collection. A nearby educational trail in Josefov also offers a chance to see surviving remains of medieval mining. These include numerous adits, collapsed shafts, bell pits, rows of bell pits and barren spoil heaps. These varied traces make the history of mining a distinct theme alongside the history of the castle.

Nature destinations in the surrounding area

About three kilometres from Josefov, Lake Medard is still being filled as part of the reclamation of the mining area. The area is currently a temporarily protected site and serves as a refuge for waterbirds. Check its current condition and protection status before travelling.

Another destination in the region’s natural setting is the Cibulka lookout tower on Šibeniční vrch near Oloví. It is freely accessible year-round and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area around Josefov therefore offers a range of different highlights: hiking trail stations in the village, the changing landscape around Lake Medard and the viewpoint near Oloví.

Geocaching as an additional activity

A municipal description updated on 26 April 2021 lists eight geocaches at interesting locations in Josefov and the nearby area under Josefovský Geocaching. Check whether the caches are available before your visit. Along with the marked trails and children’s educational trail, geocaching offers another reason to explore the places and themes around Josefov.

Discover more destinations: Luh Nad Svatavou, Schlaggenwald, Stríbrná, Königsberg A. D. Eger, Katzengrün, Brösau, Neusattl, Wintersgrün.

Go to the main travel overview: Bezirk Falkenau An Der Eger.