Stráž pod Ralskem: Cultural History and Cycling

When looking for a hotel in Stráž pod Ralskem, it is worth first considering whether you would like to focus your stay on architectural history, historic town landmarks, or cycling and skating. The town offers a range of themes: Vartenberk Castle, churches and monuments, the region’s mining history, and the Ploučnice cycle route. The places and activities below provide a more concrete basis for choosing the focus of your trip.

Castle, Churches, and Monuments

Vartenberk Castle stands on the northern edge of Stráž pod Ralskem. It was built by the Markvartici in the 13th century, making its construction an early chronological reference point for the town’s other historical landmarks. The Boží hrob was built on Zámecký vrch, and the Chapel of St. John of Nepomuk was built in 1722. Alongside the medieval castle, the chapel adds a distinctly later feature, dating to the 18th century.

The first written record of the Church of St. Sigismund dates to 1363. Between 1772 and 1779, it was remodelled in the Baroque style. These dates describe different stages: an early written mention and a later architectural change. The plague column, erected in 1682, is a prominent feature of the elongated market square. In 1726, a statue of the Virgin Mary and the four saints John of Nepomuk, Florian, Sebastian, and Prokop were added to it.

Mining History and the Town Museum

The town museum building was constructed as a German school in 1912. The Mining Exhibition covers the history of uranium ore mining in the Česká Lípa area, particularly around Stráž pod Ralskem. Its outdoor area displays mining and railway equipment. This offers a different perspective from the religious buildings and monuments: the focus here is on regional industrial history, while the museum building itself is also interesting for its former use.

Cycling and Other Activities

There are also opportunities for physical activity in the area. The Vehicle Hall in Stráž pod Ralskem is an indoor park for BMX, skateboarding, inline skating, and scooters. If you include it in your travel plans, check its public access and operating arrangements in advance.

For cyclists, Cycle Route 15 along the Ploučnice begins at the reservoir in Stráž pod Ralskem. It runs from the source of the Ploučnice at the foot of Ještěd to where the river meets the Elbe near Děčín. The starting point in town and the route described between the source and the river’s mouth provide a geographical framework for planning your ride.

BIKE SPORT in Stráž pod Ralskem offers bicycle and scooter rentals, as well as bicycle servicing. Check its current operating status and the availability of the service you want before your trip. Stráž pod Ralskem also has the Přetejk boat rental; check the details and availability in advance.

The municipal tourist information centre sells maps and tickets for Vartenberk Castle. Check the details of what is on offer in advance if you are planning to buy a ticket.

Discover more destinations: Vrchovany, Radeč, Česká Lípa, Prachen, Dubá, Bezděz, Zákupy, Noviny pod Ralskem.

For the wider travel overview: Česká Lípa District.