Discover Krajníčko: Helfenburk, history and traditions

Two clear points of reference can guide your stay in Krajníčko: the history of the Helfenburk Castle ruins and the dates of local community events. Routes take in the village itself or its surroundings.

Helfenburk and the trails

The well-preserved Helfenburk Castle ruins lie within the cadastral area of Krajníčko, about 2 km southwest of the village. They stand on a rocky cliff at an elevation of about 680 m above sea level and have been protected as a cultural monument since 1963. There are several marked approaches to choose from: Helfenburk can be reached via a blue-marked hiking trail from the road between Volyně and Bavorov, or directly from Bavorov; a red-marked trail leads there from Husinec. Check the current condition of the trails before your visit, as trail conditions may change.

Route No. 1112 leads from the castle through Krajníčko and onward to Bavorov. Another route description takes you from Helfenburk via Krajníčko, Měkynec, Záluží and Radějovice and back. The distinction is useful when planning: the marked approaches lead to the castle, while Route 1112 places Krajníčko on the stretch between the castle and Bavorov.

Local history

The first written mention of Krajníčko dates from 1334. Historically, the village belonged to the Helfenburk estate, whose history is also considered part of the village’s history. A Neo-Gothic chapel stands in the village square; it was reconsecrated after a gradual restoration. Alongside the castle ruins, it provides another cultural point of interest within the village.

Events throughout the year

The traditional New Year’s Day hike to Helfenburk Castle started at the municipal office on New Year’s Day in both 2025 and 2026. The traditional Stavění máje, or Maypole raising, took place at the outdoor swimming pool grounds in Krajníčko in 2025 and 2026. A pilgrimage Mass was celebrated in the Chapel of St John of Nepomuk in May 2025 and May 2026. If you would like to plan a future trip around an event, check the date for the year you have in mind. The hike took place on New Year’s Day, while the Maypole raising and pilgrimage Mass were held in May.

At Řízkobraní 2026, schnitzels and meat patties made from venison, wild boar, fallow deer, red deer, chicken, fish and pork were offered. Vepřové hody took place on 25 April 2026 at the outdoor swimming pool grounds; visitors could sample traditional home-slaughter specialties there.

Sports and leisure

The Krajníčko sports and recreation area is on the edge of the village, in the direction of Helfenburk. The nohejbal court there is intended exclusively for recreational sports. So, alongside historic attractions and marked trails, visitors will find local events connected with recreational sports.

Discover more destinations: Chobot, Dřešín, Předmíř, Horní Poříčí, Nišovice, Mutěnice, Libětice, Volyně.

For the broader travel overview: Strakonice District.