Who Was the Monstrous Lord Radouš?

Radouš was a cruel nobleman who lived at the castle many centuries ago. He was born with a very strange and frightening physical appearance. Legend says he had long donkey ears and a thick goat beard. This deformity made him hide away from the rest of the world.

His heart was as ugly as his face according to local stories. He treated his servants with great malice and showed no mercy. Most people in the Plzeň region feared his name for generations. His anger grew deeper every year he spent inside the dark tower.

The local villagers believed he was cursed from the moment of birth. Some said his mother was frightened by a farm animal during pregnancy. Others claimed that dark magic was involved in his creation. These stories still fascinate travelers who visit the site in 2026.

Today, you can see statues and paintings of this legendary figure. Many artists depict him with his signature donkey ears and angry eyes. Learning about his life adds a layer of mystery to the ruins. It makes the cold stone walls feel alive with ancient secrets.

The Dark Legend of Radouš at Radyně Castle

The core of the legend involves his search for a perfect family. Radouš married seven different women during his long and lonely life. However, each marriage ended in a terrible and bloody tragedy. He killed every wife who gave birth to a deformed child.

He hoped to have a son who looked like a normal man. Sadly, every one of his children inherited his donkey ears. This drove the lord into a state of permanent madness. He eventually buried his wives and children beneath the castle floors.

The story ends with a massive storm that destroyed the castle. Lightning struck the tower while Radouš was hiding in the cellar. He was buried alive under the heavy stones of his home. You can find more details on the Visit Plzeň tourism website.

Locals claim that his ghost still wanders the ruins at night. Some hikers report hearing strange noises coming from the deep well. They say the spirit of Radouš is still looking for his wives. It is a haunting tale that stays with every visitor.

The legend of Radouš at Radyně Castle serves as a dark warning. It tells us that cruelty always leads to a lonely end. Many families enjoy telling this story while walking through the woods. It is a vital part of the local Bohemian culture.

Planning Your Radyně Castle Ruins Hike

A hiking trail to Radyně Castle is perfect for active travelers. The path leads you through beautiful forests and rocky terrain. Most hikers start their journey in the small town of Starý Plzenec. The climb is steady but manageable for most fitness levels.

You should wear sturdy shoes for the uneven forest paths. The trail is well-marked with traditional Czech hiking signs in 2026. You will see green and yellow markers on the trees. These guides ensure you stay on the correct path to the ruins.

• Bring at least one liter of water for the climb.
• Pack a light snack to enjoy at the castle summit.
• Carry a camera for the panoramic views of Plzeň.
• Check the weather forecast before you leave your hotel.

The hike takes about one hour from the train station. You will pass several interesting rock formations along the way. These spots are great for taking a short rest and photos. The fresh forest air makes the physical effort very rewarding.

Once you reach the top, the castle ruins appear suddenly. The tall tower dominates the skyline and looks very impressive. It is the perfect place to imagine the legend of Radouš. The atmosphere is especially spooky during the foggy morning hours.

Visiting Radyně Castle Ruins in 2026

Radyně Castle is a popular destination for tourists visiting West Bohemia. The site is open to the public during the warmer months. In 2026, the main season runs from April until October. You can explore the courtyard and the tall lookout tower.

The Radyně Castle tower entrance fee is very affordable for families. Adult tickets usually cost around 100 Czech koruna at the gate. Children and seniors often receive a discount for their visit. The view from the top is worth every single penny.

You can see the entire city of Plzeň from the balcony. On clear days, the Bohemian Forest is visible in the distance. This is a top spot for landscape photographers in the region. You can find more travel tips on the Visit Czechia portal.

There is a small refreshment stand near the castle entrance. You can buy cold drinks and traditional Czech sausages there. It is a great place to relax after your hike. Many visitors spend at least two hours exploring the entire site.

How to Reach Radyně Castle from Plzeň

Getting to the castle from the city center is very easy. You can take a local train to Starý Plzenec station. Trains run frequently throughout the day from the main station. The ride takes less than fifteen minutes through the countryside.

If you prefer driving, there is a parking lot nearby. Follow the signs for Losiná and then toward the castle hill. The drive from Plzeň takes about twenty minutes in total. Parking fees are usually quite low during the week.

Cyclists will also find many great paths to the ruins. The region is famous for its well-maintained network of bike trails. You can rent a bicycle in Plzeň for the day. It is a healthy way to see the local landscape.

Walking all the way from Plzeň is also an option. This longer trek takes about three hours for experienced walkers. It follows the scenic river valley before climbing the hill. This route offers the most complete nature experience for visitors.