Šaunštejn / Schauenstein Castle

Very nice place. Parking ~1.5km away.
Don't forget to visit another object 500m away. The mala Pravcicka brana

Impressive, short walk from the parking, short climb up. Very steep with ladders, not for everyone.

Amazing rock with a very interesting history. The ladder is quite steep, we had to leave the backpacks down for easier access.

Takes 30 minutes from the car park and 10 minutes from the first ladder to the top. It's pretty steep to get up.

Amazing view on top of the rocks and the forest west of the rocks is also beautiful. (The part between the road and Saunstejn). Climbing to the top could be hard for older people and very young kids. There are steep ladders and narrow passages

Unbelievable viewpoint. I assume it's a pretty safe bet for a third date.

Ah, Šaunštejn Castle - a misnomer that has charmed and intrigued many an adventurer, including yours truly. Before we delve into our tale, it's crucial to unveil the curtain of misconception - this 'castle' isn't a castle at all. Rather, it's a glorious rock formation whose imposing presence and lofty perch in the heart of Bohemian Switzerland are reminiscent of a bygone fortress. The setting for our tale was quite literally 'cast in stone'.

Our journey commenced on the same well-worn path that leads to Malá Pravčická brána. Our hearts were abuzz with the thrill of discovering yet another of nature's secrets. As the path meandered through lush foliage, we eagerly anticipated our rendezvous with the 'castle' that wasn't.

As we neared Šaunštejn, a slight tingle of anticipation swept through us. How curious it is, that Mother Nature, with her deft hands and centuries of time, can mould a mere rock formation to bear such a striking resemblance to a fortress! Now, that's an artist worthy of the highest acclaim.

Reaching the summit, however, presented a delightful challenge. The castle could only be conquered via narrow ladders and walkways, each rung and step leading higher into the realm of the clouds. A touch precarious, perhaps, but it reminded us that even the most magnificent spectacles require a touch of effort, a pinch of daring, to be fully appreciated.

Upon breaching the summit, the reward for our labours was more than ample. The view was nothing short of splendid. It was as if we were perched atop a stone sentinel, keeping watch over a kingdom of green and blue. To stand there, with the wind in your hair and the panorama etched into your soul, was to truly understand the castle's allure.

Šaunštejn Castle, with its grand stature and regal air, stands as a testament to the whimsy of nature's craft. Even as part of the crowd treading the popular path to Malá Pravčická brána, one can't help but deviate towards this sandstone marvel. And though it's not a castle in the traditional sense, it offers a kingdom of experiences that leaves one feeling positively royal.

So, lace up those boots and steady your nerves, dear adventurer. The journey to Šaunštejn Castle is an excursion worth every daring step. You might come for the castle, but you'll stay for the captivating journey and the breathtaking spectacle of nature's grandeur on display.

Impressive. Very steep ladder / steps to get to the top

Well, I didn’t expect this place to be that exciting. First of all - think twice about going there if you are scared of heights. It’s rather terrifying as you climb the steep ladders and everything what supports you from falling down it’s just a small metal barrier 😉 But the views from the top are amazing. I could admire them after about 5 minutes of recovering from the climbing bit 😁

Super

Wow 😮

Awesome sandstone object with unique view on the local area. Previously, it was known as a bandit castle. It is not the easiest to get on the top, but do not be afraid. The best is it is quickly reachable in few minutes from the close parking area in Vysoka Lipa next to the restaurant Restaurace U Loupežáku. Btw quite tasty beer there :)

Šaunštejn Castle (German: Schauenstein, also Hohenleipaer Raubschloss) is a rock castle near Vysoká Lípa (Hohenleipa) in the Bohemian Switzerland in the Czech Republic. Today only a few ruins remain of the original castle. Preserved are the foundations of the wooden superstructure, several rooms that were chiselled-out of the rock and the cistern.

Amazing views, interesting climb up to the top.
Not accessible by wheelchairs or infirm due to ladder access

Absolutely worth the trip

Formerly a castle and base of highwaymen, today it's a beautiful observation point with lots of sandstone rocks.

Real hiking route here. Need some courage for those steep stairs.

Super

Rather uncomfortable to climb, but in my opinion the best view around

Super