Ring in the New Year with a rare, scenic hike to Czechia’s second-largest castle

Perched high above the lush Moravian countryside, Helfštýn Castle is a remarkable fusion of medieval ingenuity and modern architectural innovation. As the second-largest castle complex in Czechia after Prague Castle, it stands as a symbol of resilience, having weathered centuries of invasions, neglect, and natural decay.

Today, this 14th-century fortress near Týn nad Bečvou in the Přerov region is not just a relic of history but an award-winning revitalized landmark that continues to draw thousands of visitors annually—especially during the New Year’s hike, a cherished winter tradition.

Helfštýn’s transformation reflects a balance of historic preservation and modern architecture. By 2014, the Renaissance palace—the castle’s heart—faced closure due to severe safety hazards, including crumbling masonry. The subsequent restoration project, completed by Atelier-r between 2017 and 2020, has breathed new life into the ancient ruins.

The reconstruction introduced striking contemporary elements, such as glass roofing, corten steel footbridges, and polished concrete pathways, seamlessly integrated with the castle’s historic fabric.

The project, which won the Czech Architecture Award for 2021, allowed for showcasing twice the number of artifacts, focusing on the castle’s tradition of blacksmithing alongside archaeological artifacts and historical objects from the 18th to 20th centuries. 

The palace’s new design prioritizes accessibility and aesthetics, offering visitors elevated pathways that connect the ground floor to the upper levels of the ruins. These additions provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Moravian Gate Valley.

“Our concept...created an attractive sightseeing route that allows visitors to learn about the building's history and enjoy picturesque views from the footbridges on the upper levels, which once served as the roof,” write Atelier-r architects.

Innovative materials—from weathered corten steel that echoes the site’s blacksmithing heritage to translucent glass roofs that invite natural light—ensure that the new structures complement, rather than overshadow, the original architecture.

Every January, Helfštýn Castle becomes the focal point of an extraordinary event: the New Year’s climb. On the first Saturday of the year, thousands of hikers, history buffs, and families brave the winter elements to “conquer” the castle.

In 2024, the hike attracted a record-breaking 5,265 participants, despite challenging weather conditions. The effort required to clear snow, chip away ice, and salt the paths underscores the dedication of the castle’s staff in making the event a success. As Pavlína Jindrová, the castle’s spokeswoman, noted, “Despite the weather, there was a friendly and positive atmosphere—a testament to the castle’s enduring allure.”

While the New Year’s hike is a highlight, Helfštýn’s appeal extends throughout the year. After the winter closure, the castle reopens on weekends in March, offering self-guided tours through its expansive courtyards and award-winning Renaissance palace. In 2024, nearly 97,000 visitors explored Helfštýn, drawn by its medieval grandeur and contemporary design.

To read more about the event, which takes place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Jan. 4, 2025, visit the official Helfštýn site. Visitors can also explore Helfštýn Castle completely free of charge on Friday, April 18, 2025. Special free admission is provided throughout the day as part of the International Day for Monuments and Historic Sites.