Chrudim is nicely renovated medieval town in eastern Czechia and a convenient starting point for exploration of the northern part of the protected area Železné hory (Iron Mountains). We did explore the western part earlier. It is convenient to park in the middle of the town close to the Church of Assumption of the Virgin Mary on the town square where the parking is free on weekends and holidays.
Before you will reach the forests of Železné hory, you should not miss the interesting instalations at point 7. Well, the dinosaur skeleton was not actually found here, but it is nice to see it as if it would have been found here… It is called “Lom plný zkamenělin” and it is the former quarry, in which a geological educational trail focused on the prehistoric seabed that was located there was built.
Another point which you cannot miss is Rabštejnek Castle – the ruin of the castle which is being renovated by a bunch of enthusiasts. They will even be happy to show you their work if you will be interested and they will be around. They are actually able to live there already – the roof is in place. However, you cannot bike from 11 to 12, you have to push your bike uphill.
After Rabštejn you will be riding through pleasant forests all the way to Kočičí Hrádek (Kitten’s Castle) at point 20. This tiny castle was built in 1900 as an entertainment for kids of noble family Ausperg.
At point 21 you will join the river Chrudimka and follow it all the way to Chrudim. In Slatiňany, you may stop for a refreshment at point 22 (excellent lívance are strongly recommended). From 23 you can return to your car, or follow the map to explore this town in detail. But in any case do not miss the statue of Josef Ressel a forester and inventor, who designed one of the first working ship’s propellers.
https://en.mapy.cz/s/lonubutozu 36 km with 400 m elevation gain. To see this E-bike trip in context, check our interactive maps.
