Pardubice Region Road Trip: Beyond Gingerbread and Horse Racing

Mention the Pardubice Region to most travellers and youll usually hear two things: gingerbread and the famous horse race. Both are worth experiencing, but they barely scratch the surface of what this remarkably diverse corner of Czechia has to offer. Within a few days you can climb medieval castles perched on rocky ridges, wander through UNESCO-listed streets, drive across rolling highlands, discover Celtic history, visit one of Europes oldest horse-breeding traditions and finish high above the clouds in the mountains. Better still, everything is connected by quiet scenic roads that make this region perfect for an unforgettable road trip.

Start in Pardubice, a city that effortlessly combines elegant Renaissance architecture with a relaxed atmosphere. Its colourful historic square, arcaded streets and impressive Green Gate invite slow exploration, while local cafés tempt you to sample the citys legendary gingerbread. Yet Pardubice is also inseparably linked with horses, a theme that will accompany you throughout much of this journey.

Only a few minutes away along road I/37 rises the unmistakable silhouette of Kunětická Hora Castle. Standing proudly on its volcanic hill above the flat Elbe lowlands, the castle commands panoramic views across the surrounding countryside. Local legends speak of hidden passages and forgotten treasures beneath the hill, while the climb itself rewards visitors with one of the finest viewpoints in eastern Bohemia.

Continue west through peaceful countryside towards Kladruby nad Labem, following I/37 and local roads. Here youll find the National Stud Farm, where elegant white Kladruber horses have been bred for ceremonial purposes for centuries. Watching these magnificent animals move gracefully through the historic landscape feels like stepping into another era. The surrounding avenues, canals and pastures are just as much part of the experience as the horses themselves.

Leave Kladruby behind and head south along I/2 to the romantic Žleby Chateau. Surrounded by an English park, the castle seems almost lifted from the pages of a fairy tale. Richly decorated interiors, towers and landscaped gardens create a wonderfully romantic atmosphere, while nearby deer reserves provide an unexpected encounter with majestic white deer.

Continue via I/17 into Chrudim, one of the Czech Republics hidden historic gems. Although less famous than many neighbouring towns, its beautifully preserved centre is full of colourful houses, quiet squares and charming cafés. Chrudim is also celebrated as the countrys capital of puppetry, adding an unexpected cultural twist to your visit.

From Chrudim, follow winding local roads into the forests of the Železné hory before reaching the Celtic Open-Air Museum in Nasavrky. Rather than simply displaying archaeological finds behind glass, this remarkable site recreates an authentic Celtic settlement where ancient crafts, traditions and daily life come alive. Its an experience that appeals equally to families and history enthusiasts.

Stay within the Železné hory Protected Landscape Area, where quiet roads weave through forests, rocky valleys and peaceful reservoirs. Compared with the crowded national parks elsewhere in the country, these hills remain refreshingly tranquil. Small villages, scenic viewpoints and hidden picnic spots make this one of the most enjoyable driving sections of the entire journey.

The road eventually leads to the atmospheric ruins of Košumberk Castle. Unlike many restored castles, Košumberk retains the romantic character of a genuine ruin. Thick stone walls overlook the surrounding countryside, creating exactly the sort of place where legends about knights and hidden treasures naturally belong.

Only a short drive away lies one of the regions true surprises: Nové Hrady Chateau. Often called the "Czech Versailles", this elegant Rococo residence is far less crowded than its more famous counterparts. Immaculate gardens, ornamental hedges, fountains and refined architecture create an atmosphere of aristocratic elegance that feels almost undiscovered.

Join road I/35 east towards Litomyšl, undoubtedly one of the jewels of the Pardubice Region. The UNESCO-listed Renaissance château dominates the town, but the surrounding arcaded square is equally enchanting. Music lovers will appreciate that the composer Bedřich Smetana was born here, while everyone else will simply enjoy the relaxed cafés, galleries and lively atmosphere that make Litomyšl one of the countrys most pleasant small towns.

Continue south on I/35 to the perfectly preserved medieval town of Polička. Built directly into the remarkably intact town walls, many houses seem almost inseparable from the ancient fortifications themselves. Climbing the church tower rewards visitors with sweeping views across the surrounding highlands, while wandering the narrow lanes reveals why Polička remains one of Czechias best-kept secrets.

The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as I/34 and I/43 climb into the wooded hills surrounding Svojanov Castle. Rising above a deep valley, Svojanov combines Gothic fortifications with later Renaissance elegance. Misty mornings lend the castle an almost mythical appearance, making it easy to imagine medieval guards watching the surrounding forests for approaching travellers.

From Svojanov, continue north-east via I/43 and I/11 towards Dolní Morava, where the landscape changes once again. Rolling hills gradually give way to the mountains, and suddenly the famous Sky Walk appears high above the valley. Walking along its spiralling wooden structure offers extraordinary panoramic views across the Králický Sněžník Mountains. For those seeking an extra thrill, the long suspension bridge and mountain trails provide even more reasons to linger.

Leaving the mountains behind, follow I/11 and I/14 south-west into the Orlice Valley. The romantic Potštejn Castle rises above the river and is inseparably connected with the legendary treasure of Count Chamaré. Treasure hunters searched these hills for generations, yet the greatest reward today is undoubtedly the magnificent view from the castle ruins.

Only a few kilometres away stands another masterpiece, Litice nad Orlicí Castle. Dramatically positioned above a bend in the Wild Orlice River, it perfectly illustrates why medieval builders always understood the value of spectacular scenery. Thick defensive walls blend naturally with the surrounding cliffs, while the views across the forested valley provide a fitting finale to this castle- filled journey.

Finally, follow I/11, join the D35 and continue back towards Pardubice, completing a circular route that showcases one of Czechias most underrated regions. From UNESCO heritage and forgotten castles to mountain panoramas, Celtic traditions, aristocratic estates and world-famous horses, the Pardubice Region offers extraordinary variety without the crowds. Its the kind of road trip that constantly surprises—and leaves you wondering why so few international visitors have discovered it.