The Starosedlsky Hradek (Old Castle) is situated on a lakeshore in the picturesque rustic setting of Central Bohemia just an hour's drive away from Prague, the historic and architectural jewel of Europe. Built originally in the 14th century, the castle has been rebuilt twice throughout its history and in its present appearance the complex exists since 1669. The castle has had several changes of owners and at different times belonged to the local aristocracy, the Catholic Jesuit society (which used the castle as their summer residence) and a well-known Austrian aristocratic family of Schwarzenbergs. The early baroque style has left its touch on the external appearance of the castle as well as on its structure such as the meter-thick walls, massive oak beams and arch ceilings. The castle basement is suitable for wine storage. All the furniture is handmade from mahogany. In 1999 the castle underwent a complex reconstruction and was turned into a luxury hotel and spa. It served in that capacity for several years during which it played host to eleven weddings, two period dramas and one royal hunt.

The castle is located in a low hill district near a tiny village whose residents are mainly occupied with agriculture. The region is free from factories and has a mild climate with moderate summer and winter temperatures. The lake was created in the 15th century to be used for fish breeding, and is still used for these purposes today – it’s inhabited by a vast quantity of carps. Guests of the castle are welcome to fish and swim in the lake; there are pathways leading from the castle down to and along the shore; a little boat is also available for those who want to explore this beautiful lake further. The forest on the waterfront is inhabited by deer, boars and wild goats; hunting is permitted in season. When it was still used as a hotel, the castle was rented out completely for 13-14 weekends a year by aristocratic families from Austria, Germany, Italy and Switzerland that used it as their base for hunting in the nearby forests.

One hour's drive from Prague and all the cultural splendours it has to offer, the castle is also five minutes away from Pribram, the center of historic Bohemia and home to a famous cathedral and pilgrimage site. Numerous music festivals are held there during the summer, the children will enjoy its knight tournaments and the adults can nip down to the Breznice Castle Brewery.

Located in the yard of the castle is a serene Japanese garden with a small pond and streams. The castle grounds also include a 15th century chapel of Holy Trinity, which holds religious services for the residents of the village. During the 1999 reconstruction an ancient hoard has been recovered containing paintings and other religious items some of which are on display at the castle.

The castle's attractions include: home cinema, snooker room, fully-equipped chef-grade kitchen, a highly decorated bar area, two saunas with dipping pools, a large tub equipped for therapeutic body massage, a fitness centre and a photo-therapy light bed.

Since the castle used to be a luxury hotel, we are used to accommodating many requests. If you have something specific in mind (horse riding lessons, an evening out in Prague opera, a romantic hot air balloon ride or a knight tournament held on the castle grounds) please let us know in advance and we'll do our best to make it happen.

Some of the optional services we provide are: babysitting, concierge, private transportation, security guard, maid and chef.