Castle Kost
- Private transfer for your group
- Flexible pick-up & return
- Prague ↔ Karlovy Vary transfer
- Professional English-speaking driver
- Personal tips & itinerary planning
- Distance: 125 km
- Duration: 8 h
- Basic Price: 170 €
Recommended for
- Lovers of real medieval architecture
- Visitors who want fewer crowds and more atmosphere
- Families with kids who love knights & dungeons
- Families with kids who love knights & dungeons
Why visit Castle Kost?
Hrad Kost may not have the fame of Karlštejn, but it has something better — raw authenticity. Built in the 14th century deep in a forested valley, its name literally means “bone” — and yes, it’s as solid as it sounds. With its asymmetrical towers, stone courtyards, and lack of cheesy tourist traps, Kost is the real deal for castle lovers who like their history served straight.
On the way to Castle Kost
Enjoy the ride
Your trip begins with a private pick-up in Prague, followed by a relaxing 1h 30min drive through the forests of the Bohemian Paradise. The last stretch winds into a hidden valley where the silhouette of Kost slowly emerges like a scene from a medieval movie.
Upon arrival at destination
You’ll join an official guided tour — from the Gothic chapel to the armory, prison, and torture chamber. There’s a small café for snacks, and time to explore the castle grounds, which feel more like a living ruin than a postcard set.
If your GPS says “you’re here” and you don’t see anything — look up. Castle Kost is hidden in a valley surrounded by forest. It doesn’t want to be found. That’s part of the charm.
If your GPS says “you’re here” and you don’t see anything — look up. Castle Kost is hidden in a valley surrounded by forest. It doesn’t want to be found. That’s part of the charm.
And the name? Locals say it's called “Kost” (“bone”) because it's as tough as one. You’ll believe it when you see those walls up close.
The Story of Castle Kost
Origin of the Castle Kost
Kost was built in the mid-14th century by the noble family of Beneš of Vartemberk. Unlike many hilltop castles, it was strategically placed in a valley to surprise and trap enemies. Its thick stone walls and triangular tower made it exceptionally hard to conquer — and it never was.
Over the centuries, it changed hands between powerful families, including the Lobkowicz and Czernin dynasties. Despite fires, wars, and time, Kost remains one of the best-preserved Gothic castles in the country.
Character & feeling of this place
This isn’t a Disney castle. It’s cold, echoey, a bit grim — and incredibly cool. Standing in the courtyard feels like you’ve walked into the past… and no one’s quite sure you belong there. Which is exactly the point.
Interesting facts
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The castle was never conquered in battle.
Thanks to its unusual location and strong defenses, Kost remained unconquered — a true fortress in every sense.
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Its triangular tower is unique in Europe.
Unlike traditional round or square towers, Kost’s triangle shape gave it strategic advantages and confused attackers.
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A skeleton was once found walled inside the chapel.
Whether it was punishment, ritual, or accident — no one knows. But it adds to the castle’s already mysterious vibe.
Amazing places of Castle Kost
Prices by Car
| Car Image | Car Name | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Škoda SuperbMaximum number of passengers: 4 | 170 € | |
|
VW TransporterMaximum number of passengers: 8 | 200 € | |
|
Mercedes E-classMaximum number of passengers: 3 | 200 € | |
|
Mercedes V-classMaximum number of passengers: 7 | 230 € |
Included
- Pick up at the address and time of your choice
- Spacious air-conditioned car, including water for the journey
- Good English speaking local driver
- Parking fee on site
Not Included
- Private guide - option to order (+1 seat in the car)
- Entrances to historical places, etc.
- Lunch or dinner