12 Best Lochotín Park Hidden Paths and Sights

The northern side of Plzeň holds many secrets within its greenery. Lochotín Park was once a famous spa destination. Today, it serves as a massive green lung for the city. These specific spots will help you see the park like a local. Each path offers something unique for every type of traveler.

1. Name: The Imperial Pavilion Type: sight Why go: This is the most iconic building in the park. It reminds visitors of the area's history as a luxury spa. The architecture is stunning and sits on a gentle hill. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Northern section of the park near the hospital. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Take tram 4 to the 'Lochotín' stop and walk uphill. Tip: The evening light here is perfect for taking photos of the city skyline.
2. Name: The Thermal Spring Fountain Type: experience Why go: This fountain is a nod to the park's spa heritage. It is one of the many quiet places in Plzeň where you can relax. The sound of water is very soothing. Best for: Relaxation and meditation. Where: Near the main entrance path from the tram stop. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short 5-minute walk from the Lochotín tram station. Tip: Bring a book and enjoy the benches surrounding the water feature.
3. Name: The Upper Arboretum Loop Type: hidden path Why go: This is one of the most secluded Lochotín Park hidden paths. It winds through a collection of rare and exotic trees. You will rarely find crowds here even on weekends. Best for: Nature lovers and hikers. Where: The highest elevations of the park. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the signs for the 'Arboretum' from the Pavilion. Tip: Look for the small wooden plaques that identify the different tree species.
4. Name: The Zoo's Rock Garden Type: nature Why go: While part of the zoo, this section feels like a secret mountain trail. It features alpine plants and rugged stone paths. It offers a different vibe than the rest of the park. Best for: Gardeners and families. Where: Inside the Plzeň Zoo and Botanical Garden. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Included in the zoo entrance fee. Getting there: Enter through the main zoo gates and follow signs for the Botanical Garden. Tip: Visit in late spring to see the alpine flowers in full bloom.
5. Name: The Amphitheater Ridge Type: viewpoint Why go: This path runs along the top edge of the massive stone amphitheater. It provides the best panoramic views of the Plzeň city center. You can see the cathedral spire clearly from here. Best for: Scenic views and sunset watching. Where: Just above the Lochotín Amphitheater. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk up the stairs from the lower park meadows. Tip: This is a popular spot for locals to watch fireworks during city festivals.
6. Name: The Sunken Grotto Path Type: hidden path Why go: This trail leads to the ruins of an old stone grotto. It feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The path is shaded by thick canopy cover. Best for: Romantic walks and exploring. Where: Tucked away in the western woods of the park. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Head west from the Imperial Pavilion into the denser forest area. Tip: The path can be slippery after rain, so wear shoes with good grip.
7. Name: Kilometrovka Avenue Type: iconic path Why go: This is a famous straight path lined with ancient lime trees. It connects the park to the city center. It is a great place to see if Lochotín Park is good for quiet picnics under the shade. Best for: Walking and cycling. Where: The southern edge of the park area. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from the Kalikova street area. Tip: Visit in June when the lime trees are flowering for an amazing scent.
8. Name: Bolevec Ponds Nature Trail Type: day trip Why go: Located just a short distance away, these ponds offer a different water-focused nature experience. The Bolevec ponds nature trails are perfect for a longer day of hiking. Best for: Swimming in summer and long walks. Where: North of the Lochotín district. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take tram 1 to the end of the line at Bolevec. Tip: Bring your swimsuit in July or August as the water is very clean.
9. Name: Chlum Observation Tower Type: day trip Why go: This historic tower offers a 360-degree view of the entire Plzeň region. The Chlum observation tower hike is a local favorite for weekend exercise. Best for: Active travelers and view seekers. Where: On the Chlum hill on the eastern edge of the city. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Small fee to climb the tower. Getting there: Take a bus to the Doubravka district and follow the green trail markers. Tip: Check the opening hours online as they vary by season.
10. Name: Luboš Hruška Meditation Garden Type: experience Why go: This is a place of profound peace and history. The Luboš Hruška meditation garden features beautiful sculptures and a small chapel. Best for: Quiet reflection and art lovers. Where: Southern part of Plzeň in the Doudlevce area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Small entrance fee. Getting there: Take a bus or trolleybus toward the Tyršův Bridge. Tip: This garden is best visited in autumn when the leaves change color.
11. Name: The Mill Stream Park Type: sight Why go: If you enjoy Lochotín, you will love this central park area. The Mlynská Strouha park guide highlights its colorful flowers and modern art. Best for: A quick break in the city center. Where: Near the historic old town. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short walk from the Republic Square. Tip: This is a great spot to grab an ice cream and watch the ducks.
12. Name: Lochotín Meadow Path Type: nature Why go: This wide path skirts the edge of the large open meadows. It is perfect for seeing wildflowers in the spring. It offers a sense of space and openness. Best for: Dog walkers and sunbathers. Where: The central open area of the park. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located right in the middle of the park, accessible from any entrance. Tip: Bring a blanket as this is the best spot for a picnic.

The Beauty of Lochotín Park Hidden Paths

Lochotín Park is more than just a place for a walk. It is a historical site that dates back to the early 19th century. The Lochotín Park hidden paths allow you to see the layers of time. You can find traces of the old spa buildings hidden in the woods. The park changes beautifully with every season. In spring, the fruit trees bloom near the old meadows. Summer brings deep green shade and cool breezes from the forest. Autumn is perhaps the most beautiful time to visit. The many different tree species turn bright shades of gold and red. You can find more information on the Visit Plzeň website. They offer great details on local events held in the park throughout the year.

The park also serves as an important habitat for local wildlife. You might spot squirrels, woodpeckers, and many songbirds. The hidden paths keep you away from the busier paved roads. This makes it easier to see animals in their natural home. Exploring these trails is a great way to understand the local ecology. The air here is always fresh and clean. It provides a healthy break from the urban environment of the city. If you want to learn more about the region, the Plzeň Region (Wikipedia) page offers a good overview of the local landscape.

Planning Your Visit to Lochotín Park in 2026

Visiting Lochotín Park in 2026 is very easy. The city of Plzeň has excellent public transport. Trams 1 and 4 are your best options for reaching the park. They run every few minutes from the city center. You should get off at the 'Lochotín' or 'Zoologická zahrada' stops. Most of the Lochotín Park hidden paths are free to access. You do not need a ticket unless you enter the zoo. For the latest updates on park rules, check the City of Plzeň official portal. They often post news about park maintenance or special events.

When you visit, make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. Some of the hidden paths are dirt trails and can be uneven. It is also a good idea to bring a bottle of water. There are few shops once you are deep inside the park woods. If you plan to stay late, bring a light jacket. Even in summer, the shaded forest paths can be quite cool. The park is generally very safe for solo travelers and families. Most paths are well-marked with hiking signs. These signs use the standard Czech color-coding system. They are very easy to follow even if you do not speak the language. Enjoy your time exploring this beautiful corner of the Czech Republic.