I'd give this ruin at least an hour, more if they have an event going on. We enjoyed exploring the castle and imagining what it must have been like when active. There's lots of neat sculpture done by contemporary black smiths through out the castle. We did this as part of a day trip from Olomouc, spending most of the... More

That place is not so far away from my house (35 km) So I go there once per two years frequently. Each visit I see something different. That place is also a centre for smiths. There is also festival to that called "Hefaiston". Large area marked like "ruin" but really under control/maintanace and in good shape. Restaurant inside castle available.... More

It is a huge castle where a blacksmith symposium is held each year and many amazing creations can be seen there. So, it´s not only a large castle but also an interesting gallery.

Helfštýn Castle is a partly restored but mostly ruined castle, which means you’re able to make your way around the castle at your own pace, unguided. There are guided tours offered but they’re in Czech only. The castle was built in the 13th century by the ‘black’ knight Friduš of Lindavá who used the castle’s strategic position, guarding the gate... More