The park was founded in 1833 by local brewery owner Václav Petz as a spa destination centered around the 'Lochotínské lázně' mineral springs.
The amphitheater, built in 1961, is one of the largest natural amphitheaters in the Czech Republic, with a capacity of approximately 20,000 spectators.
The park's original romantic-era design was inspired by the aesthetics of English landscape gardens.
The mineral spring that triggered the park's creation is currently covered, but historical accounts note its popularity for therapeutic bathing in the 19th century.
The area is an important corridor for local bird species, owing to the density of its old-growth trees.
Lochotín Park is a historic park located on a hillside in the northern part of Plzeň. It was originally established in the early 19th century as a spa garden associated with the nearby Lochotín mineral springs. The park features a complex network of walking paths winding through mature forest stands and landscaped green spaces. It contains a prominent amphitheater, which has served as a cultural venue for outdoor performances since the mid-20th century. The terrain is notably sloped, offering elevated views over the city center and the Plzeň basin. A historic wooden pavilion, known as the 'Lochotín Gazebo,' remains one of the area's iconic structures. The grounds are integrated into the city's green belt, connecting to larger forest areas north of the urban core. The site undergoes regular maintenance to preserve its role as a recreational zone for residents.
The upper walking paths overlooking the city skyline, particularly during golden hour.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the park features significant elevation changes and sloped paths.
Visit the higher points of the park paths to find clear gaps in the trees that provide excellent panoramic views of Plzeň.
Bring water as there are limited commercial facilities within the immediate interior of the park grounds.
Do not attempt to traverse the steeper, unpaved trails during or immediately after heavy rainfall, as they become very slippery.
Keep noise levels moderate in wooded sections; dispose of waste in marked bins to protect the local ecosystem.
