South Bohemia - Trek scenic trails, explore stunning chateaux, feast on first-class fish
South Bohemia is ideal for blending historic sightseeing with back-to-nature adventuring, with the medieval town of Český Krumlov an absolute must-visit. Designated a UNESCO World Historic Site, the town is presided over by an extraordinary 13th-century castle.
For another UNESCO-rated experience, Holašovice is a rural idyll like nowhere else on earth - and that’s no exaggeration. The village has retained the same number of buildings (seventeen farms, a blacksmith’s, two taverns, one chapel) through its 800-year existence.
Holašovice is but a hop away from handsome Hluboká Chateau. Reminiscent of Windsor Castle, this 13th-century stunner was given a Romantic makeover in the mid-19th-century. Alternatively, visit 17th-century Červená Lhota (Red Village) chateau. Its burnished-red facade presents a captivating contrast with the surrounding lake and trees.
The Lipno lake area in the Šumava countryside is a hotspot for cycling, swimming, windsurfing, sailing - and sunbathing (there’s a reason it’s known as the Czech riviera) - while adventurers will be thrilled by the 24-metre Treetop Walk.
South Bohemia’s Toulavá trail is a trek to take your time over, not least because its name derives from the Czech word toulat, meaning ‘to wander’. It winds along the Lužnice River through enchanting valleys and historic towns like Tábor and Bechyně. Following the old salt trade route, and routing through the Šumava Mountains, trekking the Golden Trail is another rewarding way to see cultural highlights, including the mountain village of Volary.
Hikers will also be in heaven exploring Třeboňsko. Noted for its ponds and canals, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve has plenty of well-marked trails, with gratifying historic detours to take (Chateau Třeboň for example, once visited by imperial alchemists Dr John Dee and Edward Kelley). And you won’t want to miss the region’s culinary specialties, with restaurant-rich Třeboň being the perfect place to feast on local fish dishes.
If Czechia is on your travel wish-list, don't miss the top things to do in the Czech Republic. Plus, stray from the tourist trail and uncover an alternative side to Prague.
Exuding enchantment and magic, the Czech Republic is also a top destination to travel with kids - discover more magical places to visit with children before-they-grow-up.
To find out more, got to www.visitczechrepublic.com, and for more about these beautiful regions, go to www.branadocech.cz/en; www.zivykraj.cz/en; www.visitpilsen.eu; and www.jiznicechy.cz/en.
Top image: View Gorges in Czech on the Kamenice River © GitaFoto/Shutterstock