The Czech region of Southern Bohemia, on the border with Austria, is the most picturesque and heart-warming place to visit. Both sport enthusiasts and history lovers will find the region’s rich cultural heritage and setting irresistible.
Southern Bohemia is one of the most charming places tourists may visit in the Czech Republic. In fact, this is exactly what should be their next stop after Prague. It is truly magnificent. Its breathtaking beauty features rolling mountains of the Bohemian Forest, meandering rivers, large lakes and countless historical towns, charming villages or castles and chateaux which will satisfy even the biggest enthusiasts.Water sports fans should start at the large man-made Lake Lipno.
About an hour from Prague, this huge water reserve is 42 km long and 8 km wide and frequently lures kayakers from all over the place. Generally, it is a water sports hub and fishermen have been known to catch fish of shocking sizes here. Holiday makers enjoy the lake as well as the surrounding area. Even though hiking is not too challenging here, the magnificent natural surroundings makes the region unforgettable.
Cycling trips are very popular in this area as well, and local cycling paths are linked to Austria’s cycling network.A perfect day trip presents a canoe ride down to Cesky Krumlov, the renowned historical town, some 35 km down the river. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a restored fortress overlooking the town’s maze of winding cobblestone streets and old houses. Tourists love to watch the newly arrived canoeists, who may get as far as the very centre of town on the Vltava river, meandering through. When in the area, travelers long to see Ceske Budejovice as well.
The infamous lager, Budvar is brewed here and a visit to the brewery, which dates back to the 13th century, is a must. Older visitors will certainly appreciate local famous beer spa – there is nothing better than a nice beer bath with a cold pint of the delicious lager in your hand. The countless castles and chateaux are all over the place. Just take out your map, choose where you wish to hike and sooner or later, you will come across one or two. The chateaux Hluboká nad Vltavou and Červená Lhota, the Zvíkov Castle or the monasteries Vyšší Brod and Zlatá Koruna are definitely worth visiting.Southern Bohemia is a perfect holiday destination which has a tendency to puzzle all visitors with its calm natural beauty and historical richness. No matter what taste and preference, everyone will find something to fall in love with.