By Emma Dodd
As the world starts to readjust to the new normal, foreign travel no longer feels quite so out of reach. In our Dream Destinations series we discover some of the places we’re looking forward to visiting with our caravans in the not-so-distant future. Today it is the turn of the Czech Republic’s Bohemian gem Cesky Krumlov.
To say that Cesky Krumlov is reminiscent of a scene from a postcard is an understatement. It has all the picture-perfect elements you could possibly hope for, from the meandering Vltava River and terracotta-roofed buildings to the 13th-century castle and countryside backdrop.
Unlike some big cities, it is easily navigable on foot and a campsite on the outskirts of town make it the perfect spot for a post-lockdown caravan holiday. And once the daytrippers from Prague have left, you’ll have this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site to yourself.
On arrival in Cesky Krumlov, the first thing you’ll notice is the ornate round tower of the castle, painted in pastel colours and reaching into the sky. It’s an iconic landmark that tempts you to explore the castle that lies beneath. Once inside the complex, you can climb to the top of this tower to see the Sumava countryside spread out for miles.
You can also turn your hand to blacksmithing, visit the castle museum and try and spot one of four bears that live in the moat. This is tricky as the animals have trees and a lagoon to enjoy, but a sighting of Vok, Katerina, Hubert or Marie Terezie is a highlight of any visit to Cesky Krumlov. You’ll notice bears feature on the castle’s coat of arms, after being introduced to the moat in the 16th century.
Having been built and extended over the centuries by different generations of the Rosenberg family, the castle’s architecture combines elements of gothic, renaissance and baroque styles. It is not the only part of the town of architectural note, however, with Namesti Svornosti being the square at the centre of the Old Town surrounded by beautiful buildings.
Here you will find houses in myriad styles and painted an array of colours, adding to Cesky Krumlov’s fairytale vibe. Check out the wide facade of the town hall in all its renaissance glory and the hexagonal stone fountain dedicated to the Virgin Mary. You’ll spot many gems as you wander the town and cross the Vltava via its multiple bridges.
Where will you travel on your first caravan holiday after the pandemic? Let us know your plans.
