South Bohemia Guide & Tips - our recommendation
Hluboká Nad Vltavou Castle: The "Czech Windsor" within reach
Just a 35-minute scenic drive (38 km) from our holiday house lies one of the most stunning architectural gems in Central Europe – the Hluboká State Castle. If you are planning a day trip, this fairytale destination is a must-see.
A Touch of England in South Bohemia While the castle's roots date back to the 13th century, it gained its romantic, storybook appearance in the 19th century under the Schwarzenberg noble family. Inspired by the British Royal Windsor Castle, Prince Johann Adolf II and his wife Princess Eleonore von Liechtenstein transformed it into a masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture between 1840 and 1870.
Rich History & Legacy The last private owner was Adolf Schwarzenberg (uncle of the late Czech Foreign Minister Karel Schwarzenberg). Interestingly, the castle was nationalized in 1947 under a unique law even before the communist era began. Today, it is surrounded by a vast English-style landscape park, perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
Our Recommendation: We highly suggest taking a guided tour. The interiors are famous for their incredibly intricate wood carvings, historic tapestries, and royal armories. Link to official website & tickets here
The Stádlec Chain Bridge: A Hidden Engineering Marvel
Located just 10 km from our house, the Stádlec Bridge is a true hidden gem. It is the last remaining Empire-style chain bridge in the Czech Republic and a protected national technical monument.
A Bridge on the Move The bridge has an incredible history. Originally built between 1847 and 1848 across the Vltava River, it faced destruction in 1960 due to the construction of the Orlík Dam. To save this architectural treasure, it was meticulously dismantled piece by piece and moved to its current location over the Lužnice River. It was finally reassembled and reopened in 1975.
Why Visit? Unlike the crowded spots in Prague, Stádlec offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can admire 19th-century engineering in a serene natural setting. It's a perfect destination for a quiet afternoon trip by car or bicycle.
Our Tip: Don't forget your camera! The bridge's elegant iron chains and stone towers look stunning in any light, especially during sunset.
Tábor: The Town of Rebels and Medieval Labyrinths
Just a 20-minute drive (18 km) from your holiday house lies Tábor, one of South Bohemia's most historic and captivating towns. While its roots go back to Celtic times (around 400 BC), its most famous chapter began in 1420 when it was founded by the Hussites—radical religious reformers of the Middle Ages.
Explore the Underground World History is alive in every cobblestone street of the old town, but the real adventure lies beneath your feet. Don't miss the chance to explore the Medieval Underground Tunnels dating back to the 15th century, which run under the entire Žižka Square.
Our Insider Tip: The entrance is located inside the museum on the main square. A small word of advice: avoid calling these tunnels "catacombs"—the local guides are quite sensitive about it! Since they were used as storage cellars, not burial sites, the correct term is simply "underground corridors."
Why visit? Tábor is perfect for a full-day trip, offering great local restaurants, historic architecture, and a unique atmosphere of medieval bravery.
Bechyně: From Celtic Roots to Renaissance Splendor
Just a few minutes' drive from your holiday home, you'll find Bechyně, a town steeped in history. Archaeological finds show that the site was inhabited by Celts as early as the 1st century BC, followed by Slavic settlements in the 9th century AD.
The Bechyně Castle The crown jewel of the town is the Bechyně Castle. Originally built as a fortress in the 13th century by King Ottokar II of Bohemia, it was transformed into a magnificent Renaissance residence by the famous Rožmberk family in the 16th century. Throughout the centuries, it was owned by several noble houses, including the Sternbergs and the Paars. Today, the castle is privately owned, beautifully maintained, and fully open to the public.
Ceramics and Art Bechyně is world-famous for its long-standing tradition of ceramics. We highly recommend visiting the former castle brewery, which now houses the Aleš South Bohemian Gallery. Its unique exhibition of modern and historic ceramics is a true hidden gem for art lovers.
Our Tip: Take a walk across the "Bechyně Rainbow" (Bechyňská duha) – the famous historic bridge that offers a spectacular view of the castle above the Lužnice river.
