Snapshot – Cesky Krumlov

I have a confession to make. I’ve been looking forward to writing this post. It’s always hard to pick favourites from the places your travels have taken you, it feels disloyal to all the other wonderful places that have crossed your path. But Cesky Krumlov is a favourite of mine, there’s no denying it, I was captivated by its charm and ease.

Located in the Czech Republic, along the banks of the Vltava River, this UNESCO World Heritage listed town was founded in the mid-13th century. We were fortunate in that our accommodation was located right in the centre of the town, just mere metres from the entrance to the main highlight (if there can be such a thing in this beautiful place) … Cesky Krumlov Castle. I don’t usually mention the accommodation I stay in but I’m going to make an exception here. I stayed at the Pension Danny, a rustic B&B style property, with oodles of character. My room was located up the three flights of somewhat uneven wooden stairs, into the attic. It was huge, relatively basic but still with all the amenities I could need, comfortable, charming and offered a view down onto the cobbled street below.

The castle’s 180-foot tall tower

The view of Cesky Krumlov from the castle

The street front directly outside my hotel

Walking back to the castle from it’s landscaped gardens

As I said, the castle is but a short stroll away. It is a multitude of colours, with the facades of the many buildings comprising the castle painted with ornate patterns. The views from the castle are magnificent, looking down across the meandering river to the Old Town itself. Even the cellar of the castle was worth a look as it housed a rather unique sculptural exhibition, pieces of which were artfully places throughout its dark tunnels. Passing through to the rear of the castle grounds, there is a large rococo style garden, and more views to die for. But the charm of Cesky Krumlov extends beyond the castle walls. The town is littered with beautiful historic buildings and there is a market square where you can purchase some lovely handcrafted souvenirs for your home. I took the opportunity while here to see the town from the river itself. Hiring a raft and paddling my way down the winding river, it was like seeing behind the scenes to the bones of this quaint town, cafes and restaurants lining the shore. My only regret? That I didn’t have more time here. If you find yourself in the Czech Republic, do not miss this stunning place.

The streets of the Old Town

Looking along the Vltava River

The cellar of Cesky Krumlov castle

A final view of the town

This post makes up part of my contribution to the April 2017 A to Z Challenge

Click Here for a list and links to my other challenge posts.

And if you’d like to revisit my 2016 challenge post for C, here’s the link: Snapshot – Chobe