Jewels of Bohemia Day 5

Saturday, August 30      Český Krumlov

After breakfast, we took a walking tour of Cesky Krumlov, one of Europe's most picturesque locales. Nestled inside a narrow loop of the Vltava River, this romantic town with its hilltop castle was once a wealthy trading center and a favorite of European nobility. Today, its confection of red-gabled roofs, elegant bridges, and storybook castle lures lovers of history, culture, and architecture alike. Established in 1250 by the Lords of Krumlov, the 14th through 16th centuries brought a period of great splendor to Cesky Krumlov, which became a stop along one of the main trading routes to Italy.

We walked the winding, cobbled streets to admire the splendidly preserved historic buildings of the medieval town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and ascend to the top of the hill to visit Cesky Krumlov Castle, a Renaissance jewel that encompasses more than 40 buildings, courtyards and gardens, a castle brewery—and live bears who roam the castle’s moat. This castle is one of the largest in Central Europe and was originally constructed in the 13th century into the side of the rock cliffs towering above the Vltava river, giving stunning views across the rooftops of the town.

We also visited the recently opened Castle Museum, which features precious artifacts previously hidden in Castle depositories

After lunch, we rode to the country town of Vetrni, where we begin a peaceful rafting excursion along the Vltava River. We paddled about three miles on the gentle waters of the river, with six travelers and an “instructor” in each raft. The shallow rapids along this stretch of the Vlata are controlled by concrete weirs that cross the river.  This trip was easy, passing through charming countryside.  Our guide pointed out some abandoned buildings that were once textile factories.  Presently there is no longer any textile industry in the Czech Republic as that industry has all gone to China.

After rafting, Tereza treated us to a shot of Becherovka,an herbal bitters, often drunk as a digestive aid produced in the Czech Republic.  Becherovka is often described as having a gingery or cinnamony flavor. It is made from a secret recipe based on a wide variety of herbs and spices