Overview
In the heart of uncrowded Central Europe lies a walker's paradise. Our journey brings us from Bratislava to Prague, with hikes to hilltop castles and ancient abbeys, following trails through serene forests where locals hunt for prized mushrooms, and right through the gates of enchanting Baroque towns encircled by vineyards. Our journey combines two ancient European capitals, Bratislava, Slovakia, with its cobblestone lanes and vibrant coffee-house culture, and romantic Prague, where ancient history and a lively international vibe happily coexist. Between these two intriguing cities, we’ll discover ancient castles like the brooding ruin of Devin Castle, whose ramparts rule over a strategic point in the Danube, and 16th century Telc, with its perfectly preserved town square. In the UNESCO-protected town of Cesky Krumlov, we’ll enjoy private backstage tour of the perfectly preserved 17th century theater and overnight in a beautifully renovated historic hotel. We celebrate our journey’s finale in Prague, exploring the haunting Jewish cemetery, the Old Town Square with its astronomical clock, and the theater district, where dissident playwright Václav Havel’s works were performed before the days of the Velvet Revolution. Our expert—and beloved—Trip Leaders share the ancient heritage and contemporary drama of this fascinating realm.
I enthusiastically recommend this trip. The combination of the beautiful walks, the ancient castles and chateaus and the preserved villages with their Renaissance architecture and cobbled streets, make this a special trip. Prague was magical.
— Gary B., Hanover, NH
Days 1-3
Bratislava, Slovakia / Moravia, Czech Republic / Lednice Castle / Palava
We meet in Bratislava, Slovakia's charming riverside capital, enjoying a walking tour of its 18th century Old Town. After a hike to the craggy ruins of Devin Castle, we cross the border into the Czech Republic’s Moravian wine country. At Lednice Castle, we walk its stately grounds, one of the largest designed landscapes in Europe, then explore Palava Highlands Nature Reserve.
Bratislava, Slovakia / Moravia, Czech Republic / Lednice Castle / Palava - Days 1-3
Marrol's Boutique Hotel
Day 1 (1 night), Bratislava, SlovakiaMarrol’s Boutique Hotel has a great location near the heart of the Old Town, so it's a quick walk to the historic main square, with its complex of 14th century buildings and lively cafes. Guest rooms are well appointed and comfortable, and there is a rooftop terrace, a great place to enjoy a glass of wine.
Hotel Princess
Days 2 to 3 (2 nights), Lednice, Czech RepublicThis relatively new hotel enjoys a great location in Lednice, close to the castle, palace, and other monuments of this World Heritage Site. With just 14 spacious guest rooms and an inviting courtyard with fountain, it offers a cozy, peaceful ambiance.
Days 4-5
Castle Rostejn / Telc / Slavonice
After a picnic at 14th century Castle Rostejn, a Gothic apparition, we hike across fields brightened by poppies and into the medieval town of Telc, with a delightful dinner on the terrace in the historic town square. The next day we’re off through pristine woodlands to remote Slavonice, with its triangular-shaped Renaissance plazas.
Castle Rostejn / Telc / Slavonice - Days 4-5
Hotel U Hrabenky
Days 4 to 5 (2 nights), Telc, Czech RepublicSet in a converted 18th century building of charming Baroque architecture, the 16-room Hotel U Hrabenky ("House of the Countess") is just a two-minute walk from the stunning medieval square of Telc, a World Heritage Site of Renaissance-era gingerbread houses.
Hotel Anton
Days 4 to 5 (2 nights), Telc, Czech RepublicThis hotel has a fascinating past—it was originally a distillery producing slivovitz and brandy! It was reconstructed in the 1990s as a hotel, and the guestrooms are simple, but modern and comfortable. It’s set close to the historic center of Telc.
Days 6-8
Cesky Krumlov / Sumava / Rozmberk
Crossing into southern Bohemia, we’re immersed in the unique atmosphere of Cesky Krumlov, with its dreamy pink-and-green castle. In the Sumava Forest, we hike from a 13th century Cistercian monastery to the castle-town of Rozmberk, set on a bend on the Vltava River.
Cesky Krumlov / Sumava / Rozmberk - Days 6-8
Hotel Leonardo
Days 6 to 8 (3 nights), Cesky Krumlov, Czech RepublicThis hotel is actually two renovated townhouses dating back to the 16th century, so of course, you'll find a wonderfully historic ambiance. Each of the 20 guestrooms are stylishly furnished—and no two are alike. It's also in a great location—it's right in the center of town just off the main square, so you're close to everything.
Krcinuv Dum
Days 6 to 8 (3 nights), Cesky Krumlov, Czech RepublicThis charming 12-room hotel is practically a historical monument itself in a town that is steeped in history. Dating back to the 14th century, the structure has lots of character, from the painted exterior walls to the spacious guestrooms that are nicely decorated with original furniture—a step back in time. The hotel is ideally located, right in the center of town and just a short walk from the main square and Cesky Krumlov castle.
Days 9-10
Prague
Bohemia’s jewel had a golden age that lasted from the 14th to the 18th centuries. We walk Prague’s narrow Baroque lanes and cross medieval stone bridges amid the glorious architecture, and explore the Jewish ghetto, which dates to medieval times. Depart on Day 10, or extend your stay.
Prague - Days 9-10
Hotel Paris
Day 9 (1 night), Prague, Czech RepublicWith a Neo-Gothic exterior and elaborate Art Nouveau design elements, this beautifully restored and historic building has a wonderful location just a 5-minute walk to the Old Town Square and 10 minutes to the Charles Bridge. The hotel’s 1930s-style Café de Paris is a great place to wind down at the end of the evening and provides an excellent perch for people watching.
From Bratislava to Prague
Highlights
Highlights
Details
A mix of easy to moderate walks and hikes, 2-5 hours a day, van support (for luggage or if you wish to skip a day’s hike).
