Cesky Krumlov in Southern Bohemia - almost indistinguishable from Bohemia, St Leonards.
There’s more than one Bohemia – this is Southern Bohemia, renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and now part of the Czech Republic. In fact, (reports Czech resident Andrew Cansale), Bohemia makes up 80% of the Czech Republic, the other 20% being Moravia. Northern Bohemia is mainly industrial, but Southern Bohemia is well-known for its breathtaking scenery and old villas and castles.
Andrew, who has lived in Southern Bohemia for some years, waxes lyrical: “Locally there are many fine woodland walks as access is available to all woods and forests. There is much to do in the area, hunting, fishing, boating, swimming, tennis to name but a few. If you like visiting historic towns they abound in this part of the world in plenty, marvellous medieval buildings all undergoing a magical transformation with the fall of communism. In some places the look still prevails of faded grandeur, but in the main the whole area is in a transformation period.
There are plenty of Bohemian villages to explore and in which to seek out the most wonderful architecture. If you want to visit some of the finest country mansions and country houses many are to be found here. Orlik with its splendid setting on the Vltava is a sight to remember. Cesky Krumlov (see picture, above) and Cesky Budejovice are well worth a day’s visit to see the wonders of central Europe. This area is one that will stay in your mind, for its grandeur and its simplicity. The people are the final part of this rich fabric, they are friendly and happy to see you as their guests.”
[Further contributions are promised from Andrew]
