Český Krumlov & České Budejovicích, Czech Republic

We had a great adventure in the Czech Republic. I loved visiting Český Krumlov(pronounced chesky crum-love) and České Budejovicích (good luck with the pronunciation I can't pronounce it myself).

Český Krumlov is a medieval looking city zig-zagging along the Vltava River.

When we got to the city we wandered up the streets to the castle that was built in the 1300's. I was completely surprised by what I saw when I got there...BEARS! The bears live in the moat surrounding the castle and if you get there around lunch time you will see these cute and fluffy creatures chowing down.

We climbed the tower to get a great view of the river hugging the city.

Every view of the city is beautiful, even through the little nooks and crannies.

Alot of the buildings have very ornate brick work, but if you look close enough you will realize that they are just painted facades that trick the eye.

After climbing to the castle and up the windy streets we were ready for lunch.  In a town that is very touristy you can spot a great traditional Czech Restaurant by the smell of the food that's cooking. We really enjoyed eating at Vlašský Dvůr and highly recommend their svíčková.

Probably the best svikova I have yet to have!

One of my favoirte things about Český Krumlov is how festive it felt.  We came at the right time to celebrate St. Wenzel Fest, and enjoyed live music, traditional dancing, homemade crafts and delicious looking food stands in the town square.

Looming clothing

The meats, cheeses and candies oh my! The cheese weighed 50 lbs!

We walked along the river and enjoyed a yummy dessert-a warm cinnamon tredelník-which is a Czech version of a churro, baked on an open fire rather than fried.   

After walking along the river we headed to České Budejovicích.  I loved their town square and the fountains.

We went to the Hluboká castle were we took a tour of the mid-13th century gothic masterpiece. The castle has had four reconstructions during its history.  The rooms are ornately detailed with beautiful wood work and tapestries. Careful no photographs are allowed inside. 

The residents would come to the castle and the men would enjoy hunting on the grounds.  Inside you can see the collection of hunting weapons, and from the outside you can get a sense that hunting was a popular sport among the men.

We had a great time visiting and we hope to move in soon!