Bohemia
Why go?
While Prague is one of Europe's most visited cities, the
countryside of Bohemia is among its least trodden. Even if you just
pop out of Prague for a night or two, you'll be rewarded with
lovely rolling woodlands, limestone caves and river valleys,
wonderfully preserved medieval towns and a cornucopia of apparently
impregnable castles.
HIGHLIGHTS
Caves and Castles
Koneprusy (40km SW from Prague). Escape from the heat to the
cool of the largest system of caves in Bohemia. Only discovered in
1960, 600m worth of tunnels are open to the public:
www.caves.cz. Stop off at Karlstejn
on your way back (30km from Prague) - a glittering gem-encrusted
chapel within a 14th century fairytale castle.
King of the Spas
Karlovy Vary (Karlsbad) (130km W from Prague): Very
relaxing. A 600-year tradition of natural healing in twelve springs
makes this the largest spa in the Republic. Feel your footache and
overindulgence float away in waters reputed to soothe muscular and
digestive disorders. The city, founded in 1370 by Emperor Charles
IV, also has a film festival, glassware outlets and some
astonishing monumental architecture.
www.karlovyvary.cz
Natural Harmony
Antonin Dvorak Memorial House (Vysoka u Pribrami, Trebsko
262 71, 60km SW of Prague, near the village of Vysoka). Elegant
neo-renaissance house in grounds with lakes, said to have inspired
the world-famous Czech composer. Revamped in 1994. Stage scenery
and costume exhibitions, spanking new concert hall.
www.antonindvorak.cz