Trip code: W07CZ 4.8 (6 reviews)
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Flights
available
22.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
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Imagine a landscape straight from the pages of a storybook, where rolling countryside stretches endlessly, adorned with lush forests and tranquil fishponds. At the heart of this magical expanse lies the Bohemian Paradise, a region steeped in history and natural splendour. Nature's artistic prowess is evident in the sandstone rock cities, locally called 'Skalni Mesto,' forming intricate labyrinths. These formations, sculpted over millennia, present a surreal contrast against the backdrop of linden trees and traditional folk villages, standing testament to Earth's enduring creativity. No discussion of Bohemia is complete without mentioning the iconic Trosky Castle-a silhouette against the horizon, calling out to adventurers. Perched on basalt steep cliffs, its twin towers, Baba (old woman) and Panna (young girl), offer sweeping views of the land below. Once a fiery volcano, this ancient castle murmurs tales of a distant past, inviting intrepid travellers for an easy stroll back in time.
Embark on our meticulously crafted walking tour, winding through narrow corridors of rock cities and exploring mesmerising labyrinths. Imagine the echoes of hooves and the creaking of carts on these ancient trails, where time seems to slow down, inviting you to savour the surroundings.
As your adventure concludes, the historic city of Prague extends a warm welcome. On your last day, indulge your senses in the culinary wonders of Czech cuisine. Must-try dishes include roast pork served with houskove knedliky, sauerkraut, and gravy, as well as potato dumplings stuffed with smoked meat, perfectly complemented by a traditional Czech lager. Additionally, you could choose to embark on a magical journey through The Wheel of Time fantasy series locations, discovering the very spots where heroes once tread. Alternatively, delve into centuries of European heritage at the Lobkowicz Palace, housing masterpieces by Brueghel, Canaletto, and Velazquez. Or indulge your senses in a wine or beer-tasting tour, savouring the rich flavours of the region. The options are endless in Prague, we provide notes for a self-guided city tour to help you navigate the must-see sights of this incredible city.
To enhance your experience, we offer accommodation in meticulously chosen, authentic hotels, including a former 14th-century castle enveloped in the enchanting ambiance of gothic woodlands. Each moment in Bohemia is a chapter waiting to be written, an adventure eager to be embraced. Dare to embark on this captivating journey, where every step narrates a tale, and every destination unveils a marvel. Secure your ticket to the Bohemian Paradise, and let the extraordinary adventure commence.
The route of this trip variously follows country roads, tracks and paths. Roads are sometimes tarmacked, sometimes gravel. The tracks and paths used on are of variable standards so you will need sturdy footwear. You should find navigation to be straightforward most of the time.
Arrive in the historic town of Jičin.
Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Hotel Restart.
Hotel Restart, Jicin
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Just a few steps from the famous lime tree alley, this is the tallest building in Jicin with amazing views over the town centre. Fresh breakfast is prepared daily, and the onsite restaurant specialises in Italian and International cuisine.
Leave Jičin along a striking avenue of lime trees where you can visit an impressive 'summer house', before passing through agricultural land and villages until you reach forest on higher ground. In the afternoon, you have the option for something a little more strenuous (extension), but not to be missed! A short walk takes you to the entrance to Prachovske Skaly, a remarkable sandstone rock formation known for its unique geological features. With a network of trails, you can easily spend hours exploring the dramatic rock formations, picturesque viewpoints and lush surrounding landscapes.
Breakfast and Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Parkhotel Skali Mesto.
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Parkhotel is located next to the gateway of the Český Ráj where the Prachov Rock Cities are found. Since its opening in 1936, this stylish hotel has welcomed many happy guests into cosy rooms and a nice restaurant which serves a wide range of international and Czech specialities. There is also a hot tub and sauna on site.
Today you walk through varied woods, villages and agricultural areas. Two undoubted highlights are the castle at Pařez and the chateau at Sobotka. The first is a ruin from the late 14th century and is dramatically situated on top of a rocky outcrop in the forest. There are rooms carved in the sandstone. The second, known as Humprecht castle, was built in the late 17th century as a hunting lodge and now houses an exhibition and is open to the public. Being located on top of a hill it is a significant landmark and provides expansive views of the surroundings.
Breakfast and Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Hotel Posta.
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Located in the historic town centre of Sobotka, Hotel Pošta is a beautiful recently renovated hotel with a lovely restaurant, pizzeria and cafe.
Wander through forests that evoke a sense of timelessness, through quaint villages, past unique sandstone gorges, along serene lakes and visit two stunning castles. Kost is one of the best-preserved Gothic castles in the Czechia and you can pay to join a tour if the time is right. Later in the day, you'll arrive at Trosky Castle, one of the most recognisable landmarks in the region. With its two towering basalt peaks-each crowned with a fortress tower-Trosky offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the castle at your own pace, wandering through its ruins and soaking in its dramatic setting.
Breakfast and Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Hotel Zamek EA Chateau.
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This hotel is a very special, former castle from the 14th century surrounded by characteristic woodland. The rooms are individually decorated with some original gothic castle charms dotted around. The sprawling building has long corridors and spiral staircases with grand chandeliers. You can also walk up to the look-out tower situated on the terrace on the castle rampart to enjoy amazing views over the hills and rock cities; there is also a luxurious wellness centre on site. The Castle Restaurant offers delicious local and international dishes.
By staying at Hruba Skala for two nights, you can spend as much or as little time as you wish exploring the area today. It's well worth the effort as it is very picturesque! We describe a route which takes in much of the so-called rock town ('Hruboskalske Skalni Město'), several viewpoints, fresh-water springs that emerge below the sandstone, the dramatically positioned Valdštejn castle, a memorial to Bohemian mountaineers, an old farmstead and a curious area of rock carvings created many years ago by a self-taught sculptor.
Breakfast and Evening Meal Included.
You stay at Hotel Zamek.
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This hotel is a very special, former castle from the 14th century surrounded by characteristic woodland. The rooms are individually decorated with some original gothic castle charms dotted around. The sprawling building has long corridors and spiral staircases with grand chandeliers. You can also walk up to the look-out tower situated on the terrace on the castle rampart to enjoy amazing views over the hills and rock cities; there is also a luxurious wellness centre on site. The Castle Restaurant offers delicious local and international dishes.
A short transfer takes you into the centre of the substantial town of Turnov, famous for processing of precious stones; here you can visit the Bohemian Paradise Museum. Not long into the walk you pass a farm museum, at Dolanky. You may well be ready for a rest by the time you get to Drabovna, a 'rock town' with views over the valley of the River Jizera. You'll pass the distinctive castle of Frýdštejn, which you can visit. Finally, walking down a sharp ridge towards Mala Skala, you pass rocky outcrops with rather airy ladders and walkways; and just before reaching the valley bottom, you can visit another castle, called Vranov (otherwise known at the Pantheon). This is quite an incredible place! You can either return by the same route on foot to Turnov or take a train or taxi (payable locally).
Breakfast Included.
You stay at Hotel Karel IV.
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This lovely hotel is situated in the beautiful valley of river Jizera, just a few minutes from the town centre. It offers comfortable rooms, an onsite sauna and seasonal swimming pool. The restaurant serves tasty international dishes and Czech specialties.
Today you can either transfer to Prague in the morning or you can enjoy a circular walk in Mala Skala before transferring to Prague in the afternoon. There is much to see and do in Prague, it is undoubtedly a very beautiful city.
Breakfast Included.
You stay at Hotel Hastal.
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This is the oldest family run hotel in the Old Town of Prague, where six generations have been welcoming guests for over 100 years. The characteristic hotel is surrounded by a realm of historical monuments and is set on a little square dominated by an intriguing gothic church. A delicious buffet breakfast is taken in their recently renovated restaurant.
Room upgrades: Please contact us for details.
Make your way back to Prague airport for your flight home.
Breakfast Included.
These tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £164.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Prague airport. We can provide transfers from the airport, please contact us for details and prices.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Self-guided walking
7 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 1+
Leisurely plus
Flights
available
22.0Kg CO2e
Headwater
Navigation App
