Morava, Mikulov

The town of Mikulov is located in the South Moravian Region of the Czech Republic, very close to the Austrian border (the Czech-Austrian border is just 6 km away, and many visitors take day trips between both countries.), and it is famous for its wine production, especially Palava wine. Another popular white varieties include Riesling, Gruner Veltliner and Sauvignon Blanc.

I am going to stay here only for one night, and of course I am going to taste local wine. And my hotel is quite unique, with the view to another sight of the city, the Castle. But unfortunately, it is about 30 minutes walking to the city centre.

Mikulov is a hidden gem of South Moravia, where cobblestone streets, Baroque facades, and Renaissance charm create a fairy-tale atmosphere. The town has only 7500 residents, but not surprisingly each year it is being visited by 150000 tourists. 

And of course during a day I could not miss enjoying here the best wine produced in the whole Czech Republic. And it was only white wine, because the local growing conditions are particularly ideal for white grape varieties - hot summers and cold winters. Even when reds are produced, the local style tends to be lighter and fruitier. The region’s reds are generally more refreshing and approachable rather than the rich, heavy reds often associated with warmer climates.

Mikulov Castle, the town's dominant landmark, was rebuilt in 1719 after a fire and today houses the largest wine barrel in Central Europe, holding 101400 liters of wine.

The castle has a rich history spanning over 800 years and has undergone multiple transformations, from a medieval fortress to a Renaissance residence and later a grand Baroque palace. Interestingly, parts of the castle foundation are carved directly into the rock, making it an architectural masterpiece of its time.

Mikulov is one of those rare places that feels like a quiet secret, waiting to be discovered again and again. And this landscape around, with its vineyards and rolling hills, creates a peaceful rhythm that seeps into your soul. I would love to visit this area once again, and probably in September, when the famous Palava Wine Festival (Palavske vinobrani) takes place.