Escape to Olomouc

It is always a good idea to go somewhere for a weekend, especially if there is a direct train connection with Prague. For this time I travel to Olomouc. And honestly, I do not have any plan, what to do there, but maybe I just wanted to check the train company Leo Express, cause usually I travel with Cesky Drahy.

Olomouc is the 6st largest city in Czechia, and it has around 100000 inhabitants. It lies in the heart of Moravia and in the past it was its capital.

One of the most beautiful and the most needed to visit monuments in Olomouc is the Saint Wenceslas Cathedral. Founded in 1107, nowadays it has the gothic style.

The next necessary thing to do in the city is of course tasting local delicatessen, called Olomoucke Tvaruzky. Indeed, its very salty, very smelly, but with very unique taste cheese. It contains lots of protein, but usually goes well with beer. Honestly, I am not going to miss this food, but next visit I will eat it again.

Of course there are much more places and things to explore in the city, including the iconic Holy Trinity Column, the Astronomical Clock and even the beautiful Botanical Gardens, and the good thing is that all of them are located close to each other. Very compact and comfy.

I need to say, that am in love with cobblestone streets in Olomouc. But most of all I appreciate the quietness here. So, this silent, cozy city is an ideal destination if you are tired of the hustle in the megapolis. Definitely, I would come here again to enjoy solitude and unhurried walking.

Brno, Short Visit

Brno is the second-largest city in the Czech Republic, the capital of Moravia, the eastern region of the Czech Republic. The journey from Prague typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.

I came here for several hours, just to check how the city looks like, without any prepared plan. People claim that in comparison with Prague, Brno offers a quieter, more youthful experience with a strong local identity. And I would agree with this popular opinion.

Streets in Brno blend historic charm with modernity, reflecting the city's unique atmosphere. So, there are many narrow cobblestone streets and more modern wider streets. 

To observe  a stunning view of the city center and the surrounding areas I climbed the the Old Town Hall Tower (Stará radnice). So, from the top I could enjoy a panoramic view of Brno, including the nearby Špilberk Castle and the iconic Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul.

My next stop was the Spilberk Castle, located on a hill in the heart of Brno, which is a historic fortress dating back to the 13th century. The hill itself provides a scenic vantage point, making it a popular spot for both history lovers and those seeking a beautiful view of the city.

Honestly, Brno, while charming in many ways, did not quite meet my expectations. The city felt quieter and less vibrant than I had imagined, with fewer things to do compared to the hustle and bustle of larger cities. The mix of modern and historic architecture was interesting, but some areas felt a bit underdeveloped and not as well-maintained as I hoped.

I believe, Brno definitely has a lot to offer, and giving it another try could reveal more of its hidden gems. So, I would need to come back here one day. 

Liberec, The Hill

It is going to be a long exercise for me, climbing a mountain. So, I need to have some energy from food. Luckily, in my hotel the breakfast was included, not very luxurious, but still it was nutritious.

Actually, the main reason of my visiting Liberec is the Jested mountain, which stands at 1012 meters above sea level and is known for its unique, sharply pointed peak.

Alright, the way up I have done with funicular. And after 8 minutes of ride I was almost on the top of the mountain.

And on the very top, the jewel of the mountain, is undoubtedly the Jested Tower, designed by the Czech architect, Karel Hubacek, and completed in 1973. The tower has a futuristic, conical shape that tapers to a sharp point, which helps it withstand the harsh winds at the mountain's peak. The structure combines a television transmission tower, hotel, and restaurant into one, making it a unique architectural marvel. 

The mountain itself also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Czech Republic, parts of Poland, and even the Krkonos Mountains on clear days.

The way down I have made by walking. It was an interesting experience, cause the mountain is quite steeply. But I was happy at the end. At least I could train my legs, which hurt during the next few days.