Liberec, Is it Mountain or 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.

Liberec, The Town

Liberec, situated at the foot of the Jizera Mountains in northern Czechia, is the country’s fifth-largest city and an important regional center. It's known for its unique geographical position, being close to the borders of Poland and Germany. Its only one hour by bus from Prague.

One of the main landmarks of the city is the Liberec City Hall, a stunning piece of Neo-Renaissance architecture, built between 1893 and 1895.

But I am happy to enjoy staying in another prominent landmarks of the old town. The hotel Praha, which is especially known for its Art Nouveau-style architecture. And just look at this beautifully decorated entrance! Its one of the best and most unique, which I have ever seen in my life.

So, the Old Town of Liberec is a quiet yet fascinating part of the city, where history and modern life coexist. There is a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Neo-Renaissance styles, reflecting the city’s development over centuries. Small and cosy.

And the evening was finishing with observing the sunset over the hills around the city. Charming, marvelous, beautiful.

Marianske Lazne

To get some relaxation and enjoy nature I am usually visiting Karlovy Vary. But there are many other places in Czechia, which offer spa activities and fresh air. One of such towns is Marianske Lazne. With another town, Frantiskove Lazne, these three towns make up what is known as the "Czech Spa Triangle", a region rich in therapeutic waters, charming architecture, and serene natural landscapes.

Definitely I want to visit Frantiskove Lazne as well, but this weekend I will spend in Marienbad (this name was historically used during the time when the region was part of the Austrian Empire).

I am staying at the luxurious hotel Bohemia, in the very city centre. It looks very grand outside and inside. And this high ceiling in my room is something special! But honestly, I have chosen this hotel because I could book the room with a balcony there.

One of the most iconic landmarks of the town is the Colonnade of the Singing Fountain, built in the early 19th century. The colonnade stretches over 100 meters and is adorned with Corinthian columns, creating a beautiful space where visitors can relax and take in the scenic surroundings.

Another defining aspect of Marianske Lazne is its expansive, lush parks, which play a key role in the town’s serene ambiance and overall charm.

And of course, Marianske Lazne is renowned for its numerous mineral springs, with over 40 sources spread throughout the town.The waters here are quite cool (around 7-10°C) and often used primarily for drinking cures, with a focus on digestive, metabolic, and respiratory health.

On the contrary, in Karlovy Vary, the focus is more on hot spring baths (the waters typically ranging from 40 to 72°C), thermal treatments, and general relaxation therapies for the body.

 

To summarize, Marianske Lazne is a peaceful town with healing springs and plenty of green spaces. It is quiet, charming, and perfect for escaping the crowds. Here, you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the calm, and its only 170 kilometres from Prague. However, my favourite is still Karlovy Vary.

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.