Along the Vltava in the Czech Republic

The Vltava is a river in the Czech Republic, as valuable to the country as the Rhine is to Germany or the Seine to Paris. For centuries, it has inspired writers, artists and composers such as Smetana. At the same time, the Vltava is a lifeline for the many people who live along its banks. As it flows through renowned and beautiful regions, it continually lends a touch of romance to both nature and city life.

Along the Vltava, you’ll encounter wild gorges, grand estates, welcoming communities and the Czech capital, Prague. To appreciate the Vltava’s diversity, simplicity and beauty, you can cycle or hike along the river in the Czech Republic, or explore each stop at your own pace by bus or rental car. The Vltava’s source is in the Bohemian Forest, more precisely in a marshy area near Zlata Koruna. Among other attractions, you can visit an abbey here, beautifully perched on a rocky outcrop and making a wonderful subject for photographs. Nearby is also the Via Aurea, a well-known trade route in the Czech Republic, mainly used to transport salt. By the time it reaches Rosenberg, the Vltava has grown into a mature river, a fact reflected in the settlements along its banks. Rosenberg is also home to Rozmberg Castle, which is often used as a venue for performances of Smetana’s works. Passing Vyssi Brod and a world of Czech legends, you reach the town of Cesky Krumlov. Its name refers to the bend in the Vltava at this point, making the river here a much-loved subject for photographs. Here you leave the Bohemian Forest and enter South Bohemia, a region known for its many communities with a medieval air. A little farther downstream, you reach Hlubka Chateau, belonging to the Schwarzenberg family. Its distinctive Tudor style is impossible to miss. Orlik Castle is also well worth a visit. With its three towers, the castle perched on a rocky outcrop once served as the chancellery of Czech chancellor Karl Schwarzenberg. Vysehrad Castle heralds the approach of Prague. Prague is known as the “Golden City.” You can explore it in a day, but there’s no need to rush. It has so many remarkable sights that a longer stay in Prague on the Vltava is well worthwhile. Just north of Prague, the Vltava flows into the Elbe.
The journey along the Vltava ends at Melnik Castle, in a town that is also known for Czech wine.