Drive 1 to 2 hours outside of Prague, and not only do you experience a completely different (and very rural) part of the Czech Republic, but there is some pretty unknown and super intriguing nature. Not only that, but we had a surreal medieval adventure staying at an old castle, with torches to light the hallways and a spectacle of snake charmers, witch hunting, and dancing at dinner time. I could not recommend more this crazy Czechian Disney-like castle adventure.

Hiking Prachovské skály

The first day of hiking began at Prachovské skály (Rocks Prachov), an hour and 15 minutes drive from the Prague center. To get there, you need a car, at least according to Google Maps, which says that taking public transit its a 10+ hour trip, haha. Prachovské skály is extremely accessible for most levels of hikers, and the views you get in return for your effort are just, wow. We loved this hike. Every part of the nature reserve was lovely, and we finished in about 2 1/2 hours. At the visitor center you can enjoy some well deserved drinks and snacks, and a beer if you want.

Středověký Hotel Dětenice

Overnight we stayed at the Středověký hotel Dětenice, an eclectic, medieval-style hotel. That night we ate at the hotel restaurant, themed as a medieval tavern complete with a medieval show. This featured a witch inquisition, sword fighting, table dancers, medieval music, jugglers, fire eaters, and a snake handler. Our kids truly could not believe it, they were mesmerized.

Hrad Drábské světničky, the Henchman’s Hideout

For our second day of hiking, we headed to a spot called the Henchman’s Hideout. We were looking for a castle there, where thieves supposedly used, but I guess it was a pretty good hideout because we didn’t find it. Still, we had a super scenic hike and a great day. Some of the spots were quite precarious!

Castle Loučeň and the Labyrinth

We had a few hours before we needed to head to the airport, and so we explored Labyrintárium, a castle whose surrounding grounds have been converted into a park containing 12 different labyrinths. This place was really fun and engaging; highly recommended.