For you and Sumits parents, we’re planning a visit to our friends’ farmstead at Vlastkovec 1 on the evening of July 6 – they have lots of animals: chickens, goats, cats, dogs, baby chicks, and more… plus a lovely ceramics workshop.
On Thursday, July 3, there will also be a visit to a ceramic studio in Slavonice run by one of my friends who handcrafts beautiful pieces – you're welcome to join, let me know!
If anyone is interested, we can arrange a guided tour of Slavonice on Friday, July 4 – just let me know in advance who would like to join.
On Sunday, I recommend visiting the underground passages and the town tower in Slavonice, and on Monday morning, a trip to Nová Bystřice.
Also, my uncle owns an old mill in Český Rudolec, where you can also find the ruins of a chateau near – it’s definitely worth a visit! He’s happy to show people around the mil, but please note he only speaks Czech, so it’s best to have someone with you who can translate. Let me know if you're interested, and we can arrange a visit.
Introduction to Česká Kanada and Slavonice
Česká Kanada (Czech Canada) is a picturesque region in the southeast of the Czech Republic, known for its beautiful nature, dense forests, ponds, and historic landmarks. The name “Czech Canada” was inspired by the landscape’s resemblance to Canadian forests — it is a paradise for lovers of hiking, cycling, and peaceful nature.
Slavonice, one of the main towns in the area, has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The town was an important trade and craft center due to its strategic location on trade routes connecting Bohemia and Austria. Slavonice is especially famous for its Renaissance architecture, unique underground passages, and well-preserved historic center with charming houses and towers.
Over the centuries, Slavonice has maintained its unique character, attracting visitors looking to experience a combination of history, culture, and nature. The region offers a wide range of activities — from castle tours and cycling trails to visits to traditional craft workshops such as pottery.
Thanks to its location at the crossroads of Bohemia, Moravia, and Austria, Česká Kanada and Slavonice are excellent starting points for exploring the surrounding gems of southeastern Bohemia.
Tours:
Short route (130 m, ~20 min) – daily, 9:00–18:00
Long route (300–400 m, ~1 h) – weekends and daily in high season (July–August); in June & September only with advance booking (min. 8 people)
Price:
Short: adults ~90 CZK, children/students ~60 CZK
Long: adults ~110 CZK, reduced ~80–90 CZK
Start point: Stavební huť Slavonice, Dolní náměstí
Tip: Bring a sweater – it’s cool underground!
Open: usually daily during summer
Climb: 176 steps to 33 m height – panoramic views over Slavonice and even into Austria
Entry: around 50–60 CZK (not always separated from museum admission)
Atelier Maříž:
Paint your own cup, plate, or teapot
Handmade ceramics, shop, café
Open: all year round, drop-ins welcome
Bonus: Great activity for kids and families!
Open: daily from May to September, 9:00–16:30
Tickets: adults ~90–140 CZK, kids 0–50 CZK, families ~230–260 CZK
Location: 15 min by car from Slavonice
Extras: picnic areas, small cafés and restaurants nearby
Looking for a bit of adrenaline? Close to the Landštejn castle ruins, you’ll find a rope climbing park set in the forest. Great for kids and adults alike, it’s a fun way to challenge yourself among the treetops – with various difficulty levels and safety equipment provided.
🌲 Matejovec
Matejovec is a quiet forest area not far from Slavonice, perfect for walking, mushroom picking, or just soaking up the peaceful energy of the woods. Great if you're looking for a break from sightseeing and want to connect with nature.
🌄 Observation Tower at Jakub (Rozhledna U Jakuba)
This 26-meter tall wooden lookout tower, located near Valtínov, offers incredible panoramic views over the forests and hills of the Czech Canada region. A short hike leads you to the top, and the view is absolutely worth it – on a clear day, you can see deep into Austria!
Castle: Baroque halls, guided and self-guided tours
Open: Tue–Sun, 9:00–16:30 in high season (July–August)
UNESCO: One of the most beautiful main squares in the Czech Republic!
🍺 Malá Hluboká & Pivovar
Just outside Dačice, you’ll find Malá Hluboká, a peaceful countryside spot perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Nearby, there’s a small local brewery where you can try craft beer straight from the source – ideal for beer lovers or anyone curious to experience authentic Czech brewing culture.
🌳 Rožnov
The tiny village of Rožnov near Slavonice is home to the Bison Ranch, but it also offers beautiful views, calm forests, and a truly rural Czech atmosphere. It’s a lovely spot for a walk, a photo stop, or to enjoy some fresh countryside air.
Guided tours: adults ~240 CZK, students/seniors ~190 CZK, children ~70 CZK
Self-guided areas: adults 140 CZK
Stroll by Vajgar pond: scenic views, swans, and a relaxing walk
Castle: elegant Renaissance-Baroque residence with guided tours
Entry: adults ~150 CZK, discounted ~120 CZK, kids ~60 CZK
Watchtower (Town Tower): climb for a lovely view over the town
Entry: symbolic fee or free with museum ticket
Swimming pool (Koupaliště Dačice):
Natural outdoor pool with slide and grassy lounging area
Entry: ~60 CZK adults, ~40 CZK kids
Facilities: changing rooms, refreshments, kids area
Line: 33 km heritage railway
Tip: vintage trains (sometimes steam), forest route, stops in tiny villages
Seasonal: weekends only (check operation in 2025), tickets in advance recommended
🚵♂️ Singltrek near Nová Bystřice
About 20 minutes by car from Slavonice, Singltrek is a well-known network of singletrack mountain bike trails suitable for all skill levels—from beginners to advanced riders. The trails wind through beautiful forests and rolling hills, offering both challenging climbs and fun descents. It’s perfect for anyone who loves active outdoor adventures and stunning nature.
🛴 Scooter and E-bike Rentals in Slavonice
For a fun and easy way to explore the towns and countryside, you can rent electric scooters or e-bikes in both Slavonice. These rentals are great for casual sightseeing, allowing you to cover more ground without getting tired. Perfect for all ages and fitness levels!
⛳ Golf, Wellness, and nice new Hotel
The region offers several charming hotels with wellness centers and golf courses nearby. Within a 30-minute drive from Slavonice, you can find places offering spa treatments, swimming pools, and beautifully maintained golf courses. These amenities provide a relaxing break after busy sightseeing days or active excursions.
Osika, Zvůle, Landštejnská přehrada – ideal for swimming, picnics, or paddleboarding
Vajgar Pond (Jindřichův Hradec) – scenic walk and benches along the shore
Free access: all natural, no entrance fees
MORE FURTHER PLACES
In the Czech Republic, besides Prague, I recommend visiting some ponds or lakes. Beautiful towns include Telč, Třeboň, and Český Krumlov — where the castle even has bears, and for the brave, you can take boat rides under the castle, even if just for a few hours. The Šumava region is stunning, as well as the Lipno reservoir or the Tree Top Walk (Cesta korunami stromů), and more.
Additional Czech Republic gems worth visiting:
Karlštejn Castle – an impressive Gothic castle near Prague, home to the Czech crown jewels with beautiful views.
Kutná Hora – a historic town known for the Bone Church (Sedlec Ossuary) and the Gothic St. Barbara’s Church, both UNESCO sites.
Bohemian Paradise (Český ráj) – a nature reserve with sandstone rock formations, castles, and romantic hiking trails, perfect for walking tours.
Adršpach-Teplice Rocks – a unique labyrinth of sandstone rock formations great for hiking and climbing.
Pálava and Mikulov – a wine region with picturesque landscapes, vineyards, and the historic town of Mikulov.
Krásná Lípa and Bohemian-Saxon Switzerland – an area with magnificent sandstone rocks and gorges, ideal for tourists and families.
Hluboká Castle – a castle inspired by England’s Windsor Castle, surrounded by beautiful gardens and parks.
Lednice-Valtice Castle Complex – a vast castle area with gardens perfect for romantic walks and cycling trips.
Slavkov u Brna (Austerlitz) – historic battlefield of the famous Battle of the Three Emperors, with museums and monuments.
Olomouc – a historic city center with a UNESCO-listed Holy Trinity Column, a beautiful square, and many cozy cafés.
Prague Zoo and Botanical Garden – a great visit for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.