From the enchanting Waldkirchen am Wesen you leave in the morning, full of anticipation about what the day will bring to your destination in the Czech Republic, which promises a journey to a place where the ravages of time seem to have stood still. The first stage takes me through the picturesque Böhmerwald nature reserve in Austria, an area steeped in natural beauty. The road winds through dense forests and past picturesque landscapes, and you can't help but let your eyes wander over the enchanting surroundings. Each winding path reveals a new panorama, a postcard-worthy moment that makes my journey even more special. The smell of nature and the sound of rustling leaves surround you, making you feel completely at one with the landscape.

Floating past many small villages, this becomes an adventure, carried by the breathtaking nature of the Böhmerwald, on the way to a place where history and the present meet in the enchantment of the unchanging. Your first stop is Altenhof, where you will visit the beautiful Schloß Altenhof castle. This old castle dates from before 1200, but was only mentioned in writings for the first time around 1200. Since 1602 it has been in the hands of the Salburg-Falkenstein family. The castle is located on a hilltop, 600 meters above the Rannatal River, about 3 kilometers north of the Danube. It is surrounded by a beautiful walking area with a lot of history. The castle's church is considered the largest private church in Austria.

Winding through the woods, you reach the Czech border after some time. The promise of a place where time seems to stand still arouses great curiosity and excitement in everyone. However, when you see the many illegible characters on the nameplates, you feel a moment of confusion. Luckily, your trusty sat-nav will lend a helping hand, pointing you in the right direction and reassuring you that the beauty of the destination won't be lost due to language barriers.

Once in the Czech Republic, after enjoying the picturesque landscape for a few tens of kilometers, you will arrive at 'Penzion Alma in Nová Pec, your first coffee stop located north of the Vitava River. It's like you've discovered a secret place, far from the hustle and bustle of the city and hidden in the peaceful expanse of the Czech countryside. No one would expect that guests would ever come here, but the reality is nothing further from the truth. Contrary to the first impression, it is surprisingly lively. Tables are occupied by travelers and local tourists from all backgrounds. It seems this restaurant-guest house has a well-kept secret cherished by those who know its way around.
The smell of freshly ground coffee beans wafts through the air and leads you to the central area where a friendly waiter greets you. As you sip your coffee, observe travelers exploring the area, locals gathering for a chat, and adventurers who have ended up here purely by chance. The fact that this remote spot is so busy highlights its magic and popularity.
After your coffee stop, continue your journey, knowing that you have discovered a secret gem in the heart of the Czech landscape. Leaving the restaurant behind you, with warm memories of unexpected encounters and the charm of the unknown, you cross the Vlatava River where you can enjoy the beautiful view towards the reservoir into which this river flows.
You continue through the nature reserve Národni park Šumava between the forests and via some open plains to the next village called Prášly.
Here you will have your lunch stop in an authentic local restaurant located on the main road.
If you are here, I would like to highly recommend the local Goulash meal.
With a full stomach you continue your journey and make the next stop at the Nýrsko Reservoir. This lake acts as a water reservoir for the area and is only a few kilometers from the German border. Furthermore, it is known for its beautiful surroundings, where fishing and cycling are extremely popular. It is an inviting place to enjoy nature and relaxing activities around the water. Don't forget to supplement your photo collection with photos of this amazing environment.
Amid the mesmerizing views on your journey, you will reach the town of Domažlice and stumble upon the fuel stop of the day. Here you will have the chance to top up your fuel and, more importantly, the opportunity to stretch your legs. Take this moment to fuel not only your vehicle for the next day, but also your own energy for the remainder of this exciting journey. Once you arrive in the city, you will pass the striking Pomnik Svobody statue, which was erected in 1924 in memory of the victims of the First World War. It is one of the most prominent monuments in the city and serves as an important symbol of Czech independence. This monument contributes to its rich history and commemorates those who gave their lives during a period of great historical significance. Please take your time to explore this monument and appreciate the context of its creation.
You now start the last part of and towards the beautiful city
From this route called Mariánské Lázně.

I deliberately do not mention any specific sights in this city, simply because the city center itself is an undeniable attraction. On every corner a new piece of history unfolds in the form of beautiful buildings. It is truly impossible not to be impressed by the historical wealth that this city center has to offer.
There is something to say about the hotel where you are staying. This hotel is now called 'Hotel Centrální Lázně'.
Previously a historic spa, this hotel was also one of the most prestigious spas in the city that traces its history back to the early 19th century. In 1868 the spa house was expanded and renamed "Centrální Lázně" (Central Baths). The hotel continued to grow in popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming one of the most famous spa hotels in the world and retaining its charm. To this day, Hotel Centrální Lázně is a modern and stylish spa resort popular with the elderly, offering a wide range of spa treatments and wellness programs. The hotel is now also a popular destination for conferences and events.
Despite the parking ban in most of the city center, after reporting to reception you will be given permission to park on your own property at the back. Once you have arrived you can enjoy the adjacent park with its surrounding historic buildings.
As you walk through the city, you will come to the remarkable gateway, flanked by water springs. If you walk further, you will reach the impressive 'Zpivajici Fontána' on Maxim Gorkij's colonnade. This fountain, built in the 1980s and designed by the Czech architect Karel Hubáček, is a real eye-catcher. With a diameter of 20 meters, the basin is surrounded by an elegant balustrade. The fountain has 350 nozzles and 250 light points.
What makes this fountain really special is the fact that it plays a different piece of music every hour. The repertoire includes classical music, folk music and popular tunes. The music is accompanied by light shows and water effects, comparable to the enchanting pond concerts in the Efteling in the Netherlands, but in the middle of the public space. An unforgettable experience that enhances the charm of the city even more. Enjoy the musical and visual treat amidst these beautiful surroundings.

After a day full of discoveries, it is now time to relax and enjoy an excellent evening meal. Whether you choose a quaint restaurant serving local specialties in town or decide to dine at the hotel's charming restaurant, the culinary experience is sure to be a highlight. As you indulge in flavors and textures, and observe the variety of people who visit this location, you can think back on the beautiful route you took from the Moselle.
The city, steeped in history and beauty where time seems to stand still, has you enchanted. The various encounters and the rich culture have made the trip an unforgettable experience. As night falls and you prepare for a good night's sleep, your dreams take you on a journey through the memories of this special day.