# Enchanting Views and Delectable Koleno: A Journey in Český Krumlov
Written on
Chapter 1: The Start of Our Adventure
We had initially intended to travel straight from Prague to Hallstatt. However, the lengthy journey prompted us to spend a day in Český Krumlov, a charming town not far from the Austrian border.
For most of our stay in Prague, the weather had been overcast and rainy, so it was bittersweet to see the skies clear just as we departed. It made me ponder how travel can often be unpredictable. While I might yearn for everything to go smoothly, I realized that true excitement often lies in the unexpected twists and turns of the journey. These surprises, whether pleasant or otherwise, enrich our experiences and broaden our perspectives.
Český Krumlov Awaits
The drive from Prague to Český Krumlov was surprisingly pleasant. The roads were nearly empty, and the weather was ideal! My friend, seated beside me, curated a playlist that complemented our road trip perfectly.
After two and a half hours, we arrived in Český Krumlov and were taken aback by the number of tourists milling about. It was fascinating to see so many visitors from Korea and China—how did they all discover this hidden gem?
Even in February, the weather felt more like autumn, with vibrant foliage adorning the trees. As we approached the city, the sight of the castle against the backdrop of fluffy clouds and a brilliant blue sky was so breathtaking that I found myself exclaiming with joy.
This is… incredible!!
The delightful weather and the soothing sounds of the river below the bridge created an ambiance that truly represented the charm of a small town. I felt thankful to have stumbled upon such a picturesque place.
Chapter 2: Indulging in Koleno
After a light breakfast of bagels, we headed straight to a local restaurant around 3 PM. While my friends opted for pork ribs, I decided to indulge in koleno once more to savor its unique flavor.
The experience was nothing short of extraordinary. This koleno boasted a crispy outer layer and tender meat inside, contrasting sharply with the one I had tried in Prague. Its enticing pink hue hinted at a richer flavor, perfectly complemented by the bread.
With a golden-brown exterior that reminded me of German Schweinshaxe, the crispy skin felt almost like nachos, especially when paired with the tangy mustard sauce. The combination was simply divine.
How could such a remarkable dish arise from the same cut of meat? When I travel, I deeply appreciate the local culture, especially its cuisine. Food is a reflection of a nation's heritage, and to genuinely enjoy it, one must embrace the local flavors rather than imposing their own.
It's disheartening to see some tourists bring their own spices along, insisting that food lacks flavor without them. This trend, particularly among some Korean and Chinese travelers, detracts from the authenticity of their culinary experiences abroad.
Exploring the Charms of Český Krumlov
The quaintness of the town was palpable, dominated by the castle that could be explored in about two hours, surrounded by shops and eateries. The castle's stone architecture contrasted beautifully with the colorful concrete buildings around it.
In the accompanying image, we're walking towards Cloak Bridge after touring Český Krumlov Castle. Unlike other castles, this one felt secluded, enveloped by trees and nature—an exquisite blend of civilization and the natural world.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, a golden glow enveloped the castle and its surroundings, captivating us for a full twenty minutes. It was remarkable that four young men in their twenties could be so enthralled by a landscape, showcasing the power of nature to inspire and ignite a sense of adventure.
Cloak Bridge: A Stunning Viewpoint
Cloak Bridge, located not far from the castle, was an extraordinary sight. The image above captures a breathtaking view from the bridge, which required a bit of a climb to reach.
Everything around us was stunning. The views from Cloak Bridge rivaled those from the castle, offering an all-encompassing look at the town. The river was crystal clear, and as we crossed the bridge, the buildings shimmered in the golden light. The calm atmosphere of this small town was a refreshing contrast to busier destinations, making both Szeged and Český Krumlov perfect stops on our Eastern European journey.
Isn’t it true that delicious cuisine, breathtaking scenery, and engaging conversations are the true treasures of travel?
Cheers to Our Successful Journey
As we concluded our day, I felt a sense of camaraderie with my fellow travelers, having navigated over 48 hours of exploration without any issues. The joy of the trip was amplified by our shared experiences.
For dinner, we picked up some bread and beer from local stores. As usual, the stakes were high in our poker game that evening. As the sun set and stars began to twinkle, I found myself reminiscing about childhood novels, lost in the moment as we strolled back to our accommodation.
This trip through Europe has transformed from a mere dream into a reality. What dreams do you aspire to chase?
Dreams remain elusive unless we take action to pursue them. Why not seize the opportunity to turn your aspirations into tangible experiences and grow along the way?
For me, another dream is a journey to the United States :)
Thank you for joining me on this adventure. If you’re interested in exploring more travel stories with Kimchiman, I invite you to visit here.