Sojci Udoli

The Plzeň region is a popular one with outdoor enthusiasts, with lots of great hiking trails through the mountainous landscapes of the Šumava National Park (20 minutes’ drive) and the chance to canoe or paddleboard along the Otrava river (15 minutes). For other ways to take in the scenery, climb the observation tower at Rozhledna Svatobor u Sušice (15 minutes) or try the rafting, off-road scooters and treetop trails at Offpark Sušice (15 minutes). You’ll want to have a stroll around Sušice (15 minutes) as well – the historic royal town is a lovely place to wander around, following the path along the river and among the old buildings. While you’re there, visit the Sušice Museum of Šumava to learn about the area’s match-making industry and see some gorgeous glasswork. For other historic buildings, visit Rabí Castle (20 minutes), an imposing hilltop site destroyed by fire in the 18th century, and take a guided tour of Kašperk Castle (15 minutes), a medieval building with stunning views.