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Barely had we returned from our first holiday in the Tatras, full of energy and enthusiasm, when we were once again packing our car. This time, our journey took us to Eastern Bohemia, where we were to pick up two more adults and two small children aged three and five, making up our group. We were excited to explore the Czech landscape, fully aware of the challenges of coordinating three young children from different families, each with their own rules and upbringing. But we believed we were ready for anything, as the saying goes, "if you're scared, don't go into the woods."
Our first destination was Tanvald, specifically the campsite under Tanvaldský Špičák. Today, we wouldn't have time for much after setting up the tents, gazebo, and feeding everyone, leaving us only a few minutes to explore the campsite's surroundings.
The next morning, after breakfast, we headed up Tanvaldský Špičák. Equipped with a baby carrier, we bravely marched upwards. In the end, we all made it to the top, some with less, others with more effort and determination. We realized that compared to our companions, we had the undeniable advantage of our training in the Tatras, and also the huge advantage of having only one small child. When things got tough, we could simply carry her in the baby carrier, on our shoulders, or just in our arms. This was the first time we encountered the saying, "one child, no child." Despite everything, the excursion was a success, and all members of the trip returned to the campsite unscathed.
Our next stop was the Josefův Důl Reservoir – an impressive body of water, but strong winds forced us to change our plans, and we headed to the Wooden Toy Museum in Detoa Albrechtice, Jiřetín pod Bukovou. The museum charmed us with the world of traditional Czech toys and gave us an insight into their history and methods of production. Fascinated by the craftsmanship, we later visited the local shop, where we bought a wooden marble run for ‘A’ and, of course, couldn’t resist the iconic Mole, whose cute smile became a cherished souvenir of this trip. With plenty of daylight left, we managed to visit the mountain settlement of Jizerka and climb Bukovec (1005 m). We admired the peaceful surrounding landscape and soaked in the timeless atmosphere of the place.
We were really looking forward to our trip to Bohemian Switzerland, the pinnacle of our journey. We fully enjoyed the local landscape, thanks to the rented camping spot by a pond, without any modern conveniences like restrooms, running water, or electricity. Naturally, we brought water with us in a barrel. The children, especially, appreciated the relaxed attitude towards hygiene. That evening, as we sat by the fire and ‘A’ roasted her first sausage over the flames, the moment became an unforgettable memory in our hearts.
The next morning, we set off for Hřensko, but upon arrival, almost all the parking spaces were taken. We started to feel a little nervous, not wanting to walk too far with the children, as the hike to Pravčická Gate would already be a challenge, and we also needed two parking spaces. Luckily, a woman was organizing private parking at a nearby house, and after a bit of maneuvering, we parked. Backpacks on, and off we went to the gate. In the end, only we made it to the top. ‘A’ fell asleep in the carrier, but we were thrilled by the view of the largest sandstone arch in Europe. However, the idyllic moment was spoiled by the crowds of tourists and the unpleasant odor from the restrooms at the Sokolí hnízdo chateau restaurant. We couldn’t wait to head back down. A boat ride through the Edmund Gorge was a well-earned rest, reminiscent of scenes from fairy tales. Tonight, we'll sleep well. Thank you, Hřensko.
Today, we're enjoying a well-deserved rest day. Our steps take us to the lesser-known, yet mysterious ruins of Falkenštejn Castle. Yes, the trail leads uphill again, where the castle ruins are hidden among rocks and sand. The children, free to explore, joyfully engage in play, building stone walls and jumping off boulders while we adults watch and immerse ourselves in the site's history. The metal stairs and viewing platforms offer beautiful vistas, and the children, much to the admiration of the other visitors, especially those afraid of heights, run back and forth.
We leave our idyllic retreat and head for Bezděz, another hilltop castle, which evokes mixed feelings among our companions. At the top, we bribe the children with ice cream and head inside the castle. The biggest attraction was archery, especially for the dads. A much-anticipated stop was also the Bezděz Tavern, part of the culinary project "With Love from Karel," where irresistible shrimp lured not only us but also our ‘A’, as if in a past life she had lived by the sea.
What next? The original plan was to visit Máchovo Lake, but we realized we much preferred the solitude of the forest and didn’t feel like going to the crowded campground at Mácháč. So, we looked for an alternative. We don’t even remember how we ended up in Bakov nad Jizerou. But here we are, waiting for the camp manager to let us in. So, once again, we set up the tents and everything else. There are only a few people here, but there’s a playground, a snack bar, and a swimming area in the lake, so tomorrow's plan is set. We need a break from the trips and from each other, just to be here, now, doing whatever we want.
Our final stop in Mladá Boleslav, where we visited the Škoda Museum, brought a glimpse of the past and present of the Czech automotive industry. The children, thrilled with the pedal cars, and we, filled with memories of Škodas in our families, concluded this holiday full of discoveries, strengthened family bonds, shared laughter, and adventure.
Thank you!

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