Pálava trip, UNESCO Biospherical reserve

Palava is an protected landscape area (chranena krajinna oblast CHKO) on the most southeastern corner of the Czech Republic. I remembered that somebody told me recently about this region this: "..if its raining in the whole Czech republic, you can be sure there will be drought in Palava." I do agree. During our trip we talked on phone with people from Prague, Cheb, Slovenia and Wien.. and it was raining everywhere. And in Palava?.. just check the pictures. No wonder, that Palava, literally translated, means actually "earth burnt by the sun".

The Palava highlands (first picture shows vew on Nove Mlyny from top of Devin, the second picture than offers far view on opposite highland) are dominant feature of this region south of the dam of Nove Mlyny.

At the top of the hills you can see for this region typical, but in the Czech Republic, very untipical step (picture 3 at the background). Its really surprising to see such ecosystem at 500 meters above see level.

Hikes in this mountains are easy level. You will be always awarded by either a beutiful panorama, old castle, or very nice people from neighboring villages who will try to invite you for a glass of slivovice (czech schnaps made at home). When we took a short afternoon walk along the dam, Cecilia got to taste it as well :-)

For people who plan to hike here here is a typ for accomodation, cheap, very nice personal, beautiful views. Really highly recommended!!!

http://www.kempuzapecu.cz/

I would suggest visitors to stay maybe two days and then head on to Mikulov or other area, dont plan to stay for swimming, the water is not the clearest I have seen in my life:-(