Spas, farms, and glamping: Czechia's 'most magical places' revealed

Travel company Amazing Places has published its annual list of the Czech Republic's “most magical places.” The list includes glamping spots, chateaus, cottages, farms, and other stunning escapes across the country.

For those planning a romantic visit for the upcoming Valentine's holiday or seeking out an elegant winter retreat, keep reading to start your wishlist.

With hectares of landscaped gardens, this French-inspired chateau in Mcely, Central Bohemia, offers a "fragrant spa" and "gastronomical heaven," with beautiful views of the surrounding nature, including an English-style park and forest. It is accompanied by a spa and courses on cosmetic products.

The winner in this category is the Ambassador Wine Club ReBorn in Rašovice, South Moravia, which Amazing Places describes as “paradise.” Guests can visit the former castle park and orchard, or simply enjoy the vast surrounding greenery. An organic farm and wine club also await guests.

An “oasis of peace in the middle of a beautiful landscape at the very foot of the mountain, only 1.5 hours away from Prague,” is how this farmhouse is described. The serenity of this 17th-century farm, paired with a pool and nearby woods, is what makes this Ústí nad Labem location a winner for weddings according to Amazing Places.

Based in “the heart of the Jizera Mountains,” Hotel Královka offers a wellness service on a rooftop, overlooking the scenic views of surrounding forests. Amazing Places writes that the hotel’s jacuzzi, outdoor pool, and playground for children also add to its attractiveness. Its exterior architecture is also largely wood-based, contributing to its aesthetic. 

The remaining categories, such as glamping and boutique locations, each had several winners. Here are some highlights.

Several cottages were winners in this category. Chata Libeč was one of them: it is described as “a new magical place for all those looking for well-being, peace, and fresh air." Found in a small village in Trutnov, Hradec Králové, Chata Libeč offers a garden, pool, and rolling hills surrounding the area. Guests can also walk on the many cross-country trails near the cottage. 

This quaint log house, named Roubenka u Babi, near Cheb to the west of Czechia offers a true rural retreat. "Rolling meadows, dense forests, and tranquility," are provided according to Amazing Places, making this destination one of the winners of the "log house" category. A barbecue, spa, hot tub, and whirlpool also feature, and guests can even see the sight of deer roaming around the grounds.

One of the winners was Hidden Retreat, a small hut based next to a quarry in Lipnice nad Sázavou, in the country’s Vysočina Region. Based in a forest and next to a pond, guests can experience an authentic camping experience while also having a roof over their heads. A heated cedar barrel with hot water and floating sauna are also features that Amazing Places underlines.

Another multi-winner category, the Panorama Golf Resort in Kácov, Central Bohemia, was one of Amazing Places’s picks. An award-winning golf course complements acres of green space, multiple pools, a jacuzzi, whirlpool, and sauna. Thai massages are also available, along with outdoor sports, such as tennis. 

Chata Hradečanka is among the winners of the boutique category. Nestled in the Krkonoše Mountains just a few minutes' walk from the Polish border, this hotel offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. With a ski shop inside and steps away from the nearest ski slope, Chata Hradečanka is a great experience for skiers. A sauna and wine tasting are also available.

Last but not least, in this elite category the Grandhotel Pupp – in Czechia’s famous Karlovy Vary region – emerged as one of the winners. Dating back to 1701, the luxurious hotel features a spa, pool, high-class restaurant, casino, various massage treatments, face care, and a breathtaking interior. Rooms in the hotel "regularly host foreign stars" of the annual film festival, according to the hotel's website.