Comfort, beauty, freedom: A Czech holiday that welcomes you home

Ivana Tykač, a successful Czech entrepreneur and the visionary behind Oblík, describes the resort’s name as evoking something “rounded, cozy, and sweet.” And indeed, Oblík embodies this essence. Here, you’re not bound by expectations or a particular way of living. Instead, Oblík embraces you just as you are.

“When you walk into Oblík, it’s like coming home,” Tykač says warmly. “Home is where you can wear whatever makes you comfortable, play your favorite record loud, and do whatever you want.” (For Tykač, that favorite song is "Je t'aime tu sais" by Alain Delon and Brigitte Bardot!) She loves the idea of a place overflowing with comfort, opportunities, and beauty, where every corner whispers a welcome.

We spoke to Tykač about the growing popularity of eco-stays outside Prague, the Oblík Resort’s brand of modern luxury and historic design, and how her TKC Group, a developer and property manager, is devoted to reviving abandoned and dilapidated buildings.

The story of Oblík began with a dilapidated farmhouse and a dream. Tykač and her team at TKC Group, known for their passion for restoring historic buildings, saw potential in the abandoned structure and felt an immediate connection. “We fell in love with the place,” she recalls. “This love was shared by me and our entire family."

Driven by a deep respect for the past and a vision for the future, they transformed this forgotten space into a luxurious retreat. Since opening in 2013, Oblík has evolved continually, setting new standards for luxury, relaxation, and wellness. Tykač’s goal was to create an environment where guests could experience “not only luxury and first-class relaxation but also unique wellness and dining experiences.”

It’s not just about luxury; it’s about creating a space where guests feel genuinely cared for, and every detail is meticulously crafted to provide a unique experience.

From the moment you arrive, you are enveloped in tranquility and belonging, Tykač says. “We want our guests to feel completely special from the moment they cross the threshold of our resort.” Every visit to Oblík is deeply personal, and that sentiment is at the heart of what makes it unique.

One of Oblík’s standout features is its acclaimed Remedi restaurant, where Chef Josef Pindur creates culinary wonders that captivate all the senses. Pindur, who earned a Michelin star in France in 2022, brings passion and artistry to every dish. The resort’s wellness offerings are equally thoughtful and designed to harmoniously connect guests with nature through a holistic approach to health, including meditation, yoga, and unique spa treatments.

Tykač believes modern travelers’ desire for active, outdoor experiences is growing, especially in the Czech Republic. “Time spent in nature is simply an increasingly valuable commodity, an investment in one’s health,” she notes. Oblík’s location, amidst breathtaking scenery, allows guests to feel like they are part of nature while enjoying the highest levels of comfort and service.

“Diversifying experiences between exploring and being in nature is increasingly important in travel. We are seeing a flourishing of outdoor activities that just a few years ago were seemingly only for extreme sports enthusiasts,” she notes.

At Oblík, whether hiking, cycling, or unwinding in a yoga class, the experience is crafted to help you recharge and escape from daily stress.

Tykač and her team at Oblík have ambitious plans for future innovations, particularly in wellness and spa services. “We don’t want to stop,” she says. “We are constantly looking for ways to offer our guests an even better and more unique experience.”

Their vision includes integrating advanced wellness technologies and treatments that blend traditional methods with the latest scientific knowledge, aiming to elevate Oblík to new heights of excellence.

The resort will expand its offerings to include children’s programs, romantic getaways for couples, and specialized yoga retreats catering to a diverse range of guests.

In early 2024, Amazing Places honored Oblík as the most magical place in the Czech Republic, a milestone that reflects the team’s dedication and vision. This accolade, along with the resort’s popularity as a venue for birthday parties, business dinners, and destination weddings—including those of hockey world champion Michal Kempný and Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitová—underscores the success of their philosophy.

At Oblík, there is comfort, privacy, stunning views, and a sense of freedom—a place where ideas are born, and joy is found every morning and night. “We designed it based on many principles, but mainly so that I could feel at home there, even if just for a moment. Until I can welcome you,” says Tykač.