Sumava National Park, in the southeastern corner of the Czech Republic, preserves a vast land of unspoiled nature. It may seem like something out a fairytale, but a land of green forests, breezy meadows, meandering brooks, and great stone castles really does exist. The national park and the entire Sumava Region in the Czech Republic are interesting places to connect with both nature and history.

Sumava National Park is one of four in the entire Czech Republic, along with Krkonoe National Park, Ceské Svycarsko, and Podyjí National Park, which protects the forests of south Moravia. Sumava, covering more than 170,000 acres of the Bohemian forest and the Sumava Mountains, has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, reflecting the importance of the preservation efforts.

As a popular place to hike and watch wildlife, Sumava National Park draws visitors interested into getting back to nature. It's not uncommon to see a lynx or two, moose, otters, and kingfishers. The trails are well marked, making it easy to explore. Along the way you'll find several that provide information about the sights ahead. A green bus, powered by bio-diesel, connects many of the spots in the park, so you can sit back and admire the scenery.

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Daring sorts will find many things to do in Sumava—wandering off the beaten path with a map or GPS is a real adventure. Cycling tours through the Sumava Forest are another popular way to explore. In the winter, visitors also enjoy the challenge of Nordic walking.

Sumava National Park is natural area, so you'll need to look to surrounding towns for visitor amenities. Cities including Kaplice, Cesky Krumlov, and Ceske Budejovice are home to a wide array of hotels, restaurants, and shops to round out your vacation plans. After a good night's rest, you'll be ready to get out and explore the Sumava Region in the Czech Republic.

The list of things to do in Sumava stretches beyond the national park. Beyond the protected park, the region is home to charming villages, interesting museums, and Gothic castles. Černé Jezero, the Czech Republic's largest lake is found here, as is Lipno Lake. Lined by resorts, campgrounds, marinas, and other visitor amenities, this lake near Cesky Krumlov is a favorite place in the summer.

The Sumava Region in the Czech Republic is a popular place once the snow falls, whether you're a seasoned skier or a newbie who wants to spend time outdoors. You'll fine plenty of places to enjoy winter sports, including Zelezna Ruda. Like other winter sports resorts, the resort town offers skiing for all skill levels, in addition to snowboarding facilities and chairlifts. Cross-country skiing is another one of the more popular things to do in Sumava in the wintertime. And with so many acres of unspoiled forest, you'll find a chance to clear your mind in a place far away from the hustle and bustle of home.

From the spring wildflowers, abundance of summer, and autumn colors to the winter snows, this scenic region offers beauty twelve months of the year. No matter which season you visit the Sumava Region, you'll find a beautiful, unspoiled place that's wide open to exploration.