Things to Do in Šumava

Šumava represents one of Central Europe's last remaining wilderness areas, a vast expanse of ancient forests, pristine lakes, and rolling hills that stretches across the Czech-German-Austrian border. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve actually feels like stepping back in time - you'll find yourself in landscapes that have remained largely unchanged for centuries, where lynx still roam through dense spruce forests and traditional villages nestle in valleys that seem forgotten by the modern world. The region might be less famous than other Czech destinations, but that's precisely what makes it special. You'll encounter a kind of raw, unpolished beauty here that's increasingly rare in Europe, where hiking trails wind through peat bogs and past glacial lakes, and the silence can be so profound it's almost startling.

The food scene here is refreshingly unpretentious, focusing on hearty traditional Czech cuisine that actually makes sense after a day of hiking. You'll find excellent game dishes - venison, wild boar, and duck are specialties - along with freshwater fish from local rivers and lakes. Many restaurants are family-run establishments that have been serving the same recipes for generations, and the portions tend to be generous. Local beer is outstanding and surprisingly varied, with several small breweries taking advantage of the pure mountain water. Worth noting that restaurants can be sparse in some areas, so it's wise to plan meal stops around your activities.

Late spring through early fall offers the most comfortable weather for hiking and outdoor activities, with May through September being particularly pleasant. Summer can get busy on weekends but never feels crowded compared to other Czech destinations. Winter brings its own magic if you're into cross-country skiing or simply enjoy the stark beauty of snow-covered forests, though many hiking trails become inaccessible. Fall is genuinely spectacular here - the forest colors are incredible, and you'll have many trails largely to yourself.