Exploring Mikulov, then back to Prague
Today we arrived in Mikulov, an enchanting, almost fairytale-like town in the midst of a stunning countryside. Vineyards surround the town in all directions. Just on the outskirt of the main square is a butte known as Svatý kopeček (Holy Hill) that we climbed. The Holy Hill provides some stunning views of the dominating Baroque château in the center of town, and peaceful landscapes beyond. We found this romantic pathway that meandered down the butte through the town’s vineyards in which we walked, eventually arriving at a Jewish cemetery and museum. This is one of the oldest and largest Jewish cemeteries in the country and dates to the mid 15th century.
We continued our stroll into the town center, and soon, the majestic Mikulov Château revealed itself. This château is an old ancestral seat, with a history stretching back a thousand years, evidence of which is provided by the Gothic towers in its baileys. Its Renaissance renovation is hidden from view by the Baroque alterations performed at the beginning of the eighteenth century.
Inside we toured the chateau cellars where we learned about the region’s centuries-old wine producing traditions, as well as other exhibitions on the town’s history. The highlight of the cellar tour was the massive wine barrel…when it was in use it held 11 thousand liters (nearly 3000 gallons). The barrel is 15′ high and over 18′ long. Believe it or not, this is not the largest wine barrel in the world, as a matter of fact, there are 25 that are larger. The barrel was constructed in 1643 and took five men working full time 260 days to complete. We learned another interesting tidbit…it would take a person 80 years, drinking 3.5 liters a day to empty the barrel. That really put the size and scale into perspective.
As we left the château we admired the ornately decorated houses and the imposing Dietrichstein Mausoleum. A relaxing stroll through the charming town center on the main square concluded our brief tour of Mikulov.
When we arrived in Prague we were in for a treat, we stayed at one of the finest hotels in all of Prague, the Aria Hotel. If staying in one of the nicest hotels in town were not enough, we got upgraded to the Presidential suite…a real one in fact, as President Bill Clinton himself once stayed in the very room we’re in. The entire theme of the Aria is wrapped around music. Each floor has it’s own genre, and each room is named for an artist that represents that style of music. We were on the classical floor and our room was none other than Mozart.
The hotel is surrounded by Baroque palaces with its own private entrance to the Vrtba Garden, which is the oldest Baroque garden in Prague.The gardens are so well manicure and provides an amazing setting for the hotel, especially from our room as we overlook the gardens. The gardens are terraced up a hillside, and once at the top level, the height provides some spectacular views of Prague.
After getting settled in and freshed up, we headed to the lobby for some outstanding live jazz music. The timing was perfect, because as the music ended, it was time for our dinner reservations. While the restaurant dining area is sensational, we opted to dine on the rooftop terrace since it was such a lovely evening.
Oh how we did not want the evening to end. Not only did we feel like a prince and princess staying at the Aria, but it would mark the end of our two week road trip through the Czech Republic. So many fond memories and amazing experiences. This had been my second time to the Czech Republic and I sure hope it will not be the last. If you missed any of my Czech Republic Road Diary updates, click here.
Mike Shubic
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