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| Czech
Republic Sports |
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The Czech Republic has
a wealth of areas to explore. More than 10 per cent of the country’s
area is occupied by the three national parks and the 1200 protected
natural areas.
Cycling
Cycling is a popular pastime, and the network of cycle tracks is
growing. Southern Bohemia is a good place for this.
Golf
This sport is becoming increasingly popular, with some beautiful
courses. Contact the Czech
Golf Federation for more information (telephone: (2) 5731 7865;
fax: (2) 5731 8618; e-mail: cgf@cgf.cz)
Hiking
The Krkonoše are the Czech Republic’s
highest mountain range, with the country’s highest peak, Snezka
(1602m or 5255ft). Several other peaks exceed 1500m or 4920ft. Less
strenuous hikes can be pursued in other natural areas, such as the
Beskidy range and contain marked trails.
Horse riding
Horse riding is popular, with many stables offering riding holidays
or treks. Contact the Czech Horse Riding Federation for more information
(telephone: (2) 2051 1105; fax (2) 3335 4399; email: info@cjf.cz).
Rock climbing
Rock climbers should head to the sandstone rock formations in the
north (Cesky raj, Andršpach Rocks and Ceskosaské
Švycarsko). Cavers should visit the
Moravsky Kras (Moravian karst) near Brno, where
there are interesting caves.
Skiing
Skiing is very popular and there are many well-established resorts.
The most frequented areas for downhill skiing are in the Krkonoše
(Giant Mountains) in north Bohemia, where Pec
pod Snezkou, Spindlorov Mlyn
and Harachov are the main resorts. Facilities are
also found in the Jeseniky and Besniky
ranges, and in the Orlické Hory
(Eagle Mountains).
Cross-country
skiing is a widespread sport, and facilities and tracks
are found in the Krkonose and in the Šumava
(Bohemian Forest) in southern Bohemia.
Watersports
There are many lakes, both natural and artificial, and a variety
of watersports can be enjoyed.
South Bohemia and Lednice-Valtice (south Moravia) contain extensive
fishing lakes. For more information, contact the Czech Angling Federation
(telephone: (2) 7481 1751; fax: (2) 7481 1754; email: radacrs@ipnet.cz).
Canoeing is popular on rivers such as the
Luznice, upper Vltava and Sazava.
Windsurfing
and sailing equipment can be rented at various locations.
Spas
The numerous thermal springs and
mineral baths in Bohemia
and Moravia have been frequented by patients seeking
cures for ailments for centuries. Today, advanced medical techniques
are combined with traditional methods of treatment.
The best known spas are Karlovy Vary, Marianské
Lazne and Františkovy Lazné
(see the Resorts & Excursions section for details). There are
world-famous radioactive springs in Jáchymov, specialising
in the treatment of disorders of the nervous system, while Janské
Lazne in the Krkonose is also a popular resort. In northern Moravia,
the most significant spas are at Jesenik and Luhacovice, where Dr.Vincenc
Priessnitz developed methods of treatment that are still followed
today. All the spa resorts are located in beautiful surroundings.
For further information on spa stays, contact the Czech
Tourist Authority. |
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