My husband and I spent a week in Cesky Krumlov while he was teaching a course. The choice of hotel and all arrangements were made by the sponsoring organization, so we had no idea what to expect., but were a little apprehensive, as sometimes the housing provided by the scholastic organization leaves a bit to be desired. Our van trip from Vienna was filled with excitement, with our driver Daniel texting and speeding through the fog and snow (yikes!) We were more than ready to get to the hotel, and hoped that it would be warm and friendly.

When we arrived, we realized our worries (at least about our lodgings, I'm still quivering from the van ride) were misplaced. What a cute, warm and homey little hotel! Our room was up on the second floor, a short walk from the front desk and the restaurant. Painted a light shade of green, the room was furnished with rustic furniture, had comfortable and warm beds, and a large and modern bathroom. The room was exceptionally clean. The only part of the room that was less than stellar was the television reception, but I think that might be a function of Cesky Krumlov, and not necessarily the hotel. And who wants to watch TV anyway when staying in such a beautiful village. The location of the hotel can't be beat - right in the town square.

The desk staff were very helpful, making numerous phone calls for us to make sure of opening and closing times of restaurants, and to set up bowing reservations for us at the local alley (I think they had six or eight lanes - we had a great time there one night with a group of course instructors. Watch out for the gruff guy who rents the lanes and shoes - no English spoken, but we had a German speaker with us and had little difficulty).

We had breakfast every day at the hotel and it was fine - plentiful but not as many choices as our hotel in Vienna. I have no idea if the hotel or the restaurant were good value, as the sponsoring organization paid the tab without us seeing it.

Cesky Krumlov is a beautiful little town, with cobblestone streets, a castle, a brewery, a couple of lovely churches to see and a plethora of well-priced local-style restaurants. Shopping is great. I would love to go back in the summer time when it is nice and toasty, but there was something very special about experiencing the place in the snow - it looked like a fairytale village. And if I do get the chance to return, I'll be staying at the Hotel Zlaty Andel.