EuroVelo 13: Šumava – Lipno Region
The international long-distance cycling route EuroVelo 13 measures over 10,000 km, with 867 km stretching along the Czech border with Bavaria and Austria. Its mission is to serve as a constant reminder of the history of the so-called "Iron Curtain", which divided Europe for more than 40 years. Along the EV 13 route in South Bohemia, you'll encounter many sites that tell the story of this troubled past—through information boards or small museums with period exhibits (e.g., Bučina, Nové Hrady).
"Here, wide forest ridges spread out and gently slope, shading dark blue into valleys where the Vltava gleams silver. In this view, there is indescribable charm and melancholy." These words were written about Horní Planá by its most famous native and one of the great figures of Šumava, Adalbert Stifter. Yet this description could easily capture the entire beauty of the Šumava region. Let this map be your guide in discovering its many hidden corners. This area is also the starting point of major cycling arteries in South Bohemia (Vltava and Otava cycle trails, Golden Trail – Blanice/Volyňka), and Šumava is literally interwoven with a dense network of cycle paths that help reveal all its faces. Keep in mind that you are a guest here – please be respectful not only to nature but also in road traffic and on forest and field paths, to all those who live and work here. The reward will be a meaningful and fulfilling holiday experience.
