There’s something magical about escaping to the mountains during winter, and the Czech Republic’s stunning landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for a family holiday. This year, we traded the hustle of daily life for a cozy, snowy retreat in the Czech mountains, and it was everything we hoped for—and more.
A Change of Pace
We were so lucky to have a few days off to spend in the beautiful Czech mountains, specifically in the Bohemian Forest. After the busy Advent season, we were ready for a quieter, slower-paced holiday. The Czech mountains have this unassuming charm, where life feels simpler, and time seems to stretch out. We packed the car with warm clothes, a thermos of tea, and just enough snacks to keep the kids happy on the journey. By the time we reached my parents’ mountain cottage nestled in the hills, we could feel the weight of everyday life start to lift. We also wanted to enjoy the Czech mountains and even took a brief trip to our favorite spot, Großer Arbersee, which is very close to Jacob’s parents’ mountain cottage.
Lucas and His First REAL Snow
The best part of our trip? Lucas got to experience real snow for the first time! Back in England, we had a few snowy days during the so-called ‘Beast from the East,’ but the snow usually vanished as quickly as it arrived. This time, Lucas was absolutely thrilled to see snow that stayed. We even tried sledding down the hills (skiing next time in February!), and watching his excitement made the trip unforgettable.
The twins also loved the snowy adventures, though they often fell asleep by the time we reached the hillier, snow-covered areas—haha! We made up for it by taking plenty of family walks around the cottage, so they still had plenty of chances to experience the snow firsthand.
Snowy Adventures
My parents’ cottage felt like something out of a winter dream—wooden beams and views of snow-covered trees stretching into the horizon. The kids were overjoyed to discover a playroom area in the attic, while Jacob and I settled into the living room with steaming mugs of spicy winter tea, marveling at how peaceful it felt to be surrounded by nature.
Our days were filled with simple joys. We bundled up in our warmest clothes and headed out to explore snowy trails. I even tested out my new winter hand-knitted headband in retro Czech colors—perfect for keeping cozy while adding a fun touch to my outfit. Watching the kids’ faces light up as they tossed snowballs and built a (slightly lopsided) snowman reminded me how much happiness can be found in the simplest activities.
A Taste of Czech Winter Traditions
No trip to the Czech mountains would be complete without indulging in local winter traditions. One afternoon, we stopped at a cozy chalet for a classic Czech treat: hot červené víno (mulled wine) for the adults and warm, spiced orange juice for the kids. The smell of spices and the warmth of the drinks made it impossible not to relax.
In the evenings, we cooked hearty meals together, often inspired by Czech recipes. Of course, we didn’t forget dumplings, and we even managed to bake some homemade strudel, which made it to our table alongside other comforting dishes. After dinner, we’d gather around the kitchen table for board games and storytelling—a chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect as a family.
Embracing the Quiet
What struck me most about our time in the mountains was the quiet. At night, the only sounds were the crackle of the fire and the occasional gust of wind outside. It gave us space to reflect, unwind, and truly be present with one another. For the kids, it was an adventure; for us, it was a much-needed reset.
Making Memories
Our holiday in the Czech mountains reminded me of the beauty in slowing down. The kids returned home rosy-cheeked and full of stories about their snowy escapades, while Jacob and I felt a renewed sense of connection. It’s a trip we’ll cherish and one we’ll likely make a tradition.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly winter getaway that combines adventure with coziness, the Czech mountains are waiting. Bring warm clothes, a sense of adventure, and an appreciation for life’s simplest pleasures—you won’t be disappointed.
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