A Haunting History: Unveiling the Dark Side of the Czech Republic

Barbora Koskova • 10 June 2024

This blog post is written by Barbora Koskova, our Marketing Intern from the Czech Republic.

A Haunting History: Unveiling the Dark Side of the Czech Republic

As someone who was born and still lives in the Czech Republic, I am here to tell you something about Czech places that carry a dark history with them. These places are not that scary because of their appearance, but because of the urban legends that are told about them. If you're like me and enjoy dark history, you should definitely check them out soon!

The castle “Houska”

The most well-known legend associated with the castle is that it has a direct passage to hell that is located underground. This castle is rumoured to be haunted by demons and ghosts once their time comes, and the passage to...well, let's just say it's not one-way. If you're interested in exploring it, I recommend visiting sooner rather than later – it closes earlier than the others. Also if you are brave enough you might want to check that passage out, but do not let them take you. You don't have to worry though I went there on my own skin and I'm still here.

Sedlec Ossuary

This place is close to a more known city called Kutná Hora. While Kutná Hora has an eerie atmosphere, Sedlec Ossuary is truly unsettling. Have you ever visited the catacombs in Paris? Or the Chapel of Bones in Portugal? Well Sedlec Ossuary is a building completely made of bones. These bones belong to 70 000 poor people that died during the plague. Everything is made of the bones of real people. Even the chandelier. Knowing these aren't props, but the remains of countless souls, is what makes this place so terrifying. If you visit this place, remember the rules and do not take pictures.

The Lemberk mansion

This gothic mansion was built in the 13th century. It's very common to encounter ghosts in this mansion. They are usually followed by decreasing temperature and sudden cold. However you can see them too. Eerie, blurred shapes flit through the mansion's halls daily, accompanied by wisps of unnatural fog. Many witnessed doors opening and closing on their own. Same thing with windows too. I can't forget. Deep within the mansion lies a chamber shrouded in mystery. Unexplained footsteps echo through the halls, and flickering candles dance without a hint of breeze.

The Křivoklát Castle

This castle is actually the oldest castle in the Czech republic. This castle is a magnet for bad luck. This statement comes from the fact that this place burned down countless times. And since this place was used as a prison a lot of prisoners died during these unexplainable fires. A lesser-known legend whispers about the secrets this place holds.The secret states that the souls of dead prisoners still haunt the halls of this castle. The whispers aren't as loud as those surrounding Lemberk, but there's a persistent chill in the air. Many residents report an unsettling feeling of unseen eyes following their every move.

The “Bor” forest

Last but definitely not least is the Bor forest in the very south of Czech republic. Feeling brave? This place is crawling with the whispers of the unknown. Expect strange footsteps, disembodied voices, and a constant sense of being watched. Even though you might be as tough as you want, you really shouldn't walk around this forest alone. Bring a friend or someone who you know and trust. They say people aren't themselves when they leave this place. And that's just the beginning. The stories are so terrifying that some of the people who experienced them left the forest with completely grey hair.

So will you visit them? You really should. The Czech Republic is a fascinating country with a blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. Whether you're seeking spooky legends or a charming travel experience, it has something to offer. You wont regret it. I promise.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Riviera Travel’s New Ships

by Elizabeth Leonard • 6 May 2026

Riviera Travel’s New River Cruise Ships A Fresh Take on European River Cruising If you’ve been looking into European river cruises recently, chances are you’ve come across Riviera Travel — and for good reason. They’ve built a strong reputation for delivering well planned itineraries, beautiful ships, and an easy, relaxed way to explore Europe. And now, with the introduction of their newest Riviera Travel river cruise ships, that experience feels even more refined. The latest additions to the fleet — MS Riviera Radiance and MS Riviera Rose — mark an exciting new chapter, with MS Riviera Resplendence and MS Riviera Reflection set to follow. Together, they represent a thoughtful evolution of Riviera’s river cruising experience in Europe, bringing a fresh, modern feel onboard while staying true to what makes their journeys so popular. One of the first things you’ll notice is the design. The interiors feel bright, elegant, and contemporary, with a real attention to detail throughout. There’s a sense of space in the main lounge, with panoramic windows designed to make the most of the views, while the dining areas feel refined yet relaxed — somewhere you’ll genuinely look forward to spending time each evening. The cabins are just as impressive. Many feature French balconies, allowing you to fully enjoy the ever changing scenery on a Danube river cruise, a Rhine river cruise, or even a journey along the Douro River cruise route. You’ll also find thoughtful touches like comfortable seating areas, well designed bathrooms, and clever storage that makes settling in feel effortless from the start. Onboard, the layout has clearly been designed with comfort in mind. There are inviting social spaces for a drink or a coffee during the day, as well as quieter corners if you want to unwind with a book or simply watch the scenery pass by. The sun deck is another highlight — an ideal spot to take in the views as you sail through some of Europe’s most scenic stretches.

Ordinary on the Map, Unforgettable in Real Life

by Leonor Resende • 23 April 2026

Not every place makes a good first impression. Some destinations look quiet on the map, unremarkable in photos, and easy to overlook when compared to Europe’s better‑known cities and regions. They don’t promise instant wonder or dramatic scenery, they don’t shout for attention, in fact, they can seem so familiar that you wonder whether they’re worth the trip at all. And yet, these are often the places that surprise us the most. Once you arrive, expectations begin to fall away. You stop searching for highlights and start noticing moments instead: the rhythm of daily life, the way people interact with their surroundings, how time feels different when nothing is urging you forward. Slowly, almost without realising it, the place begins to matter. This is the kind of travel that doesn’t reveal itself all at once, it unfolds through small details, unplanned pauses, and experiences that don’t always fit neatly into an itinerary. By the time you leave, you understand something important: the places that felt ordinary before the trip are often the ones that stay with you longest afterward. Europe is full of destinations like this, quiet, understated places that reward curiosity rather than expectation. These are some of them.

Discover Riviera Travel River Cruises: Itineraries, Excursions & Current Offers

by Elizabeth Leonard • 21 April 2026

Explore Riviera Travel river cruise itineraries across the Danube, Rhine, Seine and Douro, with curated excursions and immersive experiences. Now with €99 deposits, 10% off 2027–2028 sailings and limited-time savings on selected 2026 cruises.

Travel the World’s Biggest Music Festivals

by Leonor Resende • 14 April 2026

At their core, music festivals are more than live performances or carefully curated line‑ups. They are cultural gatherings, temporary communities where locals and travellers come together in shared spaces shaped by creativity, tradition, and emotion. For a few days or weeks, familiar landscapes are transformed, and in that transformation a place reveals how it celebrates, how it communicates, and how it welcomes outsiders. These moments go beyond what happens on stage. Festivals unfold within real places, not isolated bubbles, and they carry the imprint of their surroundings. The food reflects regional traditions, the rhythms of daily life seep into the schedule, and local values are expressed through art, design, and the way people interact. Whether set in countryside fields, historic cities, or coastal neighbourhoods, festivals offer travellers an unusually intimate way to experience a destination. This is what makes music festivals such compelling entry points for cultural travel. They encourage movement without urgency, discovery without a checklist, and connection without preconception. Rather than following an itinerary, travellers follow a feeling, allowing sound, place, and human connection to shape the journey. In these moments, travel becomes less about where you go next, and more about how deeply you experience where you are.

The Ultimate Malta travel guide: Top Attractions & Hidden Gems

by Kelly Collins • 1 April 2026

Malta is one of those places that completely catches you off guard, in the best ways imaginable. For such a tiny island nation, it packs more beauty, history and “wait, why does nobody talk about this?!” moments than seems fair. One minute you're wandering through golden stone streets that look straight out of a period drama, and the next you're floating in shockingly blue water, wondering why it isn't illegal for the sea to look that good. It’s the kind of destination where the big attractions blow your way, but the hidden corners are what quietly steal your heart This guide is here to walk you through Malta the way a fellow traveller would, with honest insight, friendly advice and all the info you need to make your trip effortless and unforgettable

Find Your Perfect Holiday Based on Your Personality

by Leonor Resende • 27 March 2026

Choosing a holiday is more than deciding on a place to visit, it’s choosing the version of yourself you want to step into for a little while. Some people come alive on high mountain trails, others find their joy floating in warm turquoise seas. Some feel energised exploring new cultures, while others crave nothing more than sunshine, good food and the simple luxury of slowing down. Travel isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. It’s personal. It’s emotional. It’s a reflection of you. And that’s why the best holidays aren’t picked at random, they’re chosen by discovering what kind of traveller you truly are. Are you the adventurer? The luxury seeker? The family memory‑maker? The culture lover? Or the dreamer ready to explore a far‑flung corner of the world? When you match your personality to the right holiday style, something magical happens: the anticipation grows, the excitement builds, and suddenly the journey feels like it’s already begun. So let’s dive in. Let’s explore the escape that suits your spirit, the holiday that feels like it was created with you in mind. Your perfect match is waiting…and it might just surprise you.

The Rise of Fitness Tourism: Why Irish Travellers are going abroad for races & events

by Kelly Collins • 25 March 2026

If you have noticed more Irish people swapping sun loungers for start lines, you are not imagining it. Fitness tourism, sometimes called race-cation have become one of the fastest growing travel trends for Irish holidaymakers. From destination marathons to HYROX events abroad, more of us are choosing to travel with a purpose, challenge ourselves in new cities and come home with a medal rather than just a tan. And the numbers back it up. Global marathon participation rose 9% last year, with runners increasingly choosing races based on location rather than proximity to home. HYROX, too, has exploded on social media, giving travellers a whole new kind of event to plan trips around So what's behind Ireland's growing love affair with fitness-focused travel? Let's break it down.

Top 6 Travel Destinations with Direct Flights from Cork Airport for 2026

by Leonor Resende • 25 March 2026

Imagine Cork Airport not as a terminal, but as a hallway lined with doors, each one opening onto a completely different world. Behind one door: golden beaches warmed by the Canary sun. Behind another: cobblestone streets, cafés buzzing with conversation, and the soft glow of city lights reflecting off canal water. Further down, a hidden gem on the Adriatic coast invites you to slow down, wander, taste, and explore. No matter what type of traveller you are, sun chaser, culture seeker, foodie, or adventurer, Cork’s direct flight network now connects you to the places you’ve been dreaming about. Here are six of the most inspiring destinations you can reach in just one flight. Step through any door you like.

Rocky coastline with green mountains meeting the blue ocean under a bright sky.

Madeira: The Island That Feels Like Five Destinations in One

by Leonor Resende • 12 March 2026

When most people think of island holidays, they imagine one thing: golden sandy beaches and long, lazy days by the sea, but the Portuguese island of Madeira is unlike any other. In this destination, you can experience landscapes and activities that feel like travelling across several destinations. One moment you’re wandering misty mountain peaks shrouded in clouds, the next you’re swimming in volcanic pools, and by evening, you could be savouring world-famous wine while watching the sun dip into the Atlantic. Madeira is nature, adventure, culture, and relaxation all in one compact island. Here’s why it’s a destination you simply cannot miss.

Open suitcase with hat, sunglasses, headphones, camera, phone, and clothing on a bed.

Where to Travel in Summer 2026 in Europe

by Leonor Resende • 5 March 2026

Summer 2026 is just around the corner, and travellers are already dreaming of sunny beaches, cultural getaways, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're planning a short city break, a family holiday, or a luxury escape, knowing which European destinations are trending this year can help you plan the perfect getaway. From the postcard-perfect cliffs of Santorini, Greece, to the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, Croatia, the rustic beauty of Calabria, Italy, the cultural energy of Bilbao, Spain, and the year‑round sunshine of Tenerife, Europe is full of extraordinary places waiting to be explored this summer. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the hottest destinations of 2026, complete with insider tips, must‑see attractions, and ideas to help you plan the perfect summer getaway.

0214851711

A Haunting History: Unveiling the Dark Side of the Czech Republic