7 ideas for autumn walks

Try taking a stroll through Příbram one day, without rushing anywhere. Simply go for a lovely autumn walk. You’ll be surprised how many places suddenly look completely different.

1. The walls at Obora
Once a marshy forest, later a stately game reserve. Today, Hořejší Obora is a romantic oasis of tranquillity in the heart of the city. It is at its most beautiful in autumn, when the colourful trees and houses above the historic ramparts, together with St James’s Church, begin to be reflected on the surface of the pond. Slow down and enjoy the view! Or simply take a leisurely stroll around the area. Lanterns, benches and orange-leaved lime trees combine to create some wonderfully photogenic spots.

2. Arnoštovy sady
From the embankment, continue towards the Zámeček and Příbram Town Hall to Arnoštovy sady, which were created by filling in the castle moats. Every autumn, the lime trees bathe this spot in shades of yellow, orange and brown. The oldest of them have been growing here since the mid-19th century! By the western wall of the manor house, you’ll also come across a curiosity: an unusually large European buckthorn. Zátiší Park, a peaceful open space surrounded by historic buildings, will then lead you to Jiráskovo Park.

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The oldest lime trees in Arnoštovy Sady have been growing there since the mid-19th century, photo: Radka Richterová

3. The gazebo in the municipal spa
The planting of the horse-chestnut avenue, which still dominates the gardens today, was reportedly overseen as early as 1840 by the regional secretary, Baron Wolfgang Julius von Schönau. It was at his instigation that not only Jiráskovy sady but also the nearby Střelovna Park were created. In its central part stands the building of the former municipal spa. You can stroll through the park just as the residents and visitors of Příbram did in the 19th century. Stop off at the wooden pavilion or lose yourself in the maze of paths amongst the centuries-old trees.

4. Colourful Svatá Hora
The most colourful spot in Příbram, especially at this time of year. Make your way here either through Mariánské Valley or past the St Wenceslas Oak. That oak was standing here even before the basilica itself was built! As soon as you climb up to Svatá Hora, time will stand still for you. Sit down on a bench and soak up the autumn atmosphere, stroll through the fallen leaves on Toufarova Meadow, or discover lesser-known corners, such as the Calvary, the water tower or the adjacent Hrabák Gardens. Make your way back to the town via the Svatá Hora cherry orchard – you’ll be rewarded with an unusual view of Příbram – or along the Svatá Hora avenue, which will reward you with more chestnuts for your collection.

5. Melancholy at Nový rybník
Novák is beautiful all year round, but in autumn in particular this place has an unmistakably melancholic atmosphere. The cold pond is a kind of sad reminder of the beautiful summer. But that is precisely why you should visit here and savour the tranquillity of a place that is otherwise bustling with dozens of visitors. Walk all the way round the pond, cross the footbridge to the little island, or discover some of the hidden nooks and crannies that Nový rybník has to offer. From there, you can continue along the ‘green spine’ right into the city centre or head up to Březové Hory.

Novák is beautiful all year round, but this spot has a truly unique atmosphere, especially in autumn. Photo: Radka Richterová

6. The Mysterious Koráb near St Prokop
A little mysterious, a little forgotten. Such is the Church of St Prokop and its surroundings in Březové Hory. Two majestic lime trees, along with maples, ash trees, oaks and birches, stand guard over it and, in autumn, clothe it in shades of yellow and orange. The adjacent Koráb wood is difficult to access in places and has largely been left to develop naturally. And it is precisely this, together with the little church of St Prokop, that makes it an interesting and unusual destination for a weekend autumn walk. You could combine it with a visit to the forest park, for example.

7. Mystical Třemošná
When the forests of Třemošná are shrouded in mist, that is precisely the best time to venture into them. This mystical peak, just a short distance from Příbram yet already within the Brdy forests, is steeped in a host of legends. Take, for instance, the tale of the hermit who bestowed magical pouches upon three brothers. You’ll come across frost-patterned log cabins here, and from the Kazatelna you’ll be treated to a unique view of the town. If you’re lucky, the damp, chilly weather of autumn days will conjure up a uniquely mysterious atmosphere here.

■ Text: Václav Bešťák

■ Photo: Vladimír Holan