Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has a fairy tale element, dotted as it is by castles and palaces, thick woodlands and spectacular valleys. It has only been a country since 1993, but the area was once made up of the ancient kingdoms of Bohemia and Moravia, much-tussled-over countries at the heart of Europe.

The capital Prague is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, with red-roofed and pastel-shaded houses, a huge castle, decorative squares and the glorious Charles Bridge, topped by dramatic statues. Prague is not only breathtaking, but also impeccably cultured, and there are many more ancient towns and natural wonders to explore in the surrounding countryside.