Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
He's a treasure trove of hospitality and wine knowledge, but speaks
only Czech and German. Antonín can also help you arrange a
homestay in some of the villages nearby (closed Sun-Mon, tel.
519-415-742 or 519-515-230).
Mikulov
An important border town on the amber road from the Baltic Sea
to the Adriatic, Mikulov (MEE-kuh-lohv, think “Mikulov, not
war”) was brief ly the capi-
tal of Moravia. W hen the
Austrian kings expelled the
Jews from Austria in the
early 1400s, the Jews settled
here on the border, making
up half the town's popula-
tion and forming the largest
Czech Jewish community
outside of Prague. The rail-
way line to Vienna bypassed Mikulov, condemning it to a stagna-
tion that mercifully protected it from Industrial Age construction.
Mikulov was the seat of the leading Moravian rabbi until World
War II.
Today, all that remains of Mikulov's past glory are a syna-
gogue, a cemetery, and a few traditional houses along Husova
street below the castle. Still, it's an enjoyable and historic town
that comes alive during vintage festivals. Mikulov makes a fine
lunch stop if you're driving to Lednice or Vienna.
ORIENTATION
Tourist Information
The TI on the main square is a wealth of information about the
entire region. They give out free maps and good biking informa-
tion, and can help arrange accommodations (Mon-Fri 8:00-18:00,
Sat-Sun 9:00-18:00, tel. 519-510-855 or 519-512-200, www
.mikulov.cz).
Helpful Hints
Bike Rental:
A popular way to explore the surrounding wine
region is on bicycle (the TI hands out a free map describing
trails and can direct you to a rental place).
Car Rental:
If you're arriving in the Czech Republic by train from
Vienna or Budapest and will need to return there, consider
