Waking up in Klínovec was like stepping into a snow globe. As I mentioned yesterday, six inches of fresh snow had transformed the landscape into a magical winter wonderland. After breakfast, we decided to embrace the day and rent a sledge for some snowy fun.

Renting the sledge turned into a bit of an adventure. With no Czech skills on my part and minimal English on the shopkeeper’s, we relied on some enthusiastic hand signals to figure it out. Thankfully, we got there in the end, and soon we were ready to tackle the snowy hills with our new wooden sledge.

The runs leading to the main slopes were long, winding, and full of life, with others enjoying them just as much as we were. Georgia and I spent the morning zipping down the hills, the cold air in our faces and laughter echoing through the snow. Dotty, on the other hand, was content pottering about refusing glove and unsure about exploring the fluffy white wonderland.

By lunchtime, we were ready for a break. We headed to the ski lodge to warm up and refuel, enjoying the view of skiers gracefully weaving down the slopes. The atmosphere was perfect, but Dotty soon after lunch decided it was nap time. Ali took her back to the car while Georgia and I carried on sledging for a couple more hours.

The sledge itself brought back memories of a colleague back in the UK who had purchased one years ago (that looked like our rented one) but I don’t think he ever got to use it due to the lack of snow. Let me tell you these wooden sledges are amazing. Sledging was an absolute blast!

I don’t know what it is but there is something magical about racing down a hill with the wind in your face, surrounded by snow sat on a box. Don’t just take my word for it, watch the video and see for yourself how much fun we had! Sadly I never got on the slopes but maybe another time!

As the day came to an end, we reluctantly packed up at about 3:30 and headed back, still buzzing from the fun and feeling rosy-cheeked from all the fresh mountain air. With the snow piling up and the temperatures staying well below freezing, tomorrow promises more snowy adventures.

Perhaps we’ll find another hill to conquer or try something new whatever it is, Klínovec is sure to deliver, until tomorrow.

Learn more about Snowy Sledging Fun!

Learn more about Snowy Sledging Fun!

The post Klínovec A Day of Sledge Adventures appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Leaving Prague was bittersweet, this city never fails to charm. Before we set off, we had one last adventure at Prague Castle. Navigating the roads there was an experience unsure whether it was our turn or the trams’, we managed to make it through with a bit of improvisation.

The castle itself? Simply stunning after looking around Ali and Georgia ventured up the bell tower of St. Vitus Cathedral, soaking in the views that I’m told were breathtaking views. Meanwhile, Dotty and I embraced a more grounded approach, enjoying a slice of cake and some coffee (juice for her, of course) in the courtyard café, marvelling at the grandeur around us.

Upon reflection it’s clear to say that Prague truly leaves you wanting more, with its cobblestone streets, majestic landmarks, and the bustling vibe of a city that feels alive in every corner. The weather was peculiar today, very hot as we drove away it was still hovering around 11 or 12 degrees, not the – we had been accustomed to over the last few weeks, it felt surprisingly warm for January. But what awaited us in Klínovec was a different world entirely.

We arrived around 4 PM to heavy rain and 7 degrees there was remnants of snow from previous weeks, now very slushy and wet. After unpacking, I took a quick trip across the border into Germany to pick up some dinner (the nearest supermarket). The drive through the hills was surreal, with thick fog clinging to the slopes, making the whole scene feel straight out of a movie I didn’t even see the border checkpoint (typically they are unmanned but not always)

Anyhow, by the time I returned and got the kids to bed, winter had fully reasserted itself. Glancing out the window, I saw two inches of fresh snow already blanketing the ground and I was glad I went shopping before putting kids to bed!. By the morning, that had doubled to five inches. Klínovec has no intention of letting the snow go away, with daytime temperatures predicted to linger at -5°C for the week ahead.

Tomorrow might just call for a classic winter adventure so I’ll be looking to rent a toboggan or sledge for some fun in the hills. Here’s to embracing the frosty charm of this beautiful region!

Learn more about Prague to Klínovec Adventure!

Learn more about Prague to Klínovec Adventure!

Learn more about Prague to Klínovec Adventure!

Learn more about Prague to Klínovec Adventure!

The post Prague to Klínovec a contrasting adventure appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Budapest winter charm

Budapest in winter is pretty cold it seem, but today was the day the cold really made itself known. Was it worth braving the freezing temperatures? Absolutely.

Our day began on Castle Hill, one of Budapest’s most iconic and historic sites. This hilltop retreat, crowned by the Buda Palace, offered a stunning backdrop of the fog covered Danube and cityscape. We wandered through its cobblestone streets, taking in the grand architecture and imagining life in centuries past, loads of construction to rebuild historic buildings is ongoing and must be costing a fortune.

As the frosty air started to bite, we were saved by a local favourite chimney cakes (kürtőskalács). Ali grabbed a couple of these sweet, doughy treats, freshly roasted over open flames and coated in cinnamon sugar. Warm, soft, and absolutely delicious, they gave us the boost we needed to carry on despite the cold.

After exploring Castle Hill, our adventure continued as we dived into Budapest’s fantastic public transport system. A quick bus ride took us through the city streets, followed by a journey aboard a tram, both of which were simple to catch brought us closer to the frosted hills, where the real magic of the day awaited.

The Cogwheel Railway A Journey Through Time

Next, we hopped on the Cogwheel Railway, a charming vintage train designed to climb the steep slopes of the Buda Hills. This railway dates back to the late 19th century and has retained much of its original charm. As we chugged up the hill, the snowy scenery unfolded around us. Frosted trees lined the track, and fine snowflakes began to fall, creating a true winter wonderland.

For the kids, the Cogwheel was a bit scary but exciting at the same time, loud clunking and juddering with white trees outside made it a strange magical adventure. And at the top, the highlight of our day was waiting.

At the summit of the Cogwheel Railway, we boarded the Children’s Railway, a truly unique experience that has captivated visitors since the 1940s. Operated almost entirely by children (under adult supervision), this railway is a fascinating blend of history and charm.

The train took us deep into the snow-covered Buda Hills. As snowflakes drifted lazily through the air and the trees stood cloaked in frost, the scenery felt like something out of a fairy tale.

The young conductors and ticket collectors dressed in full uniform added to the charm. Their enthusiasm and professionalism brought a sense of nostalgia and joy to the journey and the children stood and salute at every station which added to the charm, the Children’s Railway is an absolute must-do in Budapest.

This was by far the coldest day of our travels, with temperatures biting deep and frost clinging to everything in sight. But the warmth of chimney cakes to the enchantment of the Children’s Railway, every moment made braving the chill worthwhile.

I think it’s safe to say that Budapest in winter offers a unique charm you won’t find anywhere else. Wrap up warm, embrace the frost, and experience the magic of its historic hills and its railway adventures.

Have you experienced the charm of Budapest in winter? Share your favourite memories in the comments below!

Learn more about Budapest winter charm!

The post New years Day in Budapest: Light Snow, Castle Hill, and the Magic of the Children’s Railway appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

After an eventful day of rescuing elves (yes, really!), we made our way to a cozy apartment near Plitvice Lakes, booked through Booking.com. With the snow still blanketing the ground from the previous week, the entire area looked like a scene out of a winter fairytale.

The next morning, we set out to explore the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park. The hills dusted in snow made the emerald waters of the lakes shimmer even more beautifully. We strolled along the trails, marvelling at the cascading waterfalls and taking in the serenity of the surroundings. After some quality time soaking in the views, we grabbed a comforting hot chocolate while waiting for the boat that would ferry us across the lake. The short ride was peaceful and gave us a new perspective of the landscape before we hopped on a bus back to the starting point.

With Plitvice behind us, we hit the road again for our next stop: Camp Terme Jezerčica. After about two hours of driving, we arrived at the family-friendly resort, and Georgia’s eyes lit up the moment she spotted the indoor pool. It was nearly 5 PM, and while the outdoor waterpark was closed for the winter, the resort’s indoor offerings were more than enough to keep us entertained.

We quickly changed into our swim gear and headed to the pools, which included three indoor heated options, a dedicated kids’ area, and even indoor slides. The evening turned into a splash filled adventure with smiles, laughter, and fun for all of us. Georgia and Dotty couldn’t get enough of the slides, and even Ali and I found ourselves caught up in the fun.

By the end of the day, we were all feeling a bit knackered, understatement of the year! but it was well worth it. From snowy landscapes to poolside adventures. Now we’re ready for whatever tomorrow brings!

If you’re looking for a family-friendly escape with a mix of outdoor wonder and indoor fun, both Plitvice Lakes and Camp Terme Jezerčica should be on your travel list.

Tip:

• Visiting Plitvice Lakes in the snow is magical, but bring several warm layers and sturdy shoes for the trails.

Stay tuned for more of our adventures as we continue exploring this magical part of the world!

Learn more about Winter Wonderland Adventure!

Learn more about Winter Wonderland Adventure!

The post From Plitvice Snowy Lakes to Poolside Adventures appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.