LedniceCzech Republic

Situated in the heart of Moravia’s wine country is the beautiful village of Lednice. What makes the area special is the vast swathe of protected countryside between it and the neighboring town of Valtice. This is the Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk or cycle through the spectacular scenery, home to chateaus, vineyards, gardens, parks and lakes.

Since the Middle Ages, Lednice and the surrounding area has been owned by the noble Liechtenstein family. As they acquired land and wealth, the family undertook ambitious building projects. This included the creation of the cultural landscape, which at approximately 42,491 acres (20,000 hectares) is one of the largest manmade landscapes in the world. It features two castles, one in Lednice, the other in Valtice.

Tour Lednice Castle and wander around the gorgeous grounds. Scattered among the trees, lawns and ponds are several follies, including a Moorish-style lakeside minaret and faux castle ruins, known as John’s Castle. There is also a greenhouse with lots of exotic plants, trees and flowers.

Make your way to Valtice Chateau, 5 miles (8 kilometers) southwest of Lednice Castle. This Baroque former residence of the Lichtenstein family is known for its long winemaking tradition. Enjoy a wine-tasting session in its Chateau Cellar.

East of the chateau amid forested parkland lies Rendez-vous, a 19th-century hunting lodge. Come here to browse the Roman-style design elements including reliefs depicting scenes from Greek and Roman mythology. For impressive views over the entire Lednice-Valtice area, head to the top of Reistna Hill. At this elevated spot is a colonnade decorated with ancient mythological figures.

Make the most of Lednice’s gorgeous scenery by walking or cycling along its extensive trails. Sooth tired muscles with a rejuvenating treatment at the Lednice Spa.

The lush countryside and historical buildings of Lednice are in the south of the Czech Republic near the Austrian border. One way to reach Lednice is by bus from the town of Břeclav, which is 5 miles (8 kilometers) away and connected to other Czech destinations by train.