Bohemian Uplands: Garnet panning, Farm & Local Lunch&Beer

If you’re thinking about taking a day out of Prague to experience something more than just city streets, this tour of the Bohemian Uplands might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a satisfying mix of nature, local culture, and delicious food—all led by knowledgeable guides who know how to make the day both relaxing and engaging.

What really stands out, for us and from others’ reviews, are the stunning volcanic landscapes and the unique activity of garnet panning—a real gem of a souvenir to take home. Plus, the chance to pet farm animals and enjoy a hearty Czech lunch with local beer makes it feel like a true taste of the countryside.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves some walking and off-road driving, so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of mobility. If you’re after a laid-back day with plenty of scenic views and cultural insights, this experience hits the mark. It’s especially good for those who enjoy nature, good food, and hands-on activities.

This tour would suit travelers who want a full, well-rounded day with a local touch—perfect for curious explorers, food lovers, and anyone looking for a relaxed escape from city life.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: Experience volcanic scenery, picturesque villages, and medieval castles.
• Authentic Activities: Pan for genuine Czech garnets and make your own souvenir.
• Local Flavor: Enjoy homemade cheese, regional dishes, and local beers in cozy countryside settings.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides are ready to answer questions about Czech history, traditions, and daily life.
• Flexible & Comfortable: Small group sizes and a 4WD vehicle make the trip accessible and intimate.
• Balanced Experience: A mix of sightseeing, tasting, and interactive activities, suited for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: A Taste of Czech Nature and Culture

This tour is designed as a relaxed yet enriching way to explore a less-visited corner of the Czech Republic. You start with a convenient pickup from Prague and quickly find yourself in the Central Bohemian Region, where the landscape feels like stepping into a postcard.

The volcanic terrain is the star here. Extinguished volcanoes carve out a landscape unlike many other parts of Europe—think gentle hills, rugged outcrops, and views that seem to stretch forever. From the comfort of a 4WD vehicle, you’ll traverse small villages, green fields, and hills, soaking in the natural beauty and the slow pace of rural life.

The Highlights That Make This Tour Stand Out

The Volcanic Landscape: Nature’s Artwork

One of the most captivating parts of this trip is the scenery. The dramatic volcanic formations offer a unique backdrop for photos, and it’s hard not to be struck by how untouched and pristine it feels. Guides often point out the castles and villages dotting the landscape, giving context to the history and how these natural features shaped the local culture.

Garnet Panning: A Hands-On Treasure Hunt

The garnet panning is a highlight for many. It’s a chance to search for real Bohemian garnets, the deep red mineral prized worldwide. The guides not only facilitate the activity but also share insights about garnets’ significance in jewelry making. Making your own keepsake is a fun, tactile experience that adds a personal touch to your trip.

More Great Tours Nearby

Farm Visit & Cheese Tasting: Authentic Countryside Life

A stop at a local farm offers a break from sightseeing and a chance to pet and feed farm animals like cows and cats. The homemade cheese tasting is a simple yet tasty experience, giving you an authentic taste of rural Czech life. You might even buy some locally produced cheese or other farm products.

Cozy Countryside Lunch & Beer

The lunch spot is a smaller, countryside restaurant with a view of the volcanoes and castles. The menu caters to a variety of tastes, featuring traditional dishes like trout, beef, lamb, and venison, often served with sauerkraut and dumplings. You can enjoy unlimited local beer, including Pilsner Urquell and a special lager from a nearby microbrewery, making this a real treat for beer lovers.

Additional Historic Stops

Post-lunch, the tour includes visits to medieval castle ruins and the Romanesque rotunda of St. Peter and Paul, both rich in history and offering great viewpoints. The castle ruins provide a sense of medieval history and panoramic views, while the rotunda, dating back to around 1230, adds a touch of historical grandeur.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start with pickup in Prague, then head into the Bohemian Uplands with a scenic drive accompanied by commentary from your guide.
• Photo stops and sightseeing along the way, giving you plenty of opportunities to capture the landscape’s beauty.
• A stop for regional food and beer around midday, with the chance to relax and chat with your guide about Czech culture.
• Afternoon visits include a gothic castle ruin with spectacular views and a small church that dates back to the 13th century.
• The farm visit wraps things up, providing a hands-on experience with local farm life.

What’s Included & Practical Details

The tour is priced at $294 per person, which, considering the inclusions, offers good value. It covers everything from transport in a comfortable 4×4, to a local guided tour, lunch with unlimited beer, and garnet panning—a variety of experiences for a full day out.

The group size is limited to six guests maximum, ensuring a more personalized experience. Pickup and drop-off from your Prague accommodation are included, which simplifies planning.

The tour lasts around 7 hours, making it a manageable day without feeling rushed or overly long. Wearing outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes is recommended, especially since you’ll be exploring some uneven terrain and historic sites.

This experience is a good fit for travelers who want an authentic taste of Czech countryside without strenuous activity. It’s suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives, interactive activities like garnet panning, and delicious regional food and beer. If you’re interested in history, rural life, and natural beauty all rolled into one, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.

Because it’s designed with small groups and personal interaction in mind, it’s perfect for travelers who value intimate, friendly environments. It’s not ideal for wheelchair users due to some uneven terrain and site access, but if you’re physically able, it’s a wonderful way to see the countryside.

Is the tour suitable for seniors or less mobile travelers?
Yes, the tour is designed as an easy-going experience, suitable for most with good mobility. It involves some walking at sites, but the main activities are accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring outdoor clothing and comfortable walking shoes, especially for exploring the farm and historic sites.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, you get a local lunch with unlimited beer and soft drinks like draft lemonade. Tasting of homemade cheese and local snacks is also included.

Can I buy souvenirs or farm products?
Absolutely. You can purchase local cheese and other products at the farm.

What is garnet panning like?
It’s a hands-on, fun activity where you search for real Bohemian garnets in a stream. You’ll make your own jewelry or souvenir to take home.

Is the group small or large?
The tour limits groups to a maximum of 6 guests for a more personal experience.

What are the main highlights I can expect?
Expect breathtaking landscapes, garnet panning, a hearty Czech lunch, visits to medieval castles and historic churches, and a farm visit.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

What’s the transportation like?
You’ll ride in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle, perfect for off-road sections and scenic drives.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While families with older children might enjoy it, it’s not specifically tailored for very young kids or those with mobility challenges.

All in all, the Bohemian Uplands tour offers a genuine, varied taste of Czech countryside life, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see beyond Prague’s streets and experience the authentic charm of rural Bohemia. With knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and interactive activities like garnet panning, you’re in for a memorable day that balances relaxation with engaging experiences.

If you’re someone who appreciates good food, local beers, and stories about the land and history, this tour will likely hit all the right notes. It’s not overly structured or touristy, but rather a well-curated experience you’ll feel part of. Just be ready for some light walking and a fair amount of scenic driving, and you’ll come away with great memories and a few unique souvenirs in hand.

Let this adventure be your laid-back escape into the heart of Czech nature and tradition. Perfect for curious travelers who want to combine stunning scenery, local culture, and a touch of treasure hunting—all in one satisfying day.

You can check availability for your dates here: