At Slowhop, we are basically looking for "places with the soul". But we did not expect that we would be able to find accommodation that is the soul of an amazing Czech artist.

In the historical part of Český Krumlov there is a space that was until recently the studio of Miroslav Páral. Although his first artistic moves in the 1980s concerned earthenware, he quickly became a master of reliefs and sculptures. A strange torso formed under his hands, which he called "fujtajblíci". He shows man not as a personality, but as a biological being, an organism.

In 2010, an exhibition opened in the Český Krumlov synagogue, which was the culmination of the sculptor's period, which he devoted to the issue of deportation. As a child, he found a suitcase at home in the attic after the displaced Germans - "empty, filled only with pain, frustration and helplessness." As a reminder of the sense of futility, he erected 16 suitcases in the Synagogue, which in a row looked as if they were still waiting for someone. This exhibition was to sound like an excuse that was never made public.

Spending time in Atelier Páral is not just about finding a place to sleep. It is an experience that will dig deep into your heart.

Absolutely unique, duplex apartment will show you a whole new face of Český Krumlov. The open space is filled with many works of art by my dad, sculptor Paral. We don't have a TV. Why too? You live in a gallery and from the windows you have an absolutely exemplary view of the city and the river.

BEDROOM

Upstairs is an open bedroom with a double bed. The beautiful attic space is designed for relaxation and is therefore clean, almost unencumbered by art. Although… Examine the legs of the bed carefully.

BATHROOM

There is a bathtub in the middle of the living room. Is it used for swimming? Or is it art? Actually, both. You can easily sleep in it if you are in the mood. However, if you require privacy during body cleansing, as is customary, behind a closed door there is a beautiful, design bathroom with a shower.

GALLERY (LIVING ROOM)

The living room is dominated by an oversized white sofa. It is here that you can sit comfortably and enjoy the benefits of living in a private gallery. On the other side of the room is a table with chairs. If you came here to work or create, you have the ideal conditions.

Here you are in an uplifting, artistic studio. You wouldn't want to peel potatoes here! The apartment of course has a kitchenette (fridge) with a refrigerator, but is not used for cooking. But you can definitely have breakfast and fragrant coffee here, sit at the dining table or on a giant sofa and let yourself be in the mood for an artistic morning.

You will find several dotted presents from me in the fridge for the evening sitting. Cheers!

There are a lot of restaurants of all kinds in Český Krumlov, so treat yourself to comfort and be served in one of the local establishments without work.

Welcome to Český Krumlov, a city of legends, beauties and frightened tourists.

Although the castle and chateau are the evergreen of all pocket guides, I just have to recommend them for a tour. It is beautiful. In addition, it is only 100 meters from our accommodation. The Baroque castle garden from the 17th century has more than 10 hectares, so you can break up with friends and meet in a few hours at the agreed place. For example, the unique revolving auditorium, which was created in the head of the architect and set designer of Latvian origin, Joan Brehms.

Since you chose the original art studio for your stay, it could be assumed that you enjoy art. I advise Art Nouveau lovers to see Seidl's studio from 1905 with a unique glass roof. There is a museum that copies the interior and equipment of the house from the early 20s of last century. Here you will learn something about the beginnings of photography and the life of the first photographers.

If you come with children, I recommend taking a beautiful walk "Hidden Stories". The route leads from the Seidel Photo Studio along the river, under the Cloak Bridge, to a lookout point called Paraplíčko. Continue around the castle garden to the Dubík forest, where you will find a playful nature trail. From Dubík, the route will take you to the picturesque Plešivecké Square, where it ends not far from the studio. Even with a curl and a break for ice cream, you can do it in 2.5 hours.

An adult group can follow in the footsteps of Egon Schiele, for example. This painter, graphic artist and provocateur spent a large part of his life in Český Krumlov. His mother Marie, née Soukupová, came from our town. His love of Art Nouveau and Expressionism made him a famous artist. On the other hand, due to his desire for women and an unrestrained life, he was eventually expelled from Krumlov. You can melt or offend his works in the Art Centrum gallery with a café. You can also see his house.

I recommend a stay more for families with older children. After all, we have stairs, plus the statues. Such a head impact on art quite hurts. But of course I'll leave it to your discretion.

Český Krumlov is full of stories and legends. If you want to motivate children to walk, legends about dwarves, Stone Brothers or a good witch are a great attraction.