Stork Stalking
Ok, I need to fill in a little backstory here. I have a Czech friend from Hranice, who’s ears I have tortured for a few years now in my feeble attempt to learn the Czech language. She told me stories of the town where she grew up, Hranice. One of the stories she told me about Hranice was about the storks that she could see from her home in the spring, as a child. Shortly before this trip, she shared a newspaper article from Hranice about the storks, which had returned another year. I told my wife about the storks, and she said we had to make the trip to Hranice.
A key thing to remember about visiting smaller towns, is that there is not a lot of English spoken, almost all Czech. Funny story, we were looking for a ticket machine for the bus tickets back to the train station. Not seeing anything remotely resembling a transit ticket machine, I asked a woman sitting on a bench, “Dobry den. Kde je automat na listek do autobusm prosim?” or “Hello, Where is the bus ticket machine please”. She looked at me a little funny, so I asked again, and she responded “ne chesky” basically “I dont speak czech”. That threw me for a loop, so I asked “Anglicky?” “English?”, and she was “Ano a “Ukrajinský.” “Yes and Ukrainian” I was like “Jak?” “How” she explained in english that she was a refugee. Then she told us that the buses were 8 KR (25 cents) and you pay the driver. My wife and she chatted for about 5 minutes before the bus came, we thanked her and headed on to the bus to the train.
The trip to Hranice from Olomouc is not that straightforward, they are not that far apart, but about an hour and one stop by train. There are buses from the train station into town because, for some reason, the train station is about a mile or so from the main square. We took the option to walk and enjoy the neighborhoods. You really get the feel for a town, when you take a walk though the suburbs.
Unfortunately, I am stubborn, and I decided that I was only going to bring fixed length lenses on this trip. I had a 23 mm lens, and I thought I grabbed the 85 mm lens when we left in the morning, but nope, I forgot it! I have some tools to upscale, I am going to give those a try and hopefully replace the images above.
The Heart of Hranice
We left the storks and strolled through the charming streets of Hranice, and made our way to the main square. This vibrant space is the beating heart of the town, where locals and visitors come together to enjoy the rich history, culture, and delightful atmosphere that Hranice has to offer.
With its picturesque setting and historical significance, the main square of Hranice is a must-visit destination. Let’s dive into its captivating charm and uncover the hidden gems that await you there.
Immersed in History
The main square of Hranice is steeped in history, dating back centuries. As you wander through the cobblestone streets and passages, you feel transported to a bygone era. The architecture of the surrounding buildings reflects a mix of different styles, from Gothic to Renaissance, showcasing the evolution of the town throughout the ages.
One of the main highlights of the square is the impressive Town Hall, standing proudly at its center. This architectural gem is a true symbol of Hranice and serves as a testament to the town’s rich heritage. Take a moment to admire its intricate details and imagine the stories it could tell.
A Cultural Haven
Aside from its historical significance, the main square is a cultural haven, offering a myriad of experiences for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The square is dotted with quaint art galleries, showcasing the works of local artists.
For those seeking a taste of local cuisine, the main square is also home to charming cafés and restaurants that serve up traditional Czech dishes with a modern twist. From hearty goulash to crispy schnitzel, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Sip on a cup of aromatic coffee brewed from locally roasted beans, or indulge in a glass of fine Czech wine, perfectly paired with your meal.
The scent of freshly baked pastries fills the air, drawing you to the quaint bakeries that offer a delightful array of treats – from flaky strudels to creamy-filled doughnuts. Take a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, admiring the historic architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings.
So, whether you’re a food lover eager to explore the flavors of the region or simply looking for a picturesque spot to relax and unwind, the main square offers a truly captivating destination that will leave a lasting impression on your senses and your memories.
A Vibrant Atmosphere
Step into the main square of Hranice, and you’ll be greeted by a vibrant atmosphere that is sure to captivate your senses. The square comes alive with street performers, musicians, and artists, creating a delightful ambiance that adds to its charm.
During the summer months, the main square plays host to lively festivals and events that draw crowds from near and far. From music concerts to art exhibitions, there’s always something exciting happening in this dynamic space.
Mid-April is not the season for festivals and events or concerts, but we really enjoyed the quaint town, and are delighted we went out of our way to see the famous storks of Hranice. If you are in the Olomouc area, or anywhere really, take the time and explore this or any small town.
Dining
No visit to Hranice would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. The town is known for its traditional Czech dishes, which are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Head to one of the quaint local restaurants and sample hearty favorites such as goulash, and svíčková.
Don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of delicious Czech beer or try some of the local Moravian wines. The combination of delicious food and drinks, paired with the cozy and welcoming atmosphere, will make your dining experience in Hranice unforgettable.
We stopped for lunch at Restaurace U Kramplů on Pernštejnské nám. 109, Město, 75301 Přerov-Hranice, Czechia, the food was good, and the service was great considering the language barrier.
I mentioned the restaurant, to my Czech friend and she knew the place and had enjoyed eating there.
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