Vyssi Brod

Vyšší Brod is a small town in South Bohemia, Czech Republic, situated on the banks of the Vltava River, close to the Austrian border. It is best known for its Cistercian monastery, founded in 1259, which houses a historic library and a collection of sacred art, including works linked to the renowned Gothic Vyšší Brod Altarpiece. The town serves as a popular starting point for canoeing and rafting trips along the Vltava, a favourite summer activity in the region. The surrounding area, shaped by the wooded foothills of the Bohemian Forest (Šumava), also offers opportunities for hiking and cycling. The modest historic centre retains architecture typical of small towns in the region, with a scattering of old houses around the main square. Its proximity to Austria makes it a convenient base for cross-border day trips. The climate is continental, with mild summers and colder winters that lend themselves to winter activities in the nearby hills. Vyšší Brod remains a peaceful destination, valued for its unspoilt natural surroundings and religious heritage.