Slip into your running shoes and soak up the vibe of a town that literally smells of brewing tradition! Žatec is the heart of Czech hop-growing, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the local half marathon is the perfect blend of sport and historic atmosphere 🍺. Runners take on the classic 21.097 km distance, but the organizers often prepare shorter alternative routes as well (e.g., relays or a run of about 10 km) 🏃. The course winds through the picturesque historic center, atmospheric streets, and along the Ohře River, offering a great atmosphere and enthusiastic cheering from locals.
Once you’ve checked in at the finish line and caught your well-earned breath, Žatec and its surroundings will offer you plenty of unique attractions:
For a walk: Be sure to visit the Temple of Hops and Beer (Chrám Chmele a Piva) – an amazing educational and entertainment complex where you can take an elevator up to a viewing tower with a multimedia show 🗼.
For the family: Go for a stroll around the beautiful historic main square (Náměstí Svobody), where many Hollywood and European films have been shot, and see the world’s smallest vineyard and hop garden located right next to the town hall 🍇.
For a day trip: In under 40 minutes you can reach the stunning Chyše Palace, which tempts not only with its beautiful architecture and park, but also with its own craft castle brewery 🏰.
After burning hundreds of calories on the course, the perfect reward will be a traditional Czech pork schnitzel (řízek) with potato salad, and to drink – as could it be otherwise – original local Žatecký Gus beer or other hop specialties poured straight from the tank 🍻
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