Český Krumlov was often written up as one of the most beautiful towns in the world, so there was just no way I could pass up the chance to go without even trying. Luckily, my partner has no qualms about driving in other countries – or even just driving period – so after picking up our rental in Prague’s Central Station, and an extended stop at a nearby castle, we drove the 2 hours’ distance to the south of the country. From the few people I knew who’d been there, it was a town lifted from a fairy tale, and from the pictures I’d seen it seemed to be just the case. It was literally freezing when we got there and while I have seen my share of fanciful winter wonderlands, what I saw proved to be less charming. It came across as part Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, but also a bit eerily part Hugh Jackman’s Van Helsing. A bit sad really, but also quite promising. I may have to find myself back in those parts during the warmer months so I can find out what’s under the icy veneer…and hopefully hear some tales as old as time.