Kunratice Forest a Breath of Fresh Air
The large and lush Kunratice Forest is located in the Modřany district south of Prague centre close to Chodov. The forest is easily accessible from the Roztyly metro station (line C) and is perfect for walking and sports activities. The forest is densely covered with trees and you should not be surprised to see a deer cross your path. The forest is also a home for pheasants, woodpeckers, hares and a herd of mouflons. The animals roam freely. Swans swim in the pond and ducks in the Kunratický stream.
Kunratice Forest, far away from the crowds
If you want to walk, run or cycle in the fresh air, Kunratice Forest is your perfect destination. A network of marked hiking and cycling trails crisscrosses the forest. There are centuries-old trees everywhere, some of which are protected national trees. The Kunratický potok (stream) forms the border on the western side. There is also a mini zoo, a playground, rest areas with shelter from the rain, many benches and two picnic areas with facilities for a BBQ.
The tall trees, the winding stream and the viewpoints feel very rural and you would almost forget that you are still in Prague.
The forest dates back to the 14th century. King Wenceslas IV had a small castle built here, Nový Hrádek, which he often visited and where he breathed his last. Only a ruin of the castle remains.
Suggestion for a walk
Start at the restaurant U Krále Václava IV, where there is a mini zoo with deer. Walk along the Kunratický stream, and follow the yellow signs to Na ty Louce Zeleny. This is a snug restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating.
Authentic Czech Food
If you want a bite to eat, you will find several simple restaurants in Kunratice forest; with seating inside and outside. They offer traditional Czech specialties and of course cold beer.
Restaurace Na ty Louce Zeleny, Zelena Louka 1, open 11.00-23.00
Specialties from the Czech cuisine and very affordable prices
Restaurace Krala Vaclava IV, Vaclava IV 406, open 11.30-22.00
Classic Czech dishes such as paprika sausages with mustard and bread, grilled hermelin (a kind of camembert), chicken wings with BBQ sauce and also burgers
Rangoli, Kunraticka spojka 1, open 11.00-22.00
With Indian specialties and highly recommended if you want to eat something different from Czech cuisine. Rangoli has both vegetarian and non-veg dishes. Tandoori chicken peri peri and Punjabi channa masala are recommended. The ultimate dessert is saffron thandi badami kheer a combination of rice, milk, sugar, saffron and roasted almonds.
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photos: Wiki Commons