After a few days in the forest, I wanted a new view, but without any particular place to go, I just picked a direction and started moving. Through villages and towns, I came upon a small space on the edge of Žabakor, a nature reserve, where eagles and other rare birds have been seen (although I only saw cygnets and a mouse). There's a little spillover near the edge, which I suppose runs into a creek on the other side of the road. The sound of falling water always goes down well with me. It was a good night's sleep.

Check this lake.

As I was in a small viewing spot, I decided not to be greedy. In the morning, Byron and I enjoyed a walk nearby and then we scooted. A few more dead-ends and villages passed us by, and then we found Valečov. This was a place that needed a good look, so I forked the 50,- parking charge and donned the dad belt (Byron's bits and bobs in utility belt format).

We climbed the hill, and were met by this excellent robot face.

Then, up in the woodland, a pretty decent castle ruin and a bunch of houses carved out of the rock. I have no idea how old these apartments are, but I have it on good authority they've been around since at least 1960.

It comforts me to know that Rebel Rikki was here.

We walked through the woods, taking in as many minimalist condos as possible, and removing tick after tick from Byron's gingernut biscuit coat. On the way back, I noticed the medieval co-working space. They really had everything they needed, back then.

Open plan.

Free lunch.

I just liked this bit.

And this bit, too.

I got this one just for those who like the look of all the weird Czech names. Here's looking at you, Burtdad.

After a few hours, we came back down to make some lunch and sit in the afternoon sun. And that was Monday.