Laura Lane review 30 Aug 2012
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The whole experience was hugely rewarding and relaxing. The place is beautiful and the hosts are so warm and welcoming. As soon as I got home, I couldn't wait to tell all my friends to go!
Nick's cooking, as other reviewers have mentioned, was outstanding. We, and our two small children (aged three and one) were remarkably well fed. And I loved the fact that all the food was sourced as locally and ethically as possible (fresh organic milk and beef from round the corner, wild strawberries picked by Joe and Dasa in the nearby fields, artisan cheeses from the local markets... I could go on). Needless to say we put on weight, despite being extremely active. We explored locally on foot, walking and running, and fell in love with the scenery. In mid-July the wildflowers everywhere were stunning, and you can see birds of prey wheeling around above your head.
Our children had as much fun as we did, too. Our three year old boy was the same age as Joe, so they had a blast running around together and climbing trees. Both of our kids delighted in cooking sausages on sticks on a fire in the garden and having rides round the fields on Nick's battered tractor.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Fly to Brno rather than Prague - its much closer. The public transport is excellent. We travelled to Olomouc (stunning - go!) by train and enjoyed the journey as much as our time wandering around soaking up the atmosphere.
Try to get out into the forests and do some walking - Nick and Dasa can tell you where to start and lend you a map. We managed some pretty serious walks with our off-road buggy, and stopped at the mountain cafes ('Chata') for lunch. Given the belly busting breakfasts and dinners, we normally had soup for lunch. Always delicious and at a ridiculously low cost. In fact, the whole holiday was extremely good value, especially the evening meals and wine laid on Nick and Dasa.
Don't worry too much about planning an itinerary - wait until you get there and take Nick and Dasa's advice. We ended up at some brilliant places we wouldn't otherwise have known about. Watching ski jumpers practising their somersaults and landing in a swimming pool, whilst we drank coffee and watched our kids playing on a trampoline, for example. Or watching a mountain bike race in a forest and drinking beers at a cafe whilst the riders swung past - the race marshalls gave us a load of cake and watermelon. Wholly unplanned and very good fun.
The language (Czech) is impenetrable. I didn't think my accent was that appalling but nobody understood me when I asked for bread (and it should have been pretty obvious, given that this was normally when I was eating soup). So equip yourself with a good phrasebook and be prepared to point at what you want when your best attempts are met with baffled stares.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. (Apart from having to fly there). As an Environmental Specialist, this was an important consideration for me. It's heartening to see Dasa and Nick's efforts and I congratulate them for it.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
5 stars.
Pedro Moiteiro review 15 Aug 2012
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The traditional barbecue Nick and Dasha have prepared to us with Czech sausages coming from local farmers was really great. Being at the fireplace outside each one of us learning how to get the sausages at their best, is still one of the remarkable moments of our holidays, even for Manuel (our 7 year old son). The warm stay and the possibility to get familiar with local life from a so different customs and daily life, was remarkable.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
We would suggest people to try to get some time with Nick, Dasha and Joey. They are memorable hosts and great cookers. Their suggestions - from mountain trails to local pubs - and the great local food (what a delicious cheese Nick, you prepared for our goodbye) are not so easy to get on these touristic days.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely. Local products from nearby farmers were always part of the meals. Nick has a genuine interest on talking about biological and local products. And we had never tasted those products easily otherwise.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
5 stars for sure. Thank you guys!
David O Connell review 1 Feb 2012
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Nick is obviously a talented, thoughtful cook who catered for our particular needs with enthusiasm and flair; and I suspect you’ve never seen such an artistic bowl of porridge as Dasa can produce! The skiing was a highlight – downhill at the resorts and Nick’s impromptu cross-country skiing lesson which was good enough to set us off on a 8km cross-country track the next day. Marvellous!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Hire a car at the airport then get out and about as much as possible. Everything is worth seeing and the roads are good.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
The local ski resorts benefit from additional business and local farmers and producers certainly benefit from Nick’s culinary genius. Food miles are kept to a minimum and firewood from surrounding forests ensure the house is toasty.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
From the moment we arrived to a super welcome and very well appointed & interesting room, to the packing of our bags onto sledges when leaving - this holiday is certainly one that will remain firmly lodged in our memories. We’ll definitely be back in Czeck next year. We’d give the holiday 5 stars.
Sharon Roberts review 7 Jan 2012
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
A wholly memorable experience, hard to pick one aspect. Nick and Dasa's incredibly warm and generous hospitality comes to mind. We spent a very happy christmas with them - relaxing and celebrating with them, getting to know them, wonderful meals. I won't forget the guitar/clarinet, singing and dancing we all enjoyed on Christmas day. We travelled with our 2 year old daughter and it was a perfect destination. Nick and Dasa were wonderful with her and very considerate of her needs. She had great fun sledging alongside Joe, their son.
Visiting the christmas market in Oloumnec with Nick, Dasa and Joe, using public transport was great. Walking in the local hills and woods in the silent snow made a deep impression on me. The guest apartment was cosy, very comfy bed. I really enjoyed meeting Dasa's family and being greeted so warmly, sharing food with them.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Having a hire car with sat nav was great. Can't think of much else. The hosts are very willing to make suggestions of places to visit, provide maps, help you cross country ski etc.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
It was evident that the food had been sourced locally, from the village where possible. Nick and Dasa appear committed to being as self sufficient and as environmentally conscious as possible.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
A fabulous experience. I'm left with some great memories, gratitude and warmth for Nick, Dasa and Joe, and would wholeheartedly recommend this destination to others.
Maria Falgoust review 4 Jan 2012
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Singing and running through the snow on New Year's eve to a hilltop to watch the
fireworks from every direction! Champagne and good cheer all around. Nick taught
me how to ski. Dancing with the locals at the lodge after drinking grog and eating goulash and suckling pig. The suite is beautiful, comfortable and incredibly clean. Fabulous shower.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
It's worth going out of your way to spend time in a beautiful home with delicious food and good company. Ask for the goose pie! Be prepared to eat, relax and chat. They have a well stocked library.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes! Nick and Dasa get their food from local farmers and businesses. Their heating system is eco-friendly and they use green products such as locally made soaps and cleaners. Even the cheese, wine and cookies were locally made-in fact the cookies were baked by Dasa's mother!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
10 plus! Nick and Dasa have hearts of gold and are great conversationalists. I would recommend the accommodation to people of all ages.
Stuart Blows review 17 Jun 2012
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Meeting people, many who did not speak English but were helpful and kind. The morning we spent horse riding was especially memorable, Pavla and family made us very welcome.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
It is still eastern Europe and outside of the main cities it is very rural, unspoilt and sparsely populated. There is no need for dressy clothes. Local eateries, supermarkets, pubs etc are simple and offer limited choice but are extremely cheap by UK standards. Beer 66p a pint! The village of Pisarov is isolated, so a car is essential. We did use the train to Olomouc which was cheap and efficient. The walking was good with excellent maps and well marked trails (especially for cross country skiing). The mountain huts were open and were very hospitable. The accommodation was very comfortable, very clean and warm. Satisfying simple home cooked food, with plenty of wine included.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
On this holiday we knew that any money spent would go to the local economy.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It lived up to our expectations.
Christina Chen review 7 Nov 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The location was amazing. The lodge is located in a small town, and it was very nice to be away from the cities. Nick and Dasa are amazing hosts, and they made every moment memorable. They are wonderful chefs, and the food they prepared for us was beyond amazing (smoked chicken, home made noodles, strudel... to name a few). We thoroughly enjoyed the conversations we had with them too. Great stories!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Nick and Dasa are familiar with the area around the town, so asking them for suggestions may be helpful. Or, you can be spontaneous and ask them for suggestions after you arrive. Everything is close if you have a car.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, definitely! Nick and Dasa have an extremely eco-friendly home. They explained how they cleaned up the environment around the house, used all local materials when remodeling their home, and eat all locally sourced foods. During our visit we even met a local farmer, who grew organic beef. I was extremely impressed by how they lived, and how they tried to benefit the locals and minimize impacts on the environment for everything they did. I left their home inspired to be more environmentally conscious in how I live.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent! Thoroughly enjoyed every bit of the time I spent there!
Elizabeth Schofield review 18 May 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Difficult. Possibly chugging off down the road one evening on an impromptu tractor ride with our little boy; he was delighted! Or the lovely sunsets over the hills just outside the farmhouse as we sat down to dinner every night.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Get out and about and explore the local area on foot; the walking is really good. Nick and Dasa are really helpful in providing maps and ideas. If coming in the spring pack layers; the weather for us was mainly glorious but it could be surprisingly cold out of the sun/in the forest. We actually had proper snow one day (early May). Go to 'the pub in the forest' lovely walks and good food - really good soup when we went. For a rainy day there's a nice little pool with a whirlpool in Sumperk which we had to ourselves. Our 2 year old loved it. If you've got kids and you want to make the most of it you really need a car. You could maybe manage without if no kids. Get the steam train; can't remember the name of the place it goes from, Nick and Dasa took us with their toddler. Olomouc by train is a good day out. We particularly enjoyed the modern art gallery.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes in that Nick and Dasa clearly made every effort to provide for themselves and us in a responsible way e.g. sourcing local organic food, giving us what was fresh and available. We were encouraged to attend local events e.g. the village football match, and did so, rather than going too far afield.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent. The hospitality was great, with Nick and Dasa bending over backwards to help. The food and accommodation were brilliant. It's a comfy, cosy farmhouse with a distinct section to ourselves, including a big double room and a separate little room for our child (very important!). The main living area is really cosy and inviting and we were made very welcome there and used it loads. Food was excellent and in huge supply. Every evening was like going out to a nice cosy restaurant but much more relaxed and without actually having to go anywhere or worry about babysitting. It's hard to imagine another type of holiday where you would get this. Our hosts were very considerate of our and our child's needs e.g. making sure mealtimes were convenient. Our little boy liked sitting down every night to have his bedtime milk with Joe! It's a beautiful part of the world with lots to do and helpful hosts to advise.
Tiffany Sherlock review 25 Jan 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
My stay here was just wonderful, and the highlight of a month-long trip around Europe. The little self-contained farmstay 'cave' was the most peaceful, beautiful place to stay and work on my book. The farmhouse, village and all the local surroundings are sublime, and getting to spend time with Nick, Dasa and their little toddler was a highlight of the trip - they were fantastic company and I'd now consider them friends, too. Oh, and all their home-cooked, organic, locally sourced food is just unbelievably delicious, every meal just seemed better than the last!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bring a car if you want the independence to travel around, explore the local area and do activities, as it is very remote! There are buses if (like me) you come on public transport, so it is possible to get out and about - I did and I loved travelling with the locals. But be aware, the buses tend to leave early, and believe me, you'll be so relaxed you'll oversleep most mornings... :-)
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I definitely do - Nick and Dasa are passionate about sourcing their produce locally, supporting local businesses and having a minimal carbon footprint / impact on the environment. Their home is extremely eco-friendly, and they buy locally whenever they can. I was extremely impressed, and inspired, by their way
of life.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Wonderful! I'd recommend the place to everyone as a beautiful place to visit, in a stunning part of the Czech Republic, with a lovely couple who'll make you feel completely at home there. Nick and Dasa were fantastic company and we spent hours chatting and swapping tales (they have some amazing stories!) - but they also gave me complete space at the same time to do my own thing. And the food, in case I haven't sung its praises enough, was sublime!
Sarah and Mark Baker review 6 Nov 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The beautiful walks in the area which we more or less had to ourselves.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
A car is pretty essential and we found taking our Sat Nav was helpful. The advice at Smugglers Inn from Nick and Dasa was invaluable. This was a great holiday place to stay with a baby (our little daughter was 7 months).
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Staying at Smugglers Lodge was like being in a homestay and we ate and drank lots of delicious local produce. Nick and Dasa were very careful about their impact on the environment which made it easy for us!
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Nick, Dasa and Joe were incredibly helpful and friendly and couldn't do enough to help us. The rooms we had were beautiful - we loved the wood burning stove in the evening, the pretty decor and full bookshelf! The food was excellent and they were great at catering for our baby girl too. A great opportunity to see a bit of the lovely Czech countryside and not just do the predictable Prague trip. A great holiday.
Jeff Rubinoff review 3 Oct 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Excellent meals cooked by Nick, beautiful views from hiking trails, lovely pub in the middle of the woods.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Go into the woods! Also, bring a healthy appetite.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, we ate food grown by local farmers and didn't use too much stuff.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Brilliant.
Myra Ramos review 25 Aug 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It is hard to limit our comments to a single most memorable aspect, as there was so much that stood out for us.
The best part was meeting this very unusual family--Nick with his
English midlands background and Daša with her helpfulness and Czech savvy. We spent hours sharing stories and points of view, and felt very included in their family life.
The house was lovely - a 500-year-old building beautifully and
tastefully restored. We had free use of the family living room as well as the guest apartment. Great meals prepared by Nick and Daša from local food, plus snacks and extras at every turn. We were pampered!
The location in the exquisite Moravian countryside was perfect for day trip exploration, and our hosts provided excellent suggestions, maps and information. At the same time, they were very flexible when we just wanted to hang out and dig the peace and beauty.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Do some advance research on nearby sights to make the best use of your time. For instance, we discovered online that there would be an international folk music and dance festival in a neighboring village while we were there, and it was wonderful.
Rent and bring a car if you can. It will make it easy to explore the surrounding area on your own, which is a big part of the charm of travel.
Learn a few Czech words and phrases (please, thank you, good day, potatoes, whatever) and bring an English-Czech dictionary. Check out the local pub just down the road.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Our hosts' recommendations encouraged us to visit and support folks in nearby local communities. And the house has been restored with community participation, in an environmentally-sensitive way.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We came home with wonderful stories, and will definitely recommend this accommodation to our friends. (If we stop short of calling it "the best holiday we have ever been on" it is only because we have had many fabulous travels. But it's right up there.)
We are so glad we found this accommodation on responsibletravel.com!
Rachel Lester review 11 May 2011
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We loved lots of aspects of this holiday. In particular, however, was the excitement at seeing our accommodation. It was absolutely perfect. A corridor leading from the front porch to a beautiful room (spotlessly clean and tastefully furnished)with huge, comfortable bed (quality bedding and pillows), a living area and with adjoining room too, with lovely view of front of farm - and a bathroom with shower and basin separate toilet room.
It all felt spacious and luxurious. We were delighted at our choice. The woodburner and the generous pile of logs kept us warm and it was really easy to get the burner going. An intimate and fantastically spacious accommodation, well thought-out and obviously well looked after. I will also add that we had plenty of hot water and that our host (Dasa) offered to clean the room after a couple of days but we declined, feeling that we hadn't really messed it up too much. We were also give clean towels half way through the week. I'm focusing on the accommodation here, because I know that when I book a holiday, it is an important aspect. The photos do not do it justice.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Decide beforehand where you want to go. We were going for the lazy, do nothing more than walk and potter; but if you want to get more out of your stay then you perhaps need to do some research and hire a car. We chose not to because we didn't want the hassle; having said that, we had some lovely walks and saw a great deal of the local area. If you want to use the Internet from your room, you won't be able to. It only connects in the communal living area. We didn't realise this until we tried and didn't connect. My partner had to work whilst we were away and needed the Internet, but this meant that he had to work in the living room shared by our hosts. Having said that, he was left to get on and it was very quiet.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
We used the local pub for drinks and a couple of lunches. We were made to feel very welcome, I have to add. Nick told us that he trades the fruit from his orchard in return for other food items with local people. He also told us that he hires local people if he needs work doing. It was evident that Nick and Dasa are very aware of the impact that they make on the environment. They seem to make use of everything, with little wastage. Meals were carefully planned. As far as possible, everything was organic and locally sourced. Nick and Dasa bottle a lot of their fruit in the Summer and this was used in a variety of dishes that we ate. Bearing in mind that we were not on holiday during the growing season, we did not get to see the produce that they must have in their garden during that time. They were gardening whilst we were there and planning their vegetable plot for the year, however.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I would rate this holiday as very good. If you want something a bit different, then this is it. If you want lovely, home-cooked food then you will enjoy this too. Nick is an imaginative cook and he really does care about what he produces. He will ask you what you want and tell you what is available and work from there. I really liked seeing what he could conjure up and was never anything less than delighted. We had delicious duck with dumplings and roast beef with homemade tagiatelle that Dasa's Mum had made, smoked chicken with rice and lovely puddings made by Dasa and sometimes Nick. Dasa made the most amazing pancakes with bananas for breakfast and Nick made wonderful bacon and eggs. Nick called us 'foodies' and maybe we are, but we loved the simplicity and care that went into his cooking. He clearly cares about what he produces and that is so evident.
I will add that Dasa is the perfect hostess. She is friendly and easy-going and is so good natured. I was a bit embarrassed that I had scorched my bath towel on the woodburner on the last evening. Dasa made me feel like it was no big deal as she took away the offending item, replacing it with not one but two fresh towels. I wasn't charged anything for it either; although I would recommend that you don't place anything on the woodburner to dry! She also prepared lovely lunches for us, of Nick's homemade vegetables soups and bread. Thank you to both Nick and Dasa for letting us spend time in their beautiful home and looking after us so well.
Rachel and Andrew
Jacquelyn Tierney review 7 Nov 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The experience of meeting and staying with a local family who was able to share their knowledge of and love for their country.
2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this holiday?
If you are driving to the farm from Prague, take a route through small towns and absorb the countryside.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. Much of our food was sourced from local farmers. Nick and Dasa also have a compost or recycling bin for everything! I don't remember anything going to waste.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
5 stars! Nick and Dasa welcomed my partner and I into their home as if we were family - I cannot express this enough. And their son Joe is such a sweet and glowing child. All of our questions about the Czech Republic and Pisarov were answered, and then some! Nick and Dasa are extremely well traveled and I thoroughly enjoyed our long late night conversations about our experiences with people and landscapes around the globe. Nick is also a wonderful cook who always made sure the wine was flowing and our bellies were full. Despite our short stay and the cold rainy weather, our experience on the farm was great and I look forward to returning one day - hopefully in the summer, when their very large garden is in full bloom!
Linda Scott review 7 Oct 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
So much to choose from but we have to say the food, for example delicious duck pie followed by cake with lavender sauce prepared by our hosts and accompanied by traditionally chilled Czech beer.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Book now! Think about dieting after the holiday and enjoy the wonderful food. We did trips to Oloumouc and the paper mill at Velke Loisny but we also really enjoyed staying at the lodge and walks around Pisarov. We drove to Czech Rep from the UK stopping for a night in Germany and the car was useful for getting around as you will need it to get to points of interest. Nick was helpful in getting train times (& necessary Czech phrases) so when we went to Oloumouc we drove the shortest distance to Zabreh and then caught the train to Oloumouc. We brought our 8.5 month old baby boy and Nick and Dasa could not be more helpful providing additional meals for him, adjusting to what he liked and could manage.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Nick and Dasa sourced food from local farmers, neighbours and businesses providing them with additional income. They reused and recycled as far as possible and used eco-friendly washing products. They also repaired broken items rather than searching out new ones and have an eco-friendly efficient heating system. We really felt that they cared about their environment and were genuinely building a sustainable business.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent, we have not been so relaxed since before our baby was born. We would not hesitate in recommending a holiday with them.
Francesca Jarvis review 13 Sep 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The most memorable part of our trip was most likely the scenery we loved the mountains and woodlands. The next was the food as Nick is no doubt an excellent chef and Dasha a specialist with deserts. Then the rafting but there were so many - I'm not gonna bore you...
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Obviously if you want to drive its easier to get around at your leisure, but you don’t have to I drive but chose not too as hours driving is not my idea of fun. So if you are willing to plan something, get up early and learn a little cheski! Then you can live without it, plus you can get see all of the beautiful views... or fall asleep as I often did!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yeah Dasha and Nick have made a real effort to make the house low impact and buy locally, whatever they can source locally they do... fresh duck... beef ribs... and veg... for the veggies. They have built up links with the community and even though the house is eco is beautifully kept and a home from home.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I would rate this as one of the best holidays I have been on. In truth I was a bit nervous about responsible travel but I have got more from this holiday than with the same money in a package holiday and it was eco. I had an eco wedding and it was a perfect honeymoon to match. If Dash and Nick are an example then I would recommend everyone to use responsible travel. Why settle for less for your money, make a more environmentally friendly choice... guilt free.
Tony Cunningham review 15 May 2010
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The house, the room, the food, the wealth of local knowledge, the food, (I know I’ve mentioned it twice) the log stove fires, even Joe in his West Brom kit, all of them were brilliant and that's before we actually got out of the house!
We also had some great trips to Olomouc, horse riding and around. The problem is that just like in all great places there just isn't enough time for everything. A day spent wandering around the local villages and hillsides would have been great as well.
The help and information offered by both Nick and Dasha was brilliant. If the queries were on touristy things then they were better than any local tourist agency and offered to help with booking loads of things for us. They were also great on local information. Knowing everything you would want to know about life in a small Czech village and Czech in general. I think it really helped with Dasha being Czech and Nick being British but a long term resident. It meant he was able to offer those bits of information that maybe a local doesn't even notice and between them you got a great understanding of Czech life.
Obviously the food is a big part of a stay there (see other reviews). Great care and effort is put in to produce really good and filling meals and the food is sourced as locally as possible and as organically as possible. By the end of our 4 days we were having to request smaller portions we were so full. My girlfriend is a vegetarian while I am not but they still insisted on preparing meat and non meat options for us.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Book it now!
The house was in a fantastic location about 3 hrs drive east of Prague and while you can plan loads of things in advance Nick and Dasha will offer loads of useful advice for things to fill your day with.
We hired a car in Prague and found it very useful to get around a bit more but if all you want to do is chill and relax for a few days in lovely rolling hills then a car isn’t a must and bikes are available to hire nearby (we didn’t have time to do that but they would have helped with the booking of them).
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes definitely. As mentioned above they try to buy as much of their produce locally and organically when possible and fantastic food it is as well. They also try to minimise the impact that their farmhouse has on the environment with the heating being by log stoves and having a fancy sewage system that cleans the waste.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Five out of five
Sven Schroeder review 5 Aug 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Too many too mention... The old farm house, how relaxed and quiet it is, being with Nick and Daša and Joe, living in 'the cave'... The kids (7, 4, 1 years old) loved picking wild strawberries, playing with Joe, getting flowers from the meadows and finding all kinds of beasts - the anthill, the butterflies and moths, the beetles, the tame sheep and the dead snake on the last evening. It was all very uncomplicated yet stimulating. Hey - we could read a whole book in day while the kids were busy playing in the garden. Oh - and not to forget that Nick and Daša provide wonderful dinners and will chat with you afterwards while the wine and the beer flows.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Get a rental car or you will be limited for excursions (which can be fine if you just want to hang around and relax). If you stay for less than two weeks, there are more things to do within a 50 mile radius than you can ever get done. We were looking for a relaxing time, to get away from it all - and we probably benefited from arriving with an open mind and not too many fixed plans. We adjusted our plans every morning according to the weather. Lose some weight before you go - Nick and Daša will spoil you with a big meal every evening, including gorgeous desserts.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes; produce was clearly sourced locally, waste was minimised, we kept electricity and water use to a minimum and we went to the local pub. Nick and Daša encourage local exploration.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was terrific - many happy memories, just what we needed. It definitely ranges among the best family holidays we have had. Highly recommended.
Susan Getman review 8 May 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
My two young adult children and I still are talking about our visit with Nick, Dasa and little Joe! NIck and Dasa were so welcoming and helped us make activity arrangements for biking and horse back riding during our visit. Each could have been the "most" memorable. We took a long bike trip over the country side, over hill and vale. Touring through villages and farm land, past old cemeteries, WW II bunkers and ancient churches made for a fabulous day! We would have missed the sights, sounds and sweet smells of spring had we zipped through this area in our rented Peugeot! Although we didn't speak Czech and the shop keeper spoke no English, the fact that Nick had already contacted her made this easy (with a little help from our handy travel dictionary).
Our horseback riding adventure was also arranged through Nick and Dasa (we never would have found this opportunity on our own!) We found ourselves on the backs of beautiful horses, guided by a delightful woman through forests and meadows overlooking villages below in the valley. Again, all arrangements were made in advance by Dasa so that we were expected when we arrived! Our guide’s young teenage son was thrilled to practice his English and served as an able and enthusiastic translator. Invited after our ride to stay for coffee, we sat on the porch outside the barn, and worked our way through a long "visit" with our guide and her family...young translator, dictionary and many hand motions helped us cover many topics!
An unexpected delight was the time that we spent with NIck, Dasa and little Joe. We lingered over Nick's gourmet breakfasts and dinners talking long after the meal was over (and thoroughly enjoyed... Nick is such an outstanding chef that we decided to have all our breakfast and dinners at their home!) We met his local friends (who treated us to a French horn concert in their verdant yard overlooking a stunningly beautiful valley), raised some pints together at the village pub over the hill and hung out with the goat and cat while talking about seemingly endless topics of interest to us all.
Nick and Dasa have created an extraordinary living space for their traveling guests. Cozy and yet ample space was decorated in the most inviting and pleasing ways and the wood stove was always glowing with cheery, warm light! Hanging out in the kitchen while Nick and Dasa prepared meals or afternoon (or evening) tea was our favorite place to visit... it spoke of all things good for you...the smells and sight of wonderful food being carefully prepared, refreshing water (and mustn't forget the great coffees and teas!) and best of all, easy camaraderie.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Book more days with Nick and Dasa than you had planned on! Once you have done that, make sure that you have a good travel dictionary and map so that you feel comfortable exploring the villages and towns in the area. Don't be shy, there is much to enjoy!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Nick and Dasa have made dozens of living accommodations that honor the natural world of their village of Pisarov and minimize the impact of their farm and living on the environment. Nick and Dasa are clearly an important part of their local community with Nick teaching English to a wide variety of local folk interested in improving their language skills for work, school and living more fully as citizens of the world. They are clearly looked upon as well respected "leaders" in their village. We enjoyed learning about the multitude of ways that they have renovated this smuggler's cottage of old, making eco-friendly changes so to leave a very small footprint on the hill overlooking acres of bright yellow flowering fields.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I would give it 10 stars! "I am reborn!" This was simply the best holiday I have ever been on! Truly, it has changed the way I will travel for ever more!
Lisa Baum review 18 Apr 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
All of it! Excellent accommodation, food and company! It felt like we were staying with old friends! Nick and Dasa went out of their way to help us out and make sure we had everything we needed. It was so nice to be away from the hustle and bustle of Prague to discover the local sites without any other tourists!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Hire a car so you can get around and visit places off the beaten track. Go horseriding, visit Olomouc and the local spas. There is lots to do!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes, all food locally and organically sourced whenever possible. All waste recycled.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Great! Most definitely recommend it!
Lesley Mountain review 13 Sep 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Loved travelling to the Czech Republic by public transport - bus/boat/ train. The public transport in the Czech republic is also great - cheap and coordinated. Nick and Dasa organised for us to hire a car locally and came to the station to meet us and translate with the guy. The car was fine and we were happier for our money to go locally. You don't strictly need a car due to good public transport but it meant we could get to some different places.
Nick and Dasa also made several suggestions for walks and outings in the area - all of which were good and saved a lot of hunting around trying to find out what was going on. There were plenty of maps and tourist guides at the Lodge. We had some great walks in the quiet countryside, culminating in climbing the highest mountain in the area (not difficult but takes time) and gazing down into Poland. We ate Dasa's courgette and chocolate cake on the top! Nick is a fantastic cook - best food we've ever had, and managed to produce lovely vegetarian, low-cholesterol dishes every night - quite a feat. Lots of the food was produced locally and organic wherever possible. Enjoyed our discussions about green issues and Nick's anecdotes from his punk and Africa days. Little boy Joe is a real charmer and a delight to have around.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Lose weight before you go because you won't while you're there. Don't bother to take too many books as they have a great selection of reading matter. You may not need a car depending where you want to go. Try travelling there without flying - we went from Newcastle to Amsterdam by boat then on the sleeper to Prague. A lovely journey. There are other routes - Google "man in seat61" for info. Learn a little bit of Czech if you can as not many people speak any English. (German is also used by some people).
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
As far as possible. The heating is from renewable wood, the waste water recycling is excellent and there is a thorough recycling system. Produce was obtained locally mostly and we hired the car locally, thanks to Nick's contacts. Unfortunately due to a number of circumstances Dasa and Nick have not been able to cultivate their full veggie garden this year (but they do have Joe as compensation!) so only a few things were home-grown. We were disappointed about this as we are keen home gardeners but all the veg was fresh and either local or organic.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Very good - some lovely walks and just interesting to be in such a different place. Good to meet different people - we're usually fairly self-contained on holiday so it did us good to be in a more sociable environment.
Tim Hennessy review 10 Aug 2009
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Nick and Dasa are very personable, making us feel very welcome without being overbearing.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Take bikes.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
I hope so.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
It was a great long weekend from Prague and we would go again.
Nadine Payne review 27 Feb 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
It is difficult to know where to start. Our holiday with Nick and Dasa was fantastic - they are the most helpful and warm people I have ever met. It is very rare to meet people like them. Nick and Dasa are fantastic hosts and made us feel completely at home. They are fantastic cooks - we have never eaten so well. My daughter loved helping look after the chickens with Nick and going on long walks with Dasa - she is still talking about them both! It’s a great place for families. The cottage is beautiful and accommodation excellent. My husband has also learnt the important life skill of lighting fires (and keeping them alight!)
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Hiring a car is probably a good idea, especially if you’re travelling with children. There are lots of things to do nearby, so it makes getting about that much easier. Nic and Dasa helped us book all our activities in advance so we could get the most out of our weeks stay, so just give Nic a few ideas of your interests. Nick and Dasa are great cooks - be sure not to miss out.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely. The food is either grown by themselves or is locally sourced and is organic. Nick and Dasa are very passionate about the food and knowing were it has come from. They use all eco friendly cleaning product and they have their own water treatment plant for waste water.
Jason Parker review 4 Feb 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
There were many memorable parts of our holiday at this accommodation. We could begin with the fabulous food that they prepare, including the breakfasts and suppers featuring locally grown or raised foods (from their garden or another local family producer) and their willingness to indulge and elaborate on our "academic inquiry" into the local history and family networks. We would be remiss if we didn't mention their warm hospitality and fondness for great conversation. Nic and Dasa arranged for skiing equipment and provided personalized lessons with patience and humour. Beginning from "how do I put these things on" to "wow, that's a steep hill... how do I avoid a real faceplant?"
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Travelling the Czech Republic in winter, especially outside of Praha, can be challenging as websites do not always explain seasonal hours and other restrictions (such as how many people are required for a tour). Yet, Nic and Dasa were persistent in ensuring our stay was comfortable and memorable. They suggested an itinerary that matched our interests and even toted us around and translated for us at multiple points of interest.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Yes. Everything we discussed with Nic and Dasa or read on their web site matched what we observed during our stay. Their history of working with local communities and commitment to the "local economy" and people, of which they see themselves a part, and the environment was integrated into everything we saw. They have worked to mobilize the local community to organize around water quality and stream habitat as well as forest restoration. They even use environmentally sustainable bathing and cleaning products (and provide them for guests).
Alicia Davies review 1 Dec 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
This question is not really suitable for the weekend short break we had at Pisarov. All I can say is that it was truly excellent. The accommodation was fantastic, with so many, many thoughtful touches to make sure the guests are treated and looked after from arrival to departure. The hosts Dasa and Nick, (and baby Joe and "the sheep"), are fantastic company; the setting and location of the lodge is stunning and we cannot wait to go back again.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't eat for 24 hours before going there! The food is out of this world and lot and lots of it!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely, Nick and Dasa have not only created a sustainable building but way of life also. With home grown produce, local delicacies and swapping various commodities/items with the neighbouring locals.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Beyond expectations in every aspect. Definitely first class. On the scoring system you have used and the descriptions of the star ratings I have to record a 4 star as a weekend cannot be "the best holiday I have ever been on". But without any fear of misleading others, this was a 5 star weekend.
Nigel Quinton review 21 Nov 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The Food!!! Nick and Dasa are the most wonderful hosts.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Don't plan too many activities - aim to relax!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
In as much that the food is locally sourced and recycling in the village is incredibly high, then yes. However, there is little that Nick and Dasa can do beyond this. They have plenty of information about local activities and do a great job of putting visitors in touch with local providers - for example we went on a horse riding trip where we had no common language but Dasa made all the arrangements for us and we had a great time.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Excellent - we will be going back there again I am sure.
Cheryl Spain review 15 Sep 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The best part of our holiday in the Czech Republic was staying in Nick and Dasha's lovely farmhouse in the middle of the countryside. They were amazing hosts, cooked lovely food, were very welcoming and sent us off every day with tips and advice on where to go. Their cooking was especially good and they had no problem rustling up lovely vegetarian dishes for us, which made life a lot easier than in most Czech restaurants. They even invited us out to a local ice hockey game and for a beer in the local pub!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
You need to hire a car to make the most of the area. It takes a good 3.5 hours to get from the airport in Prague to their farmhouse (longer if the road is shut as it was for us !!). If you visit in summer the lake is great for a swim. Oloumouc is a pretty city (like Prague without the tourists as all the guide books tell you). If you are combining the trip with a visit to Prague we'd recommend only a day or two there before the tourist hordes become too much!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Nick and Dasha cooked local food from their veggie patch and fruit orchard, if they didn’t have stuff it was purchased from the village or surroundings. The property had its own water supply, environmentally friendly waste water treatment, eco products in the room and the renovation sounds as though it was very environmentally sensitive.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Fantastic - it was more like staying with friends in another country rather than an anonymous hotel or lodge. They are incredibly welcoming hosts- thanks for a lovely holiday.
Swati Bengali review 20 Aug 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Tranquillity and quiet. Beautiful undulating meadows as far as the eye can see. A lovely place to stay, with a fireplace to keep you warm. Nick and Dasa are wonderful hosts, non intrusive yet very helpful and enthusiastic. And sweetly thoughtful to slip in a piece of strudel for our journey back to Prague. Through our hosts we made friends with a few Czechs and were touched by their simplicity, warmth and openness. Were completely taken aback and pleasantly surprised when one of them took time off work and came to the station to say goodbye.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Nick is quite a cook and makes the most delightful desserts. Do take his suggestions on what you can do around Pisarov and the places you can visit. Expect a relaxed holiday, great for long walks, a drink or two at the local pub. Very charming. Nick is enterprising and will help you with local travel arrangements.
Lisa Fallon review 15 Jul 2008
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
We were very pleasantly surprised by the number of beautiful towns and cities in the local area, but our two boys probably enjoyed tobogganing and karting best!
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
1) Probably hire a car as the cottage is a bit off the beaten track. 2) Take advantage of Nick & Dasa's very kind willingness to look into local events and helping with bookings /planning itineraries. Nothing seems to be too much trouble for them and using their local knowledge greatly enhanced our holiday experience! 3) Make sure your car hire from Prague airport is available after 8pm, we arrived at the office at 8.10pm (flight delayed 25 mins) to find Sixt office had simply closed and gone home -no way we could pick up our car until the next day.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We had a wonderful time, it was a very relaxing environment and safe for 2 small children (age 2 &4). Nick's cooking was great and the room very comfortably and tastefully furnished. Nick and Dasa very kindly babysat for us one evening so we could go out - and even cooked for us despite feeling very ill when we had to return unexpectedly early - our restaurant being completely inaccessible due to a raging storm and trees falling on the roads - very much above and beyond the call of duty! We had a chance to rest and re-charge and felt thoroughly looked after - thank you!
Dunstan Keene review 18 Nov 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Nick and Dasa were wonderful hosts. Nick is a fantastic cook and will recommend what he has or can get locally and then create a superb meal. I live outside the UK so opted for the full English breakfast and Sunday roast, both superb. The cottage is in a very peaceful and pleasant location. Nick and Dasa organised horseriding for us, about a 20 minute drive from the cottage, very friendly and relaxed. The standard of accommodation is excellent, newly renovated and thoughtfully furnished with lots of personal touches.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
I would recommend hiring a car to get the most out of the area. Ask Nick and Dasa for recommendations of activities, they know the area very well.
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Nick and Dasa source whatever they can either from their own garden or from local suppliers. They are really putting back into the local community. The renovation of the property has taken into consideration the impact to the environment.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
An excellent holiday. It is a perfect holiday place for couples, with on one hand great company from Nick and Dasa and on the other hand great privacy when you want it. We have already booked to go back.
Sarah Rogers review 30 Sep 2007
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
As busy parents the best part of our holiday was being given the chance to relax in a friendly, laid back atmosphere and not feel as if we had to go on outings every day.
2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
The village is quite remote so car hire is essential if you have children and want to explore. However there is a good bus service 5 mins away in the village. Take Nick up on his offer to cook in the evenings he is a fab chef and we ate amazing meals every night!
3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, and minimized impacts on the environment?
Absolutely. Our hosts recycled or reused 99% of their waste & bought or bartered with their neighbours and shopped in the local village.
4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
We loved it, our hosts were relaxed & fun to be with, they came with us on days out & showed us sites we would not have found on our own. Our little boy loved spending time with them feeding the chickens & picking mushrooms and they looked after him a couple of times so my husband and I were able to go to local towns without dragging a bored three year old along. We will be going back!
