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A trip to the highest settlement overlooking the Alps
Bučina is an extinct settlement in Šumava, located at an altitude of 1162 metres. It used to be the highest settlement in Bohemia. Today, Bučina is a popular tourist destination thanks to its history, natural beauty and views of Šumava and the Alps.
History of Bučina
Bučina was founded in the second half of the 18th century as a timber settlement. In 1910 there were 37 houses and 347 inhabitants of mostly German nationality. After the Second World War the village was displaced and in 1956 it was completely destroyed. Today you will find the restored chapel of St. Michael from 1992 and the Alpská vyhlídka hotel, which was rebuilt from the former Pešl's chalet.
What to visit in Bučina?
1. Chapel of St. Michael
The chapel, restored in 1992, is a reminder of the original spiritual centre of the settlement. It is a place of peace and contemplation in the middle of the Sumava nature.
2. Replica of the Iron Curtain
A reminder of the time when Bučina was located in the forbidden border zone. The replica includes a watchtower, barbed wire and information boards about the history of the Iron Curtain.
3. Views of Šumava and the Alps
In good visibility you can see not only the Sumava peaks but also the distant Alps from Bučina. The views are one of the main attractions of this location.
4. Hotel Alpská Vyhlídka
Hotel Alpská vyhlídka is a stylish mountain hotel situated in the extinct village of Bučina near Kvilda, right on the border with Bavaria in the heart of the Šumava National Park. You can stop for refreshments.
Route from Horská Kvilda to Bučina
Start: Horská Kvilda
Destination.
Length of the route: approx. 12.6 km
Difficulty: medium
Time: 2-3 hours on foot or a few minutes by bus from Kvilda
The route leads through the beautiful Šumava landscape and is suitable for hikers and cyclists. In season, a bus runs from Kvilda to Bučina, which allows you to combine a hiking trip with public transport.
Practical information
Access: You can't drive to Bučina, but in the season there is a bus from Kvilda.
Refreshments: The Alpská Vyhlídka Hotel has a restaurant where you can relax and refresh yourself.
Conclusion
Bučina in Šumava is a place where history, natural beauty and tranquillity come together. Whether you are a lover of hiking, history or looking for a place to relax, Bučina will not disappoint you.
