Welcome to my FIRST TRIP! ✨🔝 Embark on an extraordinary journey as we explore the sites of Operation Cowboy, a daring mission that unfolded during the final days of World War II. This unique trip will take us deep into the heart of the Chodsko Region and Upper Palatine Forest, Czech Republic, where we'll uncover the remarkable story of the rescue of rare horses, including the majestic Viennese Lipizzaners. 🐎 👉 What Can You Expect? - Exploration of lesser-known historical sites: You'll have the opportunity to visit off-the-beaten-path historical places with a passionate guide. - Immersion in nature: The trip will offer plenty of opportunities to spend quality time in nature. - Delicious Czech cuisine: Get ready to indulge in the flavors of Czech food, savoring traditional dishes that are an integral part of the country's culture. And of course, there's the renowned Czech beer to enjoy! - Disconnect from everyday life: This journey will be a chance to escape the routine of daily life, immerse ourselves in history and nature, and take a break from the stresses of the modern world. 👉 How Will We Get Around? By car or train. We will also incorporate hiking. 👉 What Kind of TripMates Am I Looking For? - Individuals interested in WW2 history - People who enjoy visiting and discovering historical sites - Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts - Dog-friendly companions who appreciate animals - Those who prefer local experiences over luxurious stays - Collaborative and respectful individuals who value group dynamics - Budget-conscious travelers who are comfortable with simple accommodations 🤠 Historical Background: Operation Cowboy was an audacious undertaking by the U.S. Army, which chose to undertake a perilous mission to save hundreds of invaluable horses from stables near Hostouň, Czechoslovakia. This operation hinged on an unlikely alliance between American soldiers and German breeders, who joined forces to protect these magnificent creatures from the clutches of fanatical SS troops and the advancing Red Army… 💪 Let’s explore it together!
About me! I’m Emi. 👋 I was born and raised in Poland, and at 32 years old, I've built my life around my two greatest passions: history and traveling. History, especially World War II, truly captivates me. So, it's no surprise that my trips often revolve around historical sites and landmarks. ⏳ Check out my profile for more information! When planning this trip, I wanted to combine interesting historical sites, relaxation in nature and good local food. How did I manage? Well, see for yourself. 🙃 The tour is dog-friendly, so you are more than welcome to bring your pet! 🐕
🛏 Where Will We Stay? We’re staying in Hotel GAME *** near the town of Klenčí pod Čerchovem (or similar), only 10 km from the German border. Accommodation is available in shared rooms. Private rooms are available for an additional fee. The hotel also charges a small fee for a dog. Breakfasts are included in the price.
What's included?
Transportation between stops (Car/Train)
Accommodation (double rooms, 2 nights)
Breakfasts
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🌍 Czechia based • ✈ avid traveler • ⏳WWII history enthusiast • 🪖 living historian/reenactor • 🐕 dog mum • 📱 marketing specialist
5 based on 2 reviews
Petr
5/5
A very well organized trip full of adventure in the footsteps of the liberation of Czechoslovakia by the American army. Emi is a great guide. I recommend!
Day 1: Domažlice | Újezd (Lt. Virgil P. Kirkham) Our journey through the traces of liberation begins in Domažlice, a town that has hardly changed since the war. We will compare the town's current appearance with wartime photos and visit two memorials dedicated to the U.S. Army. In 1945, the people of Domažlice greeted their liberators with traditional pies from this region, which we will also try. Our next stop is the village of Újezd. On the wall of the local office, there is a memorial plaque dedicated to our hero of the day – Lt. Virgil P. Kirkham. Lt. Virgil P. Kirkham was the last recorded USAAF pilot killed in Europe during World War II. After lunch, we will go to the site where Kirkham's P-47 Thunderbolt plane was shot down. It can be reached by following a short nature trail through the forest. We will then proceed to our hotel in the town of Klenčí pod Čerchovem and check-in.
2
Díly
Day 2-3
After breakfast, we will set out on the trail to Díly. Our first stop will be the 90th Infantry Division monument located at the chapel. Next up is memorial dedicated to the 5 U.S. Army soldiers killed when their jeep drove into a trap and was destroyed. The tragic incident occurred on May 1, 1945. We will continue our walk along the trail until we reach the viewpoint at the monument to the writer Jindřich Šimon Baar. The breathtaking view of the countryside was one of the first things American soldiers saw after crossing the Czechoslovakian border. We will then descend to the town of Klenčí pod Čerchovem, where we will take a look at one more memorial plaque and grab a bite to eat. We will then return to the hotel. Note: The hiking route on this day will be about 18 km. Breaks are scheduled along the way.
3
Bělá nad Radbuzou
Day 3
Day 3: Bělá nad Radbuzou | Hostouň After breakfast we will drive to the town of Bělá nad Radbuzou. Right away in the main square the first monument dedicated to the U.S. Army awaits us. The names of Pfc. Raymond E. Manz and Tech/5 Owen W. Sutton are inscribed on the Memorial to the Fallen. These two members of 2nd Cavalry Regiment were killed during Operation Cowboy. The place of their final battle lies not far from there. We’ll take a forest path, heading along the green tourist trail, until we reach the now extinct village of Rosendorf (Růžov). On its outskirts, the fatal five-hour battle took place on 30 April 1945. From there, we'll continue along different trails towards the town of Hostouň. Along the way, we'll try to find the original American foxholes, and then we'll go down to the town and see the castle where the famous stables were located. We will return to Bělá nad Radbuzou by train. As a farewell, we will have lunch together at a local Czech restaurant. Afterwards, we will return to Domažlice. Note: The hiking route on this day will be about 12 km. Breaks are scheduled along the way.
Trip Summary
Accommodation
Hotel
3 days trip
Domazlice, Díly & 1 more
Transportation
Car, Train
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What's excluded?
Transportation to and from Domažlice
Lunches & Dinners
Pet Fee (250 CZK per night)
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