First, let me apologize for the lack of updates on this here blog-thing. Wifi in the apartment is less reliable than ever, so we've had a tough time doing much of anything internet-related. That being said, KC and I have been doing a lot of fun things here and Prague is great!
Earlier this week, we took a train out to the small town of Turnov to go hiking in the region of Česky Raj (the name means "Bohemian Paradise"). After a rainy start and some serious difficulties finding the hiking trail, or "rambling path," we had a wonderful time exploring the countryside and taking lots of pictures. The region is characterized by verdant forest and striking limestone geomorphology: karst, sinkholes, caves, etc. Here are just a few photos - this place is gorgeous!
Interesting building we saw from the train. I really liked the contrast of the pretty flowers and the decaying structure.
This is the old Jewish cemetery in Turnov. Like most Jewish cemeteries we've seen in Europe, the graves are crammed together in a very small area due to lack of space. This cemetery is particularly interesting, though, because about half of it is covered by a small highway overpass.
The view from the beginning of the trail, which goes through a lovely residential neighborhood in Turnov.
Beautiful forest.
KC at an overlook on the top of a karst formation. There was a small spiral staircase attached to this towering rock feature, and the view from the top was amazing.
Me, at the same overlook.
LIMESTONE.
After hiking for a while, we came upon the Valdštejn Castle, which was first built about 1,000 years ago and added on to over the centuries. The structure was built right into some amazing limestone karst towers, which made it even more spectacular.
Statue in the gardens of Valdštejn.
The view of the valley, as seen from Valdštejn Castle.
Since Valdštejn is so ancient, there are also a fair amount of ruins there, like this one.
This whole country is absolutely gorgeous. Everything looks like a painting.
KC on the trail.
These are the limestone karst I was talking about.
Absolutely spectacular, right?
"Rock towns" in the Hruba Skala region. 
While walking to the bus station in Sedmihorky (near Turnov), we saw a lot of beautiful agricultural lands as well. This part of the world is so gorgeous in every way, and I feel incredibly lucky to experience it.
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