By now most everyone is well aware what a many-splendored thing is Prague, and some may even have heard of UNESCO World Heritage Site Český Krumlov. But if you're thinking of a visit to the Czech Republicin 2014, this bucolic rolling countryside is dotted with marvelous lesser-known towns and small cities which aren't so overrun and pricey, yet are positively packed with history, culture, wonderful eating, spas, wineries/vineyards, beer distilleries, adventure activities, and more. Places like Jindřichův Hradec, Mikulov, Plzeň, Tábor, and Valtice/Lednice can be done as day trips from Prague, but also well merit overnighting, because... keep reading