Experience a Winter Wonderland in Štramberk

Be amazed by the unique beauty of the gingerbread-scented town of Štramberk in the foothills of the Beskids, a town so picturesque it is called the Bethlehem of Moravia. You’ll feel like you are in a wonderland when strolling through the snow-covered winding alleys past the timbered cottages all the way to the square with houses that look like they’re made from marzipan, above which the Trúba castle tower rises.

Follow the Gingerbread Aroma

The picturesque town is beautiful in every season but winter brings an extra special sparkling charm to Štramberk. A stroll through the snow-covered, foothill countryside, following the little paths made in the snow to the beautiful wooden cottages with illuminated windows, is a caress for the soul. And when the bakers pull out the local traditional honey speciality from the oven, the Štramberk Ears, and the gingerbread aroma spreads in the streets, the wonderland atmosphere is complete.

The Horror of Štramberk or Ears for a Snack

But why do they even bake ears in Štramberk? The reason is far from romantic. The sweet treat is made in honour of the victory of the Christians over the Tatars. They used to cut ears off their enemies and sent them to their khan as proof of success. But don’t worry, the Štramberk Ears don’t taste anything like the story they represent. You definitely have to try them! For example, U Hezounů patisserie makes excellent ears, baked using the traditional method, following old recipes.

The Cave of the Neanderthals

The story of the Šipka Cave dates very far back; the place offers the most beautiful view of the whole snow-covered town with the Trúba tower. The cave is the oldest human settlement in Czechia! Besides the remains of ancient animals, a part of the lower jaw of a Neanderthal child was found there. The discovery is very valuable: it is older than similar finds in the German Neanderthal! Šipka is the most valuable prehistoric archaeological site in Czechia! The cave is presented in the Šipka Museum.

A Beer Is a Must! Even in a Bathtub

But let’s go back to the present. What would make the already perfect experience of visiting the Moravian Bethlehem even better? A rest in the beer spa with a mug of the golden drink, brewed in the local mini-brewery! Immerse yourself in a wooden tub with a hot bath full of beer ingredients and meditate on the wonderful day you’ve had...

A Nativity Scene in Every Window

The magical Christmas atmosphere is completed with various nativity scenes every December and January. You can see them in the windows and shop windows of historical buildings all around Štramberk! And if you haven’t had enough Christmas magic, visit the Christmas Cottage where the holiday never ends.