Cesky Krumlov/Linz, Danube

Ooh, buffet for breakfast, big grins on all faces. I bet there's a much bigger quantity of food eaten today. I stick to my usual fruit and yoghurt, then have toast & egg/cream cheese/smoked salmon. It was all still available from the kitchen but much more tempting when it's right in front of you! Ian's gooey eggs benedict look revolting to me but to him are delicious!
Today we travel 2 hours up steep windy roads to Cesky Krumlov, a unesco world heritage town dating from the 13th century, in the Czech Republic. It's foggy, frosty, the puddles are frozen and its very atmospheric. After 1/2 drive the sun comes out and it's spectacular but still 1*. CK is beautiful with its mainly restored old buildings and cobbled streets, the river forms a horseshoe bend around the centre, and a huge castle overlooks the lot. It's only a tourist centre now, with shops (main product bohemian crystal), cafes and museums, but well worth the visit.
Back down more windy roads in the dark (the sun sets at 4.30) and we arrive in Linz at 6pm. The Christmas market has just opened and is a feast for eyes and nose - twinkling lights, intricate decorations and gifts for sale, mulled wine and cider, roasting chestnuts ..... why aren't we staying another 6 weeks for Christmas???!
We are delighted to welcome Kriztina and Gerfried on board, a wonderful couple we couchsurfed with. Big hugs, we sing the yodelling song Kriztina taught me, and make plans to meet in Marrakech one day, inshallah.