Where Did He Escape the Political Scene?

Landscape, tranquility, and breathtaking sights define the essence of the journey. Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, a prominent president and a significant figure from the Castle, was above all, a deeply feeling and educated individual connected to his roots. Even though he spent a considerable part of his life outside of his homeland, his heart always resonated with the Czech and Slovak lands. He had beloved spots that drew him back time and again, where he experienced tranquility, engaged in deep thoughts, and held conversations. He cherished scenic views, enjoyed fine wines, and valued discussions held outdoors. Embark on an adventure to escape the mundane and explore the places that shaped Masaryk’s World.

You can visit these sites through multiple trips or extended weekends. Tailor your map based on your mood: from the vineyards of South Moravia to the majestic castles of Slovakia, traversing mountains, spas, and vibrant city cafés. Perhaps you will find yourself in Masaryk’s favorite spots, perceiving the Czech Republic not just as a nation, but as a beloved home.

Following Masaryk to His Childhood Region of Hodonín and Čejkovice

Masaryk’s early years were deeply tied to South Moravia: he was born on March 7, 1850, in Hodonín, where his parents worked at an estate—his father, Josef, served as a coachman, while his mother, Terezie, was a cook. The family managed well, but due to his father’s job, they had to relocate occasionally. Consequently, Tomáš attended schools in not only Hodonín but also in Čejkovice and Čejč, and later moved on to the real school in Hustopeče and then to the grammar school in Brno.
The birthplace of TGM in Hodonín no longer stands, but you can visit the Baroque chateau, home to the Masaryk Museum, where an exhibit dedicated to our first president is featured. One location that held a special place in his heart was Čejkovice, known for its vineyards and sunny south, embracing the openness of Moravia. Presently, there are lovely views, wine cellars, and remnants of Masaryk’s legacy, like the Masaryk House. Through the exhibition, you will discover that even in his school years, Tomáš had empathy for the oppressed and vulnerable, building friendships with “enemies” from the nearby Potvorova, as well as New and Old Poddvorov.

Hustopeče: Almond Orchards and the Masaryk Trail

Tomáš’s mother hailed from Hustopeče – this town, intertwined with the Masaryk family history and where he attended school, is featured along the Masaryk and Hustopeče educational trail. During this roughly two-kilometer journey, you’ll uncover the charming town known for its almond orchards and wine-making traditions. You’ll stroll through the historic center and discover the location of the former Piarist secondary school, which currently serves as a vocational secondary school. You will identify key spots such as the birth home of Masaryk’s mother Teresa, visit the dwelling where his father, Daddy Joseph, lived post his wife’s passing, and finally reach the Community House where Tomas’ younger brother Ludvík operated a print shop. The last stop is the town cemetery, where numerous ancestors and relatives of TGM, including his parents, are laid to rest. Did you know that after Masaryk’s death in 1937, a symbolic handful of earth was taken from their grave to be placed in Masaryk’s own grave in Lány?
To avoid getting lost, you can grab a brochure with a map from the information center in Hustopeče. It even includes Mom Masaryk’s family recipe for poppy seed cake!

Brno: A Pathway from Moravia to the World

In Brno, Masaryk first encountered the expansive realm of higher education and a worldview that went beyond national borders. Even though his academic journey flourished later in Vienna and Prague, this was the location that showcased his unique ability to merge ethical grounds with educational pursuits. Nowadays, the South Moravian metropolis commemorates Masaryk’s legacy through the university that bears his name.

Židlochovice: Castle, Výhon, and Stunning Views

Masaryk often revisited the region of his early years during his presidency. One of his summer getaway spots was the castle in Židlochovice. It was more than just a place for relaxation; he frequently welcomed guests, held discussions, and engaged in reading and writing there. He also found joy in the nearby hill of Výhon, known for its breathtaking vistas. Climbing this hill, ideally following a marked trail, is a wonderful way to experience the silence that the President cherished so deeply.

Summer Retreats of the Masaryk Family

After tying the knot with American Charlotte Garrigue, the Masaryk family set up home in Vienna. In 1882, following an opportunity for an extraordinary professorship at the University of Prague, they relocated to Prague. They initially resided in Smíchov on what is now Holečkova Street, and later in various locations within Královské Vinohrady, Malá Strana, and Hradčany. During the summers, the family explored the countryside, frequently returning to South Moravia to visit TGM’s parents in Hrušovany and Hustopeče. They enjoyed getaways to Potštejn, a site popular among Masaryk University colleagues, to Řevnice, the village of Hutisko-Solanec in the Beskydy Mountains, and even to the scenic village of Bystrička in Slovakia near Martin.
The Masaryk family was also fond of Bad Schandau, a historic German spa town along the Elbe River within Saxon Switzerland. The landscapes featuring sandstone formations and deep woods matched his quest for contemplation. You can now visit not only the historic spa but also the national park, walking along the same paths where the president once strolled in peaceful reflection of his thoughts.

Presidential Summer Residences

After Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk assumed the presidency, renovations began in 1919 at the Prague Castle to create a suitable apartment for him. Along with the existing government residences in Topoľčianky, Slovakia, and in Židlochovice in South Moravia, a gracious summer presidential residence was also sought. Ultimately, Lány Castle, complete with its park, game preserve, and adjoining fields and forests, was chosen smartly.
The Masaryk family cherished Lány immensely, and the President ended up spending more time there compared to Prague Castle. His time in Prague was limited to a few days weekly, with most governmental duties, including official meetups, primarily carried out in Lány. Today, there is a museum and an equestrian statue in Lány commemorating President Masaryk. The castle grounds feature a garden with a greenhouse, as well as a game preserve where TGM enjoyed riding his favorite horse Hector. At the local cemetery, visitors can pay their respects at the Masaryk’s grave.
Another cherished residence for Masaryk was the castle in Slovakia’s Topoľčianky. The beautiful chateau, sprawling English park, national stud farm, and renowned horse breeding facilities, along with serene forests, satisfied his desire for tranquility and dignity. Presently, the castle operates as a museum and hotel, and the surrounding landscape invites extended visits.

Summer Apartments, Spas, and Renewal Haven

Masaryk took great pride in maintaining both mental and physical harmony. He habitually visited spas like Teplice, Mariánské Lázně, Luhačovice, and Bohdaneč Spa, as his trips were not solely health-oriented but also aimed at connecting with common people. He had a fondness for simple, straightforward dialogue rather than pompous rhetoric.
Tomas Garrigue Masaryk also had a particular affection for Karlovy Vary. He frequently returned, enjoying his favorite spots while staying at the Imperial Hotel. It’s said that he dined at the elegant cruise café and restaurant numerous times, even visiting St. Linhart on each occasion, totaling eight visits. Since 2007, a bronze statue commemorating his visits can be found on Masaryk Avenue.

Masaryk as a Travel Guide

TGM served as president during an era when a nation was born from the ground up. However, he maintained his inner peace and an openness to the world. His cherished locations are more than mere historical sites—they embody living landscapes filled with values, tranquility, labor, and faith in humanity.
Try to experience these places not just as a tourist but as a fellow traveler. Perhaps then, you may hear his famous words “fear not and steal not” in a new light.

Moravian Vineyards & Towns

Masaryk was especially fond of South Moravia’s gentle hills and vineyards, where he found tranquility and good company.

• Čejkovice

• Hustopeče

• Židlochovice

• Brno

His Hometown Region

Hodonín

• Masaryk Museum (Baroque château)

  • Permanent exhibit on Masaryk’s life and family

• Historical town centre

• Family landmarks

Spa Towns

He enjoyed the healing waters and social life of Bohemia’s great spas:

• Teplice

• Mariánské Lázně

• Luhačovice

• Karlovy Vary

  • Bronze statue on Masaryk Avenue

Presidential & Academic Residences

• Prague

  • With wife Charlotte, Masaryk settled here to teach and later to govern.

• Lány

  • Summer residence of the president; landscaped park and chateau

Slovak & Mountain Retreats

• Topoľčany, Slovakia (summer stays)

• Hutisko-Solanec (Beskydy Mountains, nature retreats)

What to Explore “On the Trail”

1. Čejkovice & Hustopeče – vineyard walks and wine taverns

2. Hodonín – Masaryk Museum, historic centre, family sites

3. Brno & Židlochovice – lectures, garden strolls, country house visits

4. Spa circuit – sample mineral springs and 19th-century spa architecture

5. Karlovy Vary – promenade to the Masaryk statue

6. Lány Presidential Estate – guided tours of château and park

7. Topoľčany & Beskydy – Slovakia’s plains and the Beskydy foothills

Each stop reflects a facet of Masaryk’s character—his love of nature, thirst for conversation, and commitment to Czech and Slovak lands.