The leading and finest hotel in Cesky Krumlov, the 5-star Hotel Ruze occupies a 16th-century former Jesuit Monastery and College. The hotel is a short distance away from namesti Svornosti, the Old Town square. From here, walk east along Horni past the Church of St.Vitus and numerous tiny souvenir shops. The hotel is on your right in a huge building which has been meticulously renovated a couple of years ago. The other big building on your left facing the hotel is the former Jesuit seminary, now housing the excellent Regional Museum. If you arrive at the bus station, walk south along Tavrina for about 200 metes. Turn right when you see the crossroads and walk for another 200 metres on Horni. Hotel Ruse is on your left.
The hotel's interior and exterior were extensively restored and modernised with no expense spared. The beauty and style of its Renaissance architecture were preserved surprisingly well; this definitely gives visitors the opportunity to get a feeling of 16th-century history right from the hotel's gate. The hotel's 71 rooms were all carefully decorated to reflect the atmosphere of days past; yet they contain all modern amenities such as satellite television, three-band radio, hairdryer, direct-dial telephone and luxury bathroom with both bath and shower. Some of the rooms for which you have to pay higher rates overlook the river. The view from the room balcony is impressive.
The first thing that catches your eyes on entering through the huge monastery gate is the exhibition of local artistic works which includes fine pieces of Bohemian crystal, unique ceramics and handicrafts. These are displayed in antique showcases in the lobby and two adjacent rooms. Even if you are not staying in Hotel Ruze, you can still have a look at this wonderful art gallery; you may even be tempted to buy since most items are for sale. If you continue straight ahead, you'll reach the magnificent Renaissance-style restaurant used as a dining hall and breakfast room. The restaurant's panoramic terrace overlooking the river caters for 80 people. Reserve a table if you want to enjoy a special evening of excellent dining and live music in a romantic atmosphere.
The hotel's lobby and Internet cafe is an elegant place that provides clients with coffee, drinks and delicious pastries while the atmospheric wine cellar is the right place where you can relax and listen to gypsy music. A concert hall with seats for 150 people and a fitness centre with pool, sauna, solarium and beauty salon complete the picture. Other amenities include: exchange bureau, laundry service, car and bike rental service, souvenir shop and guarded car park.
The breakfast served in the restaurant from 8am to 11am leaves nothing to be desired while the choice of Bohemian, international and medieval dishes served for dinner is amazing. The barbeque-style cooking, the chefs dressed in 16th-century robes and the classic music add up to create a unique atmosphere of tranquillity and relaxation.