The 39th edition of the European Traffic Education Contest (ETEC) will take place from 10 to 13 September in Náchod, Czech Republic at the kind invitation of the Autoclub of the Czech Republic (ACCR).
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The European Traffic Education Contest (ETEC) aims to intensify traffic education in every country and thereby contribute to reducing the risk of children becoming involved in accidents on their bicycles. The Contest should encourage motoring and touring clubs to enhance or develop their own traffic education activities in their respective countries. Through this event the media and authorities should be made aware of the importance of this task.
The Contest was created in 1986. It is held annually and takes place in September in the country of the host Club. At local, regional or national qualifying events, every participating Club selects a team of two girls and two boys aged between 10 to 12 years. Hence, this event has the status of a European finale in which a regular 22 countries take part.
The Contest takes up one full day, during which the children have to accomplish various theoretical and practical exercises. The best team wins a challenge cup. The contestants are not ranked individually.
For general information on the contest and previous editions, please visit the European Traffic Education Contest webpage.
ETEC receives financial support from the FIA Foundation and the FIA Safe & Sustainable Mobility grants programme
Thursday, 10 September 2026
Arrival of teams. Transfer with a translator to Hotel Verde Montana and check-in.
13:00 Lunch
18:30 Dinner
20:00 Welcome/Briefing at Hotel Verde Montana
Friday, 11 September 2026
07:30 Breakfast
09:30 Meeting point (exact location to be confirmed)
09:45 Lining up of the teams
10:00 First part of the contest
12:30 Lunch
13:30 Second part of the contest
16:00 Closing ceremony (Announcement of the results, distribution of prizes and medals, photos and closing speech)
18:30 Dinner
22:00 End
Saturday, 12 September 2026
07:30 Breakfast
09:00 Visiting Zoo Dvůr Králové
12:30 Free lunch at the zoo
17:00 Transfer back to hotel Verde Montana
19:00 Gala Dinner at Hotel U Beránka Náchod
20:00 Entertainment for children (including gift exchange), feedback sessions for coaches
22:00 End and transfers to Hotel Verde Montana
Sunday, 13 September 2026
07:30 Breakfast
Departure: transfers will be organised
The Czech Republic, located in the heart of Central Europe, is a country known for its rich history, well-preserved architecture, and strong cultural traditions. Bordering Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Poland, it has long been a crossroads of European trade and culture. The country covers an area of approximately 78,900 km² and has a population of around 10.7 million. The official language is Czech, and the currency is the Czech koruna (CZK).
The climate is temperate continental, with warm summers and cold winters. The Czech Republic is famous for its rolling hills, forests, rivers, and historic towns, offering excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and sightseeing. It is also internationally recognised for its gastronomy, traditional cuisine, and world-famous beer culture.
Visitors interested in history and culture can explore medieval castles, UNESCO World Heritage sites, charming town squares, and a lively cultural scene that combines tradition with modern life.
Náchod is a historic town located in northeastern Czech Republic, close to the Polish border. With a population of around 20,000 inhabitants, it offers a peaceful atmosphere combined with a rich historical background. The town is set in a scenic area surrounded by hills and nature, making it an attractive destination for visitors who enjoy both culture and the outdoors.
The main landmark of Náchod is the impressive Náchod Castle, which dominates the town and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The town centre features a charming square, historic buildings, and a relaxed local atmosphere. Nearby natural areas, including the Broumovsko Protected Landscape Area, provide opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
Náchod combines small-town charm, historical significance, and natural beauty, offering visitors a calm and welcoming environment.
Participants travelling by plane should land at Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG). The transfer to Náchod takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours by car or bus, depending on traffic.
Participants arriving by car, van, or bus can go directly to the hotel. Further arrival and parking instructions will be provided on site.
A valid passport or national ID card is required to enter the Czech Republic. As a member of the Schengen Area, citizens of the EU, UK, USA, and many other countries may enter visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
The official currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). Currency exchange offices and ATMs are widely available. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
September in Náchod is generally mild and pleasant, with cooler evenings and occasional rainfall.
Temperatures usually range from 10°C to 22°C, so we recommend bringing light layers, a jumper for the evenings, and a light jacket or umbrella just in case.
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation will be allocated on a first come first served basis. The four children and their two coaches will be staying at Hotel Verde Montana (ul. 1 Maja 25A, 57-350 Kudowa Zdrój, Poland).
The hotel is located approximately 160 km from Václav Havel Airport Prague. Transfers are included. The Tennis Club where the contest will take place is approximately 6.5 km away, i.e. 7 minutes by bus from the hotel (transfers are provided).
GUESTS
Clubs that would like to attend with people other than the members of the team (four children and two coaches) will be required to pay a fee.
The guest package price includes accommodation, full board and transfers from 10 to 13 September 2026.
Price per person for full board at Hotel Verde Montana: TBC
Participation is limited to 25 teams and registration is done of first come-first served basis. Register your Club here. Registration form II will be shared here at a later stage.
The organiser will cover the cost of accommodation, meals and transfer for 4 children and 2 coaches (accompanying adults) for 25 participating Clubs from 10-13th of September 2026.
To ensure good communication between the organising committee and the teams, it is imperative that one of the team leaders speaks English. The host club will provide and accompanying host/hostess and interpreter for each team. There is no guarantee that this person will speak the team’s mother language.
Participants will have the opportunity to join an optional visit to Zoo Dvůr Králové, one of the most renowned safari zoos in the region. Known for its strong focus on African wildlife, the zoo offers a unique chance to see a wide variety of animals in spacious, naturalistic environments, making it a perfect setting to unwind and enjoy a different kind of experience after the competition.
