Yes, you read correctly! Off to the Alps next week with a rear mounted bike rack, there are two straps that clip on just above the middle brake light (estate). The straps barely clear the glass so if the rear wiper is operated it will foul on the straps, not good!

Any easy, temporary way I can de-activate/remove the rear wiper? I know I'll forget about it, especially when reversing with the main wipers on!

Could you not just remove the arm for the trip? If you lift up the cover at the end there is a nut you undo to take the arm off.

is there a fuse that just does that?

Fuse 27 (15amps) according to the manual for my 110TDi (2001). That fuse only covers the rear wiper.

Yes agree just take out the fuse is much more simpler.

Nice one, cheers.

I also own an Octavia Mk. 1 break and a Thule strap-on bike rack. I prefer removing just the rear blade - hassle free (removing/replacing the fuse may be tricky, the entire arm - out of question).

It works fine with my rack as the arm doesn't interfere with the straps.

Make sure you put an inch of plastic tube on the arm terminal, just in case you inadvertently activate the rear wiper, otherwise you might permanently scar the glass.