Exploring the Marian Valley hiking trails Brno

The valley is a favorite weekend destination for locals. Most trails follow the Říčka stream, which creates a series of peaceful ponds. The terrain is generally easy, making it accessible for most fitness levels. You can find many stroller-friendly walks in Brno right here in the valley. The main paths are paved, while side trails offer more rugged forest experiences.

• Best overall: Muchova bouda trail for history and food.
• Best for families: Eldorádo playground and the bobsleigh track.
• Best for adventure: The hike to Pekárna Cave.
• Best free activity: Swimming in the U Raka reservoir during summer.

Before you head out, it is wise to check the weather. The valley can get muddy after heavy rain. Most visitors start their journey at the Líšeň bus terminal. From there, the entrance to the nature park is just a short walk away. You will find several maps posted at the main entrance to help you navigate.

12 Best Marian Valley hiking trails Brno offers

This list highlights the most iconic spots within the valley. Each location offers something unique, from prehistoric caves to quiet fishing spots. The Go To Brno portal often recommends these trails for their natural beauty. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as some loops can take several hours.

1. Name: Muchova bouda Type: sight/experience Why go: This historic forest chalet serves traditional Czech food and beer. It is the heart of the valley's hiking culture. Best for: hungry hikers and families Where: Middle of the valley Time: 2 hours Cost: Free to visit; meals around 200-300 CZK Getting there: Follow the blue trail from the valley entrance. Tip: The outdoor seating is perfect for watching the sunset.
2. Name: Pekárna Cave Type: experience Why go: A massive prehistoric cave with a huge entrance. It is one of the most famous archaeological sites in Moravia. Best for: history buffs and explorers Where: Northern end of the valley Time: 4 hours round trip Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the blue then yellow trail toward Mokrá-Horákov. Tip: Bring a headlamp to explore the deeper sections safely.
3. Name: Pod Hrádkem Reservoir Type: sight Why go: A peaceful water reservoir surrounded by steep forest slopes. It is ideal for photography and quiet reflection. Best for: photographers and couples Where: Central valley Time: 1.5 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Take the main paved path from the bus stop. Tip: Visit in autumn for the best colorful foliage reflections.
4. Name: Horákovský hrad Ruins Type: sight Why go: Explore the remains of a 13th-century castle hidden in the woods. Only small fragments remain, but the atmosphere is magical. Best for: ruin explorers Where: Above the valley floor Time: 2.5 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Steep climb via the green marked trail. Tip: The trail can be slippery, so use trekking poles.
5. Name: U Raka Reservoir Type: activity Why go: The most popular spot for swimming and sunbathing in the valley. It has clear water and grassy banks. Best for: summer visitors Where: Near the valley entrance Time: half-day Cost: Free Getting there: 10-minute walk from the Líšeň, hřbitov bus stop. Tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot.
6. Name: Bobová dráha (Bobsleigh Track) Type: activity Why go: A thrilling ride down a metal track through the trees. It is one of the longest bobsleigh tracks in the region. Best for: adrenaline seekers and kids Where: Entrance of the valley Time: 1 hour Cost: Approx 80-100 CZK per ride Getting there: Bus 55 to Mariánské údolí stop. Tip: Buy a multi-ride ticket to save money.
7. Name: Kadlcův mlýn Type: sight Why go: A historic mill turned into a hotel and restaurant. It marks a beautiful transition point in the valley. Best for: a comfortable lunch break Where: Lower valley Time: 1 hour Cost: Free to view; meals vary Getting there: Main paved road from the entrance. Tip: Check their website for seasonal events and weddings.
8. Name: Eldorádo Type: activity Why go: A large adventure playground with wooden structures and farm animals. It is a paradise for younger children. Best for: families with toddlers Where: Near the first reservoir Time: 2 hours Cost: Small entry fee for certain attractions Getting there: Very close to the main parking area. Tip: Bring change for the small animal feed dispensers.
9. Name: Mokrá-Horákov Forest Loop Type: experience Why go: A less crowded trail that takes you deep into the Moravian Karst border. It offers true solitude. Best for: serious hikers Where: Upper valley ridges Time: 5 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the yellow trail from Muchova bouda. Tip: This trail has more elevation gain than the valley floor.
10. Name: Říčka Stream Path Type: sight Why go: A gentle walk following the winding stream. You can see local wildlife like herons and kingfishers. Best for: birdwatchers Where: Along the valley floor Time: 2 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the blue markers from the start. Tip: Wear waterproof shoes if you plan to step near the bank.
11. Name: Stará osada to Marian Valley Trail Type: activity Why go: A longer approach that connects the city suburbs to the nature park. It shows the transition from urban to wild. Best for: long-distance walkers Where: Starts in Líšeň Time: 3 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Start at the Stará osada transport hub. Tip: This is a great route for mountain biking.
12. Name: Goat Hill Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: Offers a panoramic view of the valley and the distant Brno skyline. It is the best spot for sunset. Best for: romantic walks Where: Southern ridge Time: 2 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Follow the red trail from the Líšeň cemetery. Tip: The climb is short but very steep.

Practical guide for Marian Valley hikers

Getting to the valley is very easy. You can take bus number 55 from the city center or Líšeň. Check the DPMB - Brno Public Transport website for the latest schedules. Most buses run every 10 to 15 minutes during the day. If you drive, there is a large paid parking lot at the entrance.

The valley is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and rushing water. Summer is best for swimming and the bobsleigh track. Autumn offers stunning gold and red leaves across the hills. Winter is quiet and perfect for a snowy walk, though some restaurants may close.

Pack light but bring water. While there are pubs like Muchova bouda, they can be busy. Mobile signal is generally good throughout the valley. Always stay on marked trails to protect the local ecosystem. The area is part of a protected landscape, so please carry your trash out.

Nearby nature escapes in Brno

If you have explored all the Marian Valley hiking trails Brno has, there are other options. You might enjoy the Brno Reservoir scenic nature walks on the western side. That area is much larger and features a ferry service. For something closer to the center, try the Wilson Forest scenic trails.

Another great spot is the Hady Quarry viewpoint hike. It is located just a few kilometers from Marian Valley. It offers a unique steppe landscape and views of the entire city. Brno is truly a city surrounded by green spaces. You can find more scenic walks in Brno by exploring the northern hills too.