Planning Your Hike in Podyjí National Park

Before you hit the trails, you need to know the basics. Most hikes start right from the Znojmo city center or the nearby Gránice valley. You can easily learn how to get to Znojmo from Brno by bus for a day trip. The Czech hiking marker system uses colored stripes that are very easy to follow. Yellow and green trails are often shorter, while red and blue trails cover longer distances. Check the Visit Czechia website for seasonal updates and weather alerts.

The best time to visit is from late April to October. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and rushing river views. Autumn is spectacular when the vineyards and forests turn golden. Summer can be warm, but the forest canopy provides plenty of shade. Always carry a physical map or use a reliable offline GPS app. The park is a protected zone, so stay on marked paths to protect the local flora.

10 Best Walking Trails in Podyjí National Park from Znojmo

The following list features the most iconic and accessible routes starting in or near Znojmo. These trails cover a mix of historical sites, river views, and unique ecosystems. You can find more inspiration in our guide to day trips from Brno for your 2026 itinerary.

1. Name: Králův stolec (King's Chair) Type: Viewpoint Why go: This is the most famous viewpoint near Znojmo. It offers a panoramic view of the Dyje river meander. Best for: Photographers and sunset lovers. Where: 4km west of Znojmo. Time: 2-3 hours round trip. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow trail from the Znojmo dam. Tip: Bring binoculars to spot rare birds in the valley below.
2. Name: Šobes Vineyard Trail Type: Experience Why go: Visit one of the oldest and most beautiful vineyards in Europe. It is located on a sunny rocky spur. Best for: Wine enthusiasts. Where: Near Podmolí village. Time: 4-5 hours from Znojmo. Cost: Free access; wine tasting costs extra. Getting there: Follow the red trail from Znojmo through the forest. Tip: The seasonal wine stand is usually open from June to September.
3. Name: Sealsfieldův kámen (Sealsfield's Stone) Type: Viewpoint Why go: A massive rock formation named after a local writer. It provides a dramatic vertical view of the river. Best for: Experienced hikers. Where: Near Popice. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the green trail from the Znojmo train station. Tip: The path is rocky, so wear sturdy hiking boots.
4. Name: Gránické údolí (Gránice Valley) Type: Nature walk Why go: A peaceful valley with a small stream right on the edge of the city. It features educational boards for kids. Best for: Families and casual walkers. Where: Just below the Znojmo castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the Znojmo town square. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Znojmo Catacombs nearby.
5. Name: Havranické vřesoviště (Havraníky Heath) Type: Nature Why go: A unique steppe-like landscape with blooming heather and rare orchids. It feels like a different world. Best for: Nature lovers and botanists. Where: Between Havraníky and Znojmo. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the blue trail from the southern edge of Znojmo. Tip: Visit in late summer to see the heather in full purple bloom.
6. Name: Nový Hrádek Ruins Type: Day trip Why go: Explore the ruins of a medieval castle overlooking the Austrian border. The views of the river loop are stunning. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near Lukov village. Time: 5-6 hours. Cost: Small fee for guided tours of the ruins. Getting there: Take a local bus to Lukov, then follow the green trail. Tip: Check opening hours as the inner ruins are closed in winter.
7. Name: Čížov Iron Curtain Memorial Type: Experience Why go: See the last remaining section of the Iron Curtain in the Czech Republic. It includes a watchtower and barbed wire. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Čížov village. Time: 1 hour (plus travel). Cost: Free. Getting there: 20-minute drive or bus from Znojmo. Tip: Visit the National Park Visitor Center located in the same village.
8. Name: Hardeggská vyhlídka (Hardegg Lookout) Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers the best view of the Austrian town of Hardegg and its castle. It is a classic Podyjí photo spot. Best for: Scenic views. Where: Near the border at Čížov. Time: 2 hours from Čížov. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the blue trail from Čížov toward the border bridge. Tip: You can cross the bridge to visit the castle in Austria.
9. Name: Kraví hora (Cow Hill) Type: Sight Why go: A hill on the edge of Znojmo offering views of the city skyline and the park. It is famous for its granite outcrops. Best for: Quick evening walks. Where: Southern Znojmo. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Znojmo hospital area. Tip: This is the best place to see the Znojmo city walls at night.
10. Name: Ledové sluje (Ice Caves) Trail Type: Nature Why go: A trail leading to a deep gorge where ice remains until summer. Note that the caves are not accessible for safety. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Near Vranov nad Dyjí. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus to Vranov, then follow the red trail. Tip: The temperature drops significantly near the gorge, even in July.

Essential Gear and Hiking Safety in Podyjí

Hiking in Podyjí is generally safe, but preparation is key. Most trails have significant elevation changes as you descend to the river. Wear shoes with good grip to handle slippery rocks and mud. Always carry at least 1.5 liters of water, especially on the Šobes trail. There are few shops once you enter the deep forest zones. You can find more travel tips on the Go To Brno portal.

Mobile signal can be weak in the deep river valleys. Download the Mapy.cz app, which is the local standard for hiking maps. It shows every small path and spring in the park. Respect the "Quiet Zones" where you must stay on the path. These areas protect nesting birds and rare animals. If you encounter wild sheep or deer, keep a respectful distance and do not feed them.