At a Glance: Your 2-Day Nature Escape

This itinerary focuses on the scenic Litovelské Pomoraví nature trail and its connection to the city. You will spend your first day deep in the forest. The second day brings you closer to the city's water features. This plan ensures you see the best of both worlds. It is designed for a moderate pace with plenty of time for photos. You can easily adjust the timing based on your energy levels.

• Day 1: Sluňákov Center, House of Nature installations, and forest hiking.
• Day 2: Poděbrady Lake, Morava riverside walks, and Olomouc city walls.
• Best Base: Central Olomouc or Horka nad Moravou for early starts.

For more official details on the region, visit the Olomouc Tourism Portal. They provide maps and seasonal event updates. Planning ahead is key for a smooth trip in 2026. Make sure to check local weather forecasts before you head out.

Day 1: Hiking the Litovelské Pomoraví Nature Trail

Your adventure begins in the village of Horka nad Moravou. This is the main gateway to the Litovelské Pomoraví nature trail. The path is flat and easy for all fitness levels. You will walk through ancient oak and ash forests. Keep an eye out for rare birds and local wildlife. The river Morava creates a maze of small streams here.

Day 1: 09:00 - 12:00: Start at the Sluňákov Center for Ecological Activities. Explore the unique 'House of Nature' outdoor gallery. These art pieces are built into the landscape. 12:00 - 13:30: Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the forest picnic spots. 13:30 - 17:00: Hike the main trail loop toward the 'Garden of Eden' installation. 17:00 - 19:00: Return to Horka for a local meal or head back to Olomouc.

Logistics Tip: Take the local train or bus from Olomouc to Horka nad Moravou. The journey takes less than fifteen minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day. If you prefer a more active start, consider river rafting and boating in Olomouc to reach the trail area. This adds a fun water element to your morning.

Day 2: Lake Poděbrady and Olomouc Riverside

On the second day, you will explore the southern edge of the protected area. This section connects the forest to the urban landscape. You will start at a popular local lake. Then, you will follow the river back into the heart of the city. This route offers great views of the historic fortifications. It is a relaxing way to end your nature trip.

Day 2: 09:00 - 12:00: Visit Lake Poděbrady for a morning walk or swim. Use the walking route to Poděbrady lake for the best scenery. 12:00 - 14:00: Have lunch at the lakeside bistro. 14:00 - 16:30: Walk south along the Morava river toward the city center. 16:30 - 18:30: View the best riverside views of Olomouc city walls. 18:30 - 20:00: Dinner at a riverside pub.

Logistics Tip: The path from the lake to the city is paved and well-lit. It is perfect for an afternoon stroll. You can also rent a bike in the city to cover this distance faster. Many locals use this route for their daily exercise. For more national travel context, see Visit Czechia - Olomouc.

Where to Stay for the Nature Trail

Staying in central Olomouc is the most convenient option. You will have access to many restaurants and shops. Most hotels are within walking distance of the main transit hubs. From here, you can reach the trail in minutes. The city offers everything from boutique hotels to budget hostels. Many places offer secure bike storage for active travelers.

If you want a quieter experience, look for stays in Horka nad Moravou. This village is right at the start of the Litovelské Pomoraví nature trail. It is ideal for those who want to wake up in nature. You will find cozy guesthouses and eco-friendly lodges. These options often provide a more local Moravian feel. Be sure to book early during the summer months.

Public transport in the city is excellent and very reliable. You can use trams and buses to get around easily. Most trailheads are accessible by these public options. For a unique evening, try a romantic evening river walk in Olomouc. It is a great way to see the city lights after a day in the woods.

Practical Tips for Visiting in 2026

The Litovelské Pomoraví nature trail is beautiful year-round. However, spring and autumn offer the most vibrant colors. Be aware that the Morava river can flood in early spring. This may close some low-lying sections of the trail. Always check the local water levels before your visit. Summer is great for shade, but bring insect repellent for the forest.

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for this trip. The terrain is mostly flat, but paths can be muddy. If you plan to bike, the trails are well-marked and safe. You will share the path with other hikers and families. Always stay on the marked trails to protect the rare plants. This helps preserve the area for future visitors.

The region is also very welcoming to pets. You can find many dog-friendly river walks in Olomouc. Just remember to keep your dog on a lead in the protected zones. This ensures the local wildlife is not disturbed. Carrying a reusable water bottle is also highly recommended.

Optional Swaps and Rainy Day Plans

If the weather turns sour, do not worry. Olomouc has many indoor attractions to explore. You can visit the Olomouc Museum of Art for a dose of culture. It is one of the best museums in the country. The historic cathedrals also offer shelter and stunning architecture. You can easily spend a few hours wandering through these sites.

For those who want a shorter walk, try the riverside walk in Olomouc. It stays within the city limits but offers fresh air. This is a great swap if you are short on time. You still get to see the Morava river without the long hike. It is also very close to many riverside cafes and pubs.

Families might enjoy the local parks instead of the deep forest. Smetanovy Sady offers wide paths and beautiful flower beds. It is a more controlled environment for younger children. You can still enjoy the greenery without the rugged terrain. These parks are located right next to the city center.