Top Brno Reservoir Walking Trails for Every Hiker

The reservoir features a diverse network of paths. Some trails stay close to the water for easy navigation. Others climb into the surrounding hills for better views. You can mix and match these routes to create a full-day loop.

Most trails are well-marked with color-coded signs. Look for the standard Czech hiking markers on trees and poles. These ensure you stay on the right path through the woods. Here are the top 10 trails you should experience in 2026.

• Quick Pick (Best Overall): Veveří Castle Shore Path
• Quick Pick (Best for Families): Rakovec Promenade
• Quick Pick (Best View): Kozí Horka Lookout
• Quick Pick (Best Free Activity): The Dam Wall Walk

1. Name: Veveří Castle Shore Path Type: Sight/Activity Why go: This trail combines stunning lake views with a visit to a medieval fortress. It is the most iconic route in the area. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: North-western side of the reservoir. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free (Castle entry is extra). Getting there: Take the ferry to the "Hrad Veveří" stop. Tip: Visit the castle bridge for the best photo of the water.
2. Name: The Dam Wall (Hráz) Type: Experience Why go: Walk across the massive concrete structure that holds back the Svratka River. It offers a unique perspective on the engineering. Best for: Engineering fans and quick visits. Where: Southern end near Bystrc. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 or 11 to the "Přístaviště" stop. Tip: This is the perfect starting point for all Brno Reservoir walking trails.
3. Name: Rakovec Promenade Type: Sight Why go: A wide, paved path that is perfect for a relaxed stroll. It features many benches and snack stands. Best for: Families with strollers and casual walkers. Where: Western bank near the main harbor. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the Přístaviště tram stop. Tip: Try the local "langoš" fried dough at one of the stands.
4. Name: Kozí Horka Nature Loop Type: Viewpoint Why go: This trail leads you away from the crowds and into the quiet woods. It offers several hidden spots to view the water. Best for: People seeking peace and quiet. Where: Western shore, south of the castle. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take a bus to the "Kozí horka" stop. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as some sections are quite steep.
5. Name: Sokolské Koupaliště Beach Walk Type: Experience Why go: This route takes you past the most popular swimming and sports areas. It is very lively during the summer months. Best for: Social butterflies and sports fans. Where: Eastern shore. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the ferry to the "Sokolské koupaliště" stop. Tip: Bring your swimsuit if you visit during July or August.
6. Name: Rokle Valley Path Type: Nature Why go: A beautiful trail that follows a small creek through a narrow valley. It feels very remote despite being close to the city. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Eastern side of the reservoir. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the ferry to the "Rokle" pier. Tip: This path stays cool even on very hot summer days.
7. Name: Zouvalka Forest Route Type: Nature Why go: A rugged path that offers great views of the narrowest part of the reservoir. You can see the ferry passing right below you. Best for: Experienced hikers. Where: Between Veveří and Rokle. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from the Veveří Castle area. Tip: The trail can be muddy after rain, so check the weather.
8. Name: Jelení Žlíbek Loop Type: Nature Why go: This trail takes you deep into the protected forest area. It is excellent for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts. Where: Northern hills above the water. Time: 2.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the Veveří Castle parking lot. Tip: Stay on the marked paths to protect the local ecosystem.
9. Name: Mečkov Riverbank Hike Type: Nature Why go: Explore the northernmost reaches where the reservoir turns back into a river. It is very scenic and quiet. Best for: Long-distance walkers. Where: Far northern end. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the ferry to the "Mečkov" stop. Tip: This is the last stop for the ferry, so check the return schedule carefully.
10. Name: Obora Holedná Connection Type: Day trip Why go: You can walk from the reservoir directly into a large deer park. It is one of the best walking trails in Obora Holedná nearby. Best for: Families and animal lovers. Where: South-west of the dam. Time: 2 hours (connection only). Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Bystrc neighborhood. Tip: Look for the tall lookout tower for a view of the whole city.

Essential Planning for Brno Reservoir Walking Trails

Getting to the reservoir is very simple from Brno city center. You should take Tram 1 toward Bystrc-Ečerova. Get off at the "Přístaviště" stop to reach the main docks. From there, most Brno Reservoir walking trails are within easy reach. You can check schedules on the DPMB official site for accuracy.

The best time to visit is from April to October. This is when the ferry boats are in operation. The ferries are a great way to skip sections of the trail. You can hike one way and boat back to the start. It makes for a very relaxing day on the water.

Pack comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water for your trip. While there are many kiosks, some forest sections have no services. A light jacket is also smart as the wind can be cool. Most trails are dog-friendly, but keep them on a leash in busy areas.

Nearby Nature Escapes and Day Trips

If you have more time, explore other areas near Brno. The Marianske Udoli valley nature walks offer similar lakeside views. That area features several smaller ponds and limestone cliffs. It is a great alternative if the reservoir is too crowded.

Another excellent option is the Kravi Hora park walking trails for a shorter city walk. These paths provide a great view of the Spilberk Castle. They are perfect for a sunset stroll after a day at the reservoir. Brno has many green spaces to offer every visitor.

For those who enjoy forest paths, the northern hills are endless. You can walk for miles without seeing a car. Always bring a map or use a mobile hiking app. The local terrain can be surprising if you lose the trail markers.