10 Best Stops on the Walking Path from Veveří Castle to Brno Dam

The route is approximately seven kilometers long and follows the reservoir shoreline. Most hikers prefer starting at the castle and walking toward the city. This direction allows for a relaxing finish near the tram hub. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some forest sections. Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes for the dirt paths. Here are the top stops to look for along the way.

1. Name: Veveří Castle Type: iconic sight Why go: This is one of the oldest and largest castle complexes in Moravia. It offers stunning views of the water from its towers. Best for: History lovers and photographers. Where: The northern end of the reservoir. Time: 1.5 - 2 hours. Cost: Small fee for courtyard; more for guided tours. Getting there: Take the ferry or bus 303 from Bystrc. Tip: Look for food festivals this weekend at the castle grounds.
2. Name: Pod Hradem Bridge Type: viewpoint Why go: This modern footbridge offers a perfect angle to photograph the castle reflecting in the water. It connects the two sides of the reservoir. Best for: Social media photos. Where: Just below the castle walls. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down the path from the castle main gate. Tip: Stand in the middle of the bridge for the best symmetry.
3. Name: The Red Hiking Trail Type: nature Why go: This section of the path leads you through a dense forest. It provides cool shade on hot summer days. Best for: Nature enthusiasts. Where: Between the castle and Zouvalka. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the red markers from the bridge. Tip: Watch your step as some tree roots cross the path.
4. Name: Zouvalka Bay Type: viewpoint Why go: This is a quiet bay where the water is often very still. It is a great place to spot local birds. Best for: Birdwatching and quiet reflection. Where: Mid-way along the western shore. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Continue south on the red trail. Tip: Bring binoculars if you enjoy seeing wildlife.
5. Name: Rokle Meadow Type: experience Why go: Rokle is a popular stop for a quick snack or a drink. There are often small kiosks selling local Czech beer. Best for: A mid-hike break. Where: Western shore near the ferry stop. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Varies by snack. Getting there: Follow the path toward the Rokle boat dock. Tip: Try the fried cheese bread if the local kiosk is open.
6. Name: Kozí Horka Beach Type: nature Why go: This area features grassy banks perfect for a quick dip in the water. It is a favorite spot for paddleboarding. Best for: Summer swimming. Where: Southern half of the reservoir. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from Rokle along the shore. Tip: There are public changing cabins available nearby.
7. Name: Rakovec Promenade Type: neighborhood Why go: The path turns into a paved promenade here. It is lined with benches and small playgrounds for children. Best for: Families with strollers. Where: Near the Bystrc district. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Continue on the main shoreline path. Tip: This area gets busy on sunny Sunday afternoons.
8. Name: Kotva Ferry Dock Type: unique local experience Why go: This is the main hub for the reservoir's electric boat fleet. You can watch the boats dock or hop on one yourself. Best for: A relaxing boat ride. Where: Near the end of the promenade. Time: 15 minutes to watch. Cost: Free to watch; boat tickets vary. Getting there: Follow the signs for "Pristaviste". Tip: Check the boat trip schedule from Brno to Veveří Castle to plan a return trip.
9. Name: Brno Reservoir Dam Wall Type: sight Why go: Walking across the massive concrete dam is an impressive experience. You can see the water on one side and the valley on the other. Best for: Engineering fans. Where: The southernmost point of the water. Time: 10 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk across from the Kotva area. Tip: Read the plaques about the dam's construction in the 1930s.
10. Name: Bystrc District Type: neighborhood Why go: This is the finish line where you can find many restaurants and ice cream shops. It is the gateway back to the city. Best for: A post-hike dinner. Where: The end of the trail near the tram loop. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Varies. Getting there: Walk past the dam wall to the tram station. Tip: Take tram 1 or 10 to get back to Brno center quickly.

Essential Planning Tips for Your Hike

Planning your trip on the Veveří Castle via Brno Dam route is easy. The best time to visit is from April to October. During these months, the ferries are running and the kiosks are open. Winter walks are peaceful but can be very slippery near the water. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.

Public transport is the best way to reach the trail. You can use the DPMB website to find tram and bus times. Most people take tram 1 to Bystrc and then a bus or boat to the castle. If you walk the whole way, you will need about three hours. Bring a bottle of water and wear sunscreen in the summer. There are several spots to refill your water along the promenade.

Best Nearby Day Trips from Brno

If you have more time in the region, consider other excursions. Brno is a central hub for many beautiful locations in Moravia. You can find many best day trips from Brno that are under an hour away. One popular choice is the Moravian Karst. It features deep caves and an underground river. Another option is the Lednice-Valtice Complex, which is a UNESCO site.

These trips offer a different perspective on the local landscape. While the castle walk is about nature and water, the karst is about geology. The southern estates are about grand architecture and wine. Most of these places are reachable by train from the main station. Make sure to book cave tours in advance during the peak season.