the tenth stage of hiking
Havlíčkův Brod - Přibyslav
Basic information about the trail
Connecting two historic towns in the heart of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina), the Havlíčkův Brod – Přibyslav stage of the Cyril and Methodius Route offers long-distance walkers a captivating journey through rolling rural landscapes and scenic river valleys. Starting in Havlíčkův Brod—a town renowned for its rich medieval origins, preserved Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and vibrant square—hikers set out on a balanced 24-kilometer trail that weaves along the upper reaches of the Sázava River, combining cultural exploration with peaceful outdoor movement. As the route unwinds eastward, walkers traverse a picturesque countryside marked by gentle hills, quiet woodlands, and traditional highland villages. The trail closely follows historic trade routes that once connected regional mining and manufacturing centers. Along the way, trail users encounter local architectural landmarks, historic bridges, and serene natural spots that highlight the quiet charm and authentic identity of the Posázaví region. Ending at the prominent Gothic Tower and historic chateau in Přibyslav, this well-accessible hiking stage serves as an ideal segment for active cultural tourists. With convenient rail connections at both endpoints and a well-marked pathway, the route invites hikers to slow down, immerse themselves in highland history, and enjoy the physical and cultural benefits of long-distance walking along the Council of Europe’s regional heritage network.
What's ahead of us?
Starting point: Havlíčkův Brod
Ending point: Přibyslav
Distance: 16,1 km
Estimated travel time: 4:34 hours
Difficulty: medium
Altitude: ascent 189 m, descent 127 m
Surface: mainly paved roads, dirt and forest roads.
Critical points: none
Our tip:
Take enough food and drink with you, as there are sections of the trail without the possibility of buying food during the journey.
What can be seen?
Archaeological, pilgrimage, technical and natural monuments.
Information centre Havlíčkův Brod
- Havlíčkovo náměstí 57, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- tic.muhb.cz
- icentrum@muhb.cz
- +420 569 497 353
Vysočina Museum
- Havlíčkovo náměstí 48, 580 01 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.muzeumhb.cz
- muzeum@muzeumhb.cz
- +420 569 429 151
Discover Regional History and Book Culture at the Vysočina Museum in Havlíčkův Brod
Located directly on Havlíčkovo Square in the prominent Renaissance building known as Havlíček’s House (Havlíčkův dům), the Vysočina Museum in Havlíčkův Brod (Muzeum Vysočiny Havlíčkův Brod) is a vital cultural institute dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Sázava River region. The museum resides in a beautifully restored burgher house featuring a late Gothic core and an ornate Renaissance gable, making the structure itself a significant architectural landmark within the town's historical center.
The museum’s permanent exhibitions offer visitors a rich journey through regional history, focusing on traditional crafts, local trade guilds, and the literary history of the highlands. Special emphasis is placed on the life, work, and legacy of the renowned 19th-century Czech writer, journalist, and patriot Karel Havlíček Borovský, who lived in the house. Additionally, the museum highlights the town’s long-standing tradition of book printing and publishing, showcasing rare historical volumes, regional art, and cultural artifacts.
As a key cultural POI at the starting point of the Havlíčkův Brod – Přibyslav hiking stage on the Cyril and Methodius Route, the Vysočina Museum provides long-distance walkers with essential historical context. It allows travelers to immerse themselves in the literary and socio-cultural identity of the highlands before embarking on their journey along the scenic Sázava River valley.
Dean's Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
- Rubešovo náměstí 22, 580 01 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.farnosthb.cz
- farnosthb@seznam.cz
- +420 569 427 707
Discover Architectural Heritage at the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Havlíčkův Brod
Dominating the skyline just off the main town square, the Deanery Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Děkanský kostel Nanebevzetí Panny Marie) is one of the oldest and most significant architectural landmarks in Havlíčkův Brod. Originally founded in the late 13th century alongside the development of the medieval town, the church stands as a testament to the long urban and cultural evolution of the Sázava River region in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina).
The church complex features a striking blend of architectural styles, combining a medieval Gothic core and vaulting with later Renaissance rebuilding and elegant Baroque interior modifications. Adjoining the main sanctuary is an iconic four-sided bell tower reaching a height of over 50 meters, housing the famous historical bell named “Vilém,” cast in the late 14th century, which remains one of the oldest preserved bells in the Czech Republic.
As a central cultural POI at the starting point of the Havlíčkův Brod – Přibyslav hiking stage on the Cyril and Methodius Route, the Deanery Church offers long-distance walkers an enriching historical milestone. It serves as a prominent landmark to begin your journey, allowing travelers to appreciate the artistic and civic heritage of Havlíčkův Brod before embarking along the scenic valley of the Sázava River.
Staffel's Bastion
- Havlíčkův Brod
- www.muzeumhb.cz
- info@muzeumhb.cz
- +420 569 429 151
Discover Medieval Fortifications and Artistic Legacy at Štáfl's Bastion in Havlíčkův Brod
Nestled along the surviving southern stretch of Havlíčkův Brod's medieval fortification walls, Štáfl's Bastion (Štáflova bašta) is a remarkably preserved architectural landmark of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina). Originally constructed in the 14th century as a key semicircular defensive tower for the town's protection, the structure uniquely blends stone fortification engineering with a picturesque half-timbered and log upper story added in later centuries.
The bastion is deeply connected to the life and work of the prominent 20th-century Czech painter, illustrator, and mountain enthusiast Otakar Štáfl, who used the atmospheric space as his studio. Today, the carefully restored interior serves as a cultural landmark and exhibition space dedicated to Štáfl’s artistic legacy, as well as showcasing traditional crafts, vernacular timber architecture, and the historical development of Havlíčkův Brod’s medieval defense systems.
As a picturesque cultural POI near the starting point of the Havlíčkův Brod – Přibyslav hiking stage on the Cyril and Methodius Route, Štáfl’s Bastion offers long-distance walkers an inspiring heritage stop. It invites travelers to admire the town’s historical craftsmanship and artistic identity before setting off along the scenic pathways of the Sázava River valley.
Park Future
- Havlíčkův Brod
- tic.muhb.cz
- icentrum@muhb.cz
- +420 569 497 353
Discover Urban Nature and Historical Ponds at Park Budoucnost in Havlíčkův Brod
Extending gracefully from the edge of the historic center along the Cihlářský Stream, Park Budoucnost is the green lung of Havlíčkův Brod and one of the largest municipal parks in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina). Established in the late 19th century by a local civic association, this expansive landscape park covers over 25 hectares, seamlessly connecting preserved urban nature with the town’s rich cultural heritage.
The park is characterized by its scenic cascade of historical ponds—including the prominent Hastrman, Rytíř, and Cihlář ponds—framed by mature tree alleys, winding footpaths, and open meadow areas. Along its shaded avenues, visitors encounter notable monuments, including a memorial to the famous Czech writer Karel Havlíček Borovský, artistic sculptures, and remnants of old stone bridges, making it a peaceful sanctuary for both outdoor recreation and historical reflection.
As a refreshing natural POI along the Havlíčkův Brod – Přibyslav hiking stage on the Cyril and Methodius Route, Park Budoucnost provides long-distance walkers with an inviting transition from the urban square to the open countryside. It offers an ideal spot to pause, recharge, and enjoy the harmonious blend of local history and nature before continuing along the scenic Sázava River valley.
Havlíček Square and town houses
- Havlíčkův Brod
- tic.muhb.cz
- icentrum@muhb.cz
- +420 569 497 353
Discover Historical Architecture at Havlíčkovo Square in Havlíčkův Brod
Serving as the natural heart of the town’s urban conservation area, Havlíčkovo Square (Havlíčkovo náměstí) is an exceptionally preserved architectural showcase in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina). Framed by a remarkably intact ensemble of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque burgher houses, this spacious square reflects centuries of regional trade, civic prosperity, and rich cultural evolution along the historic transportation routes of the Sázava River region.
Among the square’s most prominent landmarks are unique architectural treasures such as the Old Town Hall (Stará radnice) with its distinctive facade, the iconic Havlíček’s House, and the house “U Černého orla” featuring intricate sgraffito decorations. The center of the square is adorned with a Baroque Marian plague column from the early 18th century and a stone fountain featuring a statue of Triton, creating an authentic atmospheric backdrop for visitors exploring the town’s heritage.
As a core cultural POI and the official starting location for the Havlíčkův Brod – Přibyslav hiking stage on the Cyril and Methodius Route, Havlíčkovo Square offers long-distance walkers an ideal setting to begin their journey. It invites travelers to admire the town’s rich urban history and vibrant local life before setting off into the rolling countryside of the Sázava River valley.
Castle Podhled
- Zámecká 1, 582 21 Pohled
- www.zamekpohled.cz
- info@zamekpohled.cz
- +420 778 010 062
Discover Monastic and Aristocratic History at Pohled Chateau
Situated on the right bank of the Sázava River along the hiking stage between Havlíčkův Brod and Přibyslav, Pohled Chateau (Zámek Pohled) is one of the most remarkable historical complexes in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina). Originally founded in the 13th century as a Cistercian convent known as Vallis Beatae Mariae (Valley of the Blessed Virgin Mary), the complex underwent centuries of structural evolution, transforming from a medieval monastic center into a noble manor house following late 18th-century secularization.
The architectural layout of the chateau features a distinct H-shaped plan surrounding a historical courtyard, seamlessly blending medieval Gothic elements with later Renaissance and Baroque rebuilding phases. Adjoining the former convent buildings is the Gothic Church of St. Andrew, accompanied by a late Baroque prelature and a picturesque landscape park, reflecting the changing cultural and economic landscape of the Posázaví region across different eras.
As an essential cultural POI along the Cyril and Methodius Route, Pohled Chateau offers long-distance walkers an enriching architectural stop midway through their journey. It provides hikers with a unique window into the regional transition from medieval religious institutions to country estates, serving as a peaceful historical landmark before continuing further along the Sázava River valley.
Přibyslav Town Museum
- Bechyňovo náměstí 45, 582 22 Přibyslav
- www.kzmpribyslav.cz/mestske-muzeum
- ic@pribyslav.cz
- +420 569 484 361
Discover Regional History at the Town Museum of Přibyslav
Located in the historic heart of the town, the Town Museum of Přibyslav (Městské muzeum Přibyslav) offers visitors an engaging insight into the rich cultural, social, and economic heritage of the Sázava River region. Housed in historical premises near the main square, the museum collects and preserves precious artifacts that document the town's evolution from its medieval beginnings through early industrial development in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina).
The museum’s curated exhibitions highlight key chapters of regional history, including traditional folk crafts, local trade organizations, and regional ethnography. A prominent section is dedicated to the famous Hussite commander Jan Žižka of Trocnov, who died nearby during the siege of Přibyslav in 1424. Visitors can explore historical models, archaeological finds, period photographs, and rare household items that illustrate daily life in the highlands across different centuries.
As an informative cultural stop at the starting point of the Přibyslav – Žďár nad Sázavou stage on the Cyril and Methodius Route, the Town Museum provides hikers with a deeper historical context. It allows travelers to appreciate the rich local heritage and historical identity of the region before embarking on their journey along the scenic Sázava River valley.
Information centre Přibyslav
- Bechyňovo náměstí 45, 58222 Přibyslav
- www.kzmpribyslav.cz
- ic@pribyslav.cz
- +420 569 484 361
Chateau Přibyslav
- Husova 300, 582 22 Přibyslav
- www.chh.cz
- jpatek@chh.cz
- +420 569 430 050
Discover Heritage and History at Chateau Přibyslav
Standing proudly near the banks of the Sázava River, Chateau Přibyslav (Zámek Přibyslav) is an elegant Renaissance monument steeped in regional history. Built between 1560 and 1565 by Zechariah of Hradec on the site of a former medieval castle, the chateau features a picturesque arcaded courtyard and classic Italianate architectural influences. Located in the heart of the town, it serves as an inviting cultural starting point for travelers exploring the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina).
Today, the chateau houses the specialized Center for Fire Protection History (Centrum hasičského hnutí), displaying unique national exhibits dedicated to the history of firefighting, historical horse-drawn fire engines, uniforms, and technical equipment. Beyond its museum displays, the chateau grounds feature a peaceful courtyard, historical displays honoring the Hussite leader Jan Žižka, and picturesque park surroundings that highlight the town’s rich historical evolution over the centuries.
As a key starting point on the Přibyslav – Žďár nad Sázavou stage of the Cyril and Methodius Route, Chateau Přibyslav offers hikers a blend of cultural discovery and relaxed local charm. It provides long-distance walkers with an ideal location to begin their trek through the scenic river valley toward the Žďárské vrchy region.
Church of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist
- Kostelní 267, 582 22 Přibyslav
- www.farnostpribyslav.cz
- rkf.pribyslav@dihk.cz
- +420 736 513 352
Discover the Architectural Landmark of Přibyslav
Dominating the historic town square of Přibyslav, the Church of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist (Kostel Narození svatého Jana Křtitele) is a splendid architectural monument blending Baroque elegance with medieval origins. Built between 1750 and 1753 under the patronage of Prince Karl Anton von Dietrichstein, this expressive single-nave church replaced an earlier medieval structure that had stood on the site since the 13th century. It remains the spiritual and visual centerpiece of the town in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina).
The defining feature of the church complex is its iconic Gothic bell tower (Gotická věž), which stands independently right beside the main nave. Rising to a height of over 30 meters, this massive stone tower dates back to 1497 and originally served as a defensive stronghold before being incorporated into the church grounds. Inside the church, visitors can admire refined Baroque altars, intricate ceiling frescoes, and historic liturgical furnishings that reflect centuries of regional artistic patronage.
As a significant cultural POI at the very start of the Přibyslav – Žďár nad Sázavou stage on the Cyril and Methodius Route, the church complex offers hikers a fascinating historical introduction. Standing near the town center, it provides travelers with a memorable architectural landmark before setting off along the Sázava River valley.
Tower at the Church of St. John the Baptist
- Kostelní 265, 582 22 Přibyslav
- www.kzmpribyslav.cz
- ic@pribyslav.cz
- +420 569 484 361
Discover Panoramic Views from the Gothic Tower in Přibyslav
Rising dramatically above the town square right next to the parish church, the Gothic Tower in Přibyslav (Gotická věž) is one of the oldest and most distinctive historical landmarks in the region. Built in 1497, this massive stone structure stands completely independent from the main church building. Originally constructed as a fortification tower and watchtower to protect the town during turbulent medieval times, it remains an iconic testament to 15th-century military architecture.
Standing over 30 meters high, the tower boasts thick stone walls, historical clock mechanisms, and heavy church bells that have sounded across the valley for centuries. Visitors who climb its internal wooden staircase are rewarded with panoramic views overlooking the rooftops of Přibyslav, the winding course of the Sázava River, and the rolling green hills of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina).
As an essential cultural highlight at the starting point of the Přibyslav – Žďár nad Sázavou stage on the Cyril and Methodius Route, the Gothic Tower offers hikers a rewarding vantage point. It serves as a memorable landmark to begin your long-distance trek, providing a unique perspective over the scenic landscape you are about to traverse.
Where to eat and sleep?
Restaurants and accommodation along the trail.
Pension Hurikán 63
- U Stadionu 2116, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.hurikan63.cz
- info@hurikan63.cz
- +420 605 214 341
Pension Starr
- Žižkova 3070, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.starr.cz
- recepce@starr.cz
- +420 569 426 000
Pension Jantar
- Bezručova 143, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.penzion-jantar.cz
- josef.mysicka@centrum.cz
- +420 720 522 585
Hostinec U Palánů
- Žďárská 1717, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.upalanu.cz
- hostinec.palan@centrum.cz
- +420 569 428 392
Hotel At the Golden Lion
- Havlíčkovo náměstí 176, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.uzlateholva.cz
- hotel@uzlateholva.cz
- +420 569 420 276
Pension U Kroupů
- Nádražní 106, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.ukroupu.cz
- ukroupu@fendrych.cz
- +420 777 917 188
Apartment U Truhláře
- Mírová 1308, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- ubytovani.venzhofer.cz
- ubytovani@venzhofer.cz
- +420 605 703 051
Pension U Kroupů
- Nádražní 106, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.ukroupu.cz
- ukroupu@fendrych.cz
- +420 777 917 188
Apartments Dawa
- Velká Losenice 214, 59211 Velká Losenice
- apartmany@dawa.cz
- +420 737 465 307
Hotel At the Golden Lion
- Havlíčkovo náměstí 176, 58001 Havlíčkův Brod
- www.uzlateholva.cz
- hotel@uzlateholva.cz
- +420 569 420 276
Pension U Kubínů
- Bechyňovo náměstí 56, 58222 Přibyslav
- www.ukubinu.cz
- ukubinu@gmail.com
- +420 776 146 660
Fire hotel Přibyslav
- Husova 385, 58222 Přibyslav
- www.hotelpribyslav.cz
- recepce@hasicskyhotel.cz
- +420 775 150 650
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Photogallery
Photos from hiking.
Why walk the trails of the Cyril and Methodius Route?
The long-distance trails of the Cyril and Methodius Route invite you to pilgrimage sites and archaeological sites that have contributed significantly to the development of Slavic culture. They are signposted in both directions and encourage wandering without borders, not only state borders.
- Experience: you'll be surprised what you can do
- Great signposting: tourist signposting
- Incredible landscape: we wander through the countryside off the busy stretches
What can be obtained?
Perhaps everyone likes to bring back something from hiking, be it various tourist and souvenir items. If you will be hiking the Cyril and Methodius Route, we have prepared the following printed materials to motivate you to hike the trail:
- Pilgrimage passports: collecting stamps for a special passport
- Memorial letters: a souvenir letter at the end of the journey
- Maps: printed guide