the sixteenth stage of hiking
Vranov near Brno - Křtiny
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Basic information about the trail
Discover a truly unique stage of the Cyril and Methodius Route, connecting two major historical sites in South Moravia: Vranov u Brna and Křtiny! This hiking trail guides you through the serene, forested landscape and deep history of the Moravian Karst. The route is a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical depth, leading you directly past the famous caves of the Moravian Karst, including Jáchymka, Bull Rock, Church, and Tooth of Time. This ensures an unforgettable experience for hikers and history enthusiasts alike. The culmination of your journey is the magnificent Baroque Church in Křtiny. Explore the precious Baroque architecture in Vranov and marvel at the spectacular masterpiece by J. B. Santini awaiting you at the end of the trail in Křtiny, following the legacy of Saints Cyril and Methodius!
What's ahead of us?
Starting point: Vranov near Brno
Ending point: Křtiny
Distance: 15,6 km
Estimated travel time: 5:02 hours
Difficulty: medium
Altitude: ascent 372 m, descent 420 m
Surface: mainly forest roads, paved roads
Critical points: In front of the portal of the cave Býčí skála and further on the part of the blue-marked tourist path from the cave of the Bull Rock through the cave of the Church to the road towards Křtiny, this part of the trail is closed in the period from March to June due to the nesting of the peregrine falcon. This section has to be passed by the road.
Our tip:
From Adamov, from the signpost Adamov – nám., follow the blue hiking trail along Plotní Street. After 500 m you will approach the crossroads. Before this junction there is a turn to the right where there are garages. So turn towards the garages, walk to the end where behind the garages there is a beaten forest path along the Křtinský brook. Even if you miss the signpost Josefovské údolí – rozc., you will safely follow the blue tourist sign after 500 m, which will lead you to the signpost Stará Hut’ u Adamova.
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.
Pauline Monastery
- Vranov 7, 664 32 Vranov u Brna
- dc-vranov.cz
- dc-vranov@katolik.cz
- +420 604 509 455
The Pauline Monastery in Vranov u Brna: A Baroque Sanctuary with the Unique Liechtenstein Crypt
Discover one of the most significant Marian pilgrimage sites in Moravia, the Pauline Monastery with the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Vranov near Brno. This early Baroque complex, founded between 1617 and 1633 by Prince Maximilian of Liechtenstein, is a masterpiece designed by the Brno builder Ondřej Erna and architect Giovanni Maria Filippi. The church, which replaced an earlier wooden chapel—allegedly built out of gratitude by Marshal Vilém for a miraculous eye cure—rises majestically above the scenic landscape, historically known as "Moravian Switzerland." It is the spiritual hub where the Pauline Friars (Minims of St. Francis of Paula) have served since 1633.
The monastery’s main worldwide attraction and magnet for tourists is the Liechtenstein Family Crypt, located beneath the church nave. This is a globally unique burial site: it is the only European necropolis where the reigning members of one sovereign state are interred outside their own state territory. The crypt, expanded in the Empire style around 1820, holds the remains of 14 ruling princes and dozens of other family members, including Princess Marie Benedikta, the last to be interred here in 1992. Despite the monastery’s dissolution by Emperor Joseph II in 1784, the complex’s western wing survived, and the Paulines returned to Vranov in 1992 to gradually restore the cloister complex and establish the Spiritual Center of St. Francis of Paula. Today, the site offers not only spiritual retreats and accommodation but also a unique atmosphere situated on the Cyril and Methodius Route and close to the Moravian Karst, featuring interiors adorned with frescoes and the precious Gothic statue of the Vranov Mother of God with clasped hands.
Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary
- Vranov 7, 664 32 Vranov u Brna
- dc-vranov.cz
- dc-vranov@katolik.cz
- +420 604 509 455
The Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Vranov near Brno: The Heart of the Pilgrimage Site
The Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Vranov near Brno is a jewel of Early Baroque architecture and the spiritual heart of the entire Pauline Monastery complex. This renowned Marian pilgrimage site has deep roots, reaching back to the 13th century when, according to legend, Moravian Marshal Vilém of Rosenberg erected a wooden chapel on this spot in gratitude for a miraculous cure of his blindness following an apparition of the Virgin Mary. The current monumental church was commissioned by Prince Maximilian of Liechtenstein and built between 1617 and 1633, based on designs by architect Giovanni Maria Filippi. It is a single-nave structure that dazzles with rich fresco decorations. The interior is dominated by the main altar featuring the rare Gothic statue of the Vranov Mother of God, which is unique in its depiction—the Virgin Mary is shown without the Infant Jesus, in a posture of humble prayer with partially clasped hands.
The greatest attraction for visitors, aside from the main sanctuary, is a worldwide rarity: the extensive Liechtenstein Princely Family Crypt, which lies beneath the church nave and holds the remains of 14 ruling princes. A visit to the church, located on the prominent Cyril and Methodius Trail (Cyrilometodějská stezka), thus offers a unique convergence of deep spirituality, fascinating history, and architectural artistry set in the picturesque environment of “Moravian Switzerland.”
Church of St. Barbara
- U Kostela 377 679 04 Adamov
- www.adamov.cz
- mesto@adamov.cz
- +420 516 499 620
The Church of Saint Barbara in Adamov: A Neo-Gothic Gem Housing the Zwettl Masterpiece
In Adamov near Brno, discover the unique Neo-Gothic Church of Saint Barbara, patron saint of miners, smelters, and all those connected with fire and metal, perfectly reflecting the town's industrial heritage. Constructed between 1855 and 1857 based on the design by Viennese architect Josef Kieser, the church, with its unplastered façade and simple turret instead of a traditional bell tower, harmoniously complements the original character of the Adamov ironworks buildings. The greatest attraction for visitors and an artistic treasure of European significance is the Late Gothic Assumption of the Virgin Mary Altarpiece, also known as the Zwettl Altarpiece, which Adamov received as a gift from the Princes of Liechtenstein. The altarpiece originates from the Cistercian monastery in Zwettl in Lower Austria and represents a masterpiece of lime wood carving from 1516 to 1525.
Standing over seven meters tall and featuring 59 intricately detailed figures, it is one of the most precious and largest carved wooden monuments of its kind in Central Europe. A visit to the Church of Saint Barbara, located in the picturesque Josefov Valley on the edge of the Moravian Karst, thus offers a fascinating synthesis of industrial history, Gothic art, and Neo-Gothic architecture.
The Old Ironworks near Adamov
- Josefovská 460, Adamov
- www.technicalmuseum.cz
- info@technicalmuseum.cz
- +420 516 446 671
The Old Ironworks near Adamov: The Iron Heart of the Moravian Karst
Visit the Old Ironworks near Adamov (Stará huť), a fascinating technical monument deep within the Josefov Valley, which stands as a living testament to the centuries-old iron-making tradition of the Moravian Karst. This valley was a key metallurgical region with roots dating back to prehistoric times and early medieval Slavic iron smelting. The dominant feature of the complex, also known as the František Ironworks, is the historic blast furnace chimney dating back to 1805, which ranks among the most significant preserved technical monuments of its kind in the Czech Republic. The site, once managed by the Princes of Liechtenstein, vividly demonstrates the complex iron production process that took place here for centuries. Today, the Old Ironworks is accessible as an exhibition of the Blansko Museum, where visitors can explore preserved technological equipment, including the remnants of the hammer mill and the casting house, and delve into the history of raw iron production.
Thanks to its location in a picturesque Karst canyon, a visit to the Old Ironworks is an ideal destination for enthusiasts of industrial history and technical heritage, while also serving as an excellent starting point for hiking in the beautiful Josefov Valley.
Jáchymka Cave
- Hrabůvka, 679 05 Křtiny
- moravskykras.ochranaprirody.cz
- morkras@nature.cz
- +420 516 428 880
Jáchymka Cave: An Adventure in the Heart of the Moravian Karst
Discover Jáchymka Cave, one of the most interesting and easily accessible natural phenomena in the very heart of the Moravian Karst. This cave, located near the Josefov Valley, is unique for being a through-cave: measuring about 30 to 40 meters, it offers a short, thrilling adventure where you enter one portal and exit the other. Jáchymka is freely accessible year-round, making it an ideal destination for families and tourists who wish to explore the Karst underground without the need for an organized tour. Beyond its visual appeal, Jáchymka holds immense archaeological significance. Numerous paleontological and archaeological traces have been found within its chambers, including the bones of prehistoric animals and evidence of habitation by Paleolithic hunters. Today, Jáchymka, carved into Devonian limestones, serves as a crucial wintering site for bats, underscoring its ecological value within the protected landscape area. You can perfectly combine a visit to the cave, which is part of a major hiking route, with exploring nearby historical sites like the Old Ironworks and enjoying hiking in the picturesque surrounding area.
Thanks to its location in a picturesque Karst canyon, a visit to the Old Ironworks is an ideal destination for enthusiasts of industrial history and technical heritage, while also serving as an excellent starting point for hiking in the beautiful Josefov Valley.
Bull Rock
- Hrabůvka, 679 05 Křtiny
- moravskykras.ochranaprirody.cz
- morkras@nature.cz
- +420 516 428 880
Bull Rock Cave (Býčí skála): The Moravian Karst’s Greatest Archaeological Mystery
Býčí skála (Bull Rock) Cave, majestically situated in the scenic Josefov Valley, is one of the most important and enigmatic sites in the entire Moravian Karst Protected Landscape Area. Its monumental entrance portal serves as a gateway to the second-longest Karst system in the Czech Republic, where geology intersects with millennia of history. Býčí skála achieved worldwide recognition and European status as a unique archaeological monument in 1872, when the renowned researcher Jindřich Wankel discovered a magnificent Hallstatt burial dating back to the Early Iron Age (ca. 500 BC). The find, often linked to Celtic culture, contained the remains of dozens of individuals, parts of a ceremonial chariot, and fascinating artifacts, including the iconic bronze bull statue, after which the cave is named. Evidence of large-scale ritual sacrifices confirmed that Býčí skála functioned as the burial chamber of a high-ranking Celtic chieftain.
The complex remains shrouded in mystery and bears traces of modern history—from its use in local iron production to the dramatic era of World War II, when the cave passages were adapted by the Nazis for manufacturing purposes. Although the cave is permanently closed to the public to protect its unique ecosystem and crucial bat hibernation site, its imposing entrance is a popular destination on hiking trails and an ideal starting point for exploring the Josefov Valley. Be sure to check for current information, as the cave is exceptionally opened to the public only a few times a year, offering a rare chance to step into the depths of this prehistoric and geological marvel.
Church Cave
- Hrabůvka, 679 05 Křtiny
- moravskykras.ochranaprirody.cz
- morkras@nature.cz
- +420 516 428 880
Little Church Cave (Kostelík Cave): A Natural Church in the Heart of Říčky Nature Park
Discover the charm of the Little Church Cave (Kostelík Cave), a unique through-cave situated in the scenic valley of the Říčka Stream near Ochoz u Brna, within the protected Říčky Nature Park. This Karst cavity, which forms part of the wider Moravian Karst, is an ideal destination for family trips and enthusiasts of easy hiking. The Little Church Cave, roughly 12 to 40 meters long, is remarkable for its arched shape, which gave rise to its poetic name. Its central section clearly evokes a church nave, and inside you can find a unique natural rock formation resembling a stone pulpit (kazatelna). This architectural impression, crafted purely by nature, makes the Little Church Cave an unforgettable site. The cave was formed by the erosive force of the Říčka Stream, which sculpted the Devonian limestones over millennia.
In addition to its visual appeal, the Little Church Cave also holds significant historical and archaeological value. During the Paleolithic period, the cave served as an occasional shelter and campsite for prehistoric hunters. Although it is not a guided show cave, its two differently sized entrances allow for free and safe passage, attracting tourists throughout the year.
The Little Church Cave is freely accessible and is a popular stop on hiking trails leading through the Josefov Valley. It offers an excellent opportunity to explore the Karst underground without the need for specialized equipment.
Church of the Virgin Mary
- Křtiny 72, 679 05 Křtiny
- www.pmkrtiny.cz
- pmkrtiny@gmail.com
- +420 731 603 488
Pilgrimage Church of the Name of the Virgin Mary in Křtiny: Santini’s Baroque Gem of the Moravian Karst
Visit the Pilgrimage Church of the Name of the Virgin Mary in Křtiny, widely regarded as one of the most significant works of Baroque architecture in the Czech Republic and often referred to as the "Pearl of Moravia." This monumental complex, majestically situated on the edge of the Moravian Karst Protected Landscape Area, has been a major Marian pilgrimage site for centuries, with traditions dating back to the 13th century. The church's current, awe-inspiring form, however, is linked to the genius of the architect Jan Santini Aichel.
Santini’s Architectural Masterpiece: Construction took place between 1718 and 1750. Santini masterfully applied the principles of Dynamic Baroque in combination with his signature Baroque Gothic style. The structure is unique for its central, complex, and harmonious composition, created by three interconnected domed spaces. This mystical symbolism and dynamic geometry lend the church an unparalleled atmosphere, with the largest dome reaching a height of 45 meters.
The Complex and History: The extensive pilgrimage area also includes cloisters (ambits) and an elegant prelature, which together with the church form one of the most integrated Baroque complexes in the country. Křtiny, located in the scenic landscape of the Drahany Highlands, is an ideal destination for hiking and cultural exploration. Whether you seek a spiritual experience at this pilgrimage site or wish to admire a crowning work by the Baroque architect Santini, the church in Křtiny is a must-see among the most beautiful buildings in the Czech Republic.
Křtiny Castle
- Křtiny 1, 679 05 Křtiny
- www.zamek-krtiny.cz
- recepce@zamek-krtiny.cz
- +420 724 946 162
Křtiny Castle: Baroque Residence for the Provost, Home to the Forest Enterprise, and Elegance by Santini
Křtiny Castle is a fascinating architectural structure that is not a typical noble residence, but rather an elegant and generously conceived Baroque residence. Historically, it served as the seat for the abbot or provost who administered the famous Pilgrimage Church of the Name of the Virgin Mary. The castle is thus an inseparable component of the monumental religious complex, designed by the ingenious architect Jan Santini Aichel in the early 18th century.
The construction of the residence, carried out concurrently with the church, perfectly demonstrates Santini’s mastery of Dynamic Baroque. The castle, the church, and the cloisters form a harmonious and integrated architectural ensemble, which is today protected as a National Cultural Monument. The beautiful castle interiors and adjacent gardens offer visitors a tranquil retreat while hiking in the Moravian Karst.
Today, Křtiny Castle plays a key role in forestry and hospitality. It serves as the headquarters for the School Forest Enterprise Masaryk Forest Křtiny, which is part of the Faculty of Forestry and Wood Technology of Mendel University. Nevertheless, its historical premises are fully accessible to the public. The castle operates as a popular conference center and hotel accommodation facility, but it is primarily sought after as a romantic venue for weddings and social events. When visiting Křtiny, exploring the castle and its Baroque elegance is the perfect complement to admiring Santini’s famous sanctuary.
Where to eat and sleep?
Restaurants and accommodation along the trail.
Spiritual Centre Vranov u Brna
- Vranov 7, 664 32 Vranov u Brna
- dc-vranov.cz
- dc-vranov@katolik.cz
- +420 604 509 455
Pension and restaurant in Grunta
- Vranov 70, 664 32 Vranov
- www.penzionnagrunte.cz
- nagrunte@vranov.cz
- +420 736 484 530
Hotel Pod Horkou
- Pod Horkou 325/5, 679 04 Adamov
- www.podhorkou.cz
- hotel@podhorkou.cz
- +420 516 446 329
Pension At the Stone Wheel
- Josefovská, 679 04 Adamov
- www.ukamennehokola.cz
- penzion@ukamennehokola.cz
- +420 516 446 321
EVC Švýcárna
- Josefovská 459 679 04 Adamov
- svycarna.eu
- evc.svycarna@centrum.cz
- +420 603 375 481
Křtiny Castle
- Křtiny 1, 679 05 Křtiny
- www.zamek-krtiny.cz
- recepce@zamek-krtiny.cz
- +420 724 946 162
Pension Old Brewery
- Křtiny 41, 679 05
- www.penzionkrtiny.cz
- info@penzionkrtiny.cz
- +420 776 592 239
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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