Top 10 Podyjí National Park Hiking Highlights

The hiking network in Podyjí is extensive and connects many unique sites. Most trails start near Znojmo or the village of Čížov. You can experience everything from steep climbs to flat riverside paths. Each route offers a different perspective on this protected wilderness.

Many paths also cross into the Austrian Thayatal National Park. This creates a truly international hiking experience. Remember to carry your passport if you plan to cross the border. The following list covers the must-see spots for any hiker visiting the area in 2026.

1. Name: Šobes Vineyard Type: viewpoint/nature Why go: It is one of the oldest and best vineyards in Europe. The views of the river loop are stunning. Best for: Wine lovers and photographers. Where: Near Podmolí village. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free to walk; wine tasting costs extra. Getting there: Hike the green trail from Podmolí. Tip: This is one of the most romantic getaways near Brno during sunset.
2. Name: Sealsfield’s Stone Type: viewpoint Why go: This massive rock formation offers a panoramic view of the Dyje canyon. It is named after a famous local writer. Best for: Panoramic photography. Where: South of Znojmo. Time: 1.5 hours from the nearest trailhead. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green trail from Popice. Tip: Bring binoculars to spot rare birds of prey.
3. Name: Hardegg Viewpoint Type: viewpoint Why go: You get a perfect view of the Austrian town of Hardegg and its castle. It is a peaceful spot for a break. Best for: Cross-border views. Where: Near Čížov village. Time: 1 hour from Čížov. Cost: Free. Getting there: Use the blue hiking trail from Čížov. Tip: The descent to the river from here is quite steep.
4. Name: Vranov nad Dyjí Castle Type: museum/indoor Why go: This Baroque castle sits on a high cliff above the river. It is a masterpiece of European architecture. Best for: History buffs and architecture fans. Where: Vranov nad Dyjí. Time: 2 hours for a tour. Cost: Moderate (approx. 200-300 CZK). Getting there: Drive or take a bus from Znojmo. Tip: Check out our full Vranov nad Dyjí castle trip guide for tour details.
5. Name: Čížov Iron Curtain Memorial Type: unique local experience Why go: See a preserved section of the original Iron Curtain. It includes a watchtower and barbed wire fences. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Edge of Čížov village. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the Čížov visitor center. Tip: Read the information boards to understand the local Cold War history.
6. Name: Nový Hrádek Ruins Type: history/nature Why go: Explore the ruins of two castles in one location. The site offers a unique view of the river meanders. Best for: Adventure seekers. Where: Near Lukov village. Time: 3 hours round trip. Cost: Small entry fee for the inner ruins. Getting there: Follow the green trail from Lukov. Tip: The ruins are closed during winter months.
7. Name: Ledové sluje (Ice Caves) Type: nature Why go: These are unique geological formations where ice remains late into the spring. The microclimate is very refreshing. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Near Vranov nad Dyjí. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the red trail from Vranov. Tip: You cannot enter the caves, but the trail above them is beautiful.
8. Name: Králův stolec (King's Seat) Type: viewpoint Why go: Legend says a Polish king watched his troops from this spot. It offers a great view of the Znojmo reservoir. Best for: Easy hiking. Where: West of Znojmo. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the yellow trail from Znojmo-Hradiště. Tip: This is a very popular spot for local dog walkers.
9. Name: Gránice Valley Type: nature/neighborhood Why go: A lush, shaded valley right next to the Znojmo city walls. It is perfect for a cool walk on hot days. Best for: Families with children. Where: Znojmo. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the Znojmo city center. Tip: There are several playgrounds and water features for kids.
10. Name: Braitava Forest Path Type: nature Why go: This trail takes you through the most preserved forest sections of the park. It is very quiet and peaceful. Best for: Solitude seekers. Where: Near Lesná village. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the windmill in Lesná. Tip: Look for the old border stones along the path.

Planning Your Podyjí National Park Hiking Trip

Reaching Podyjí from Brno is very straightforward. The easiest way is to take a train to Znojmo. Trains run frequently from the Brno Main Station. The journey takes about 90 minutes. You can check schedules on the DPMB website or the national rail portal.

Once in Znojmo, local buses can take you deeper into the park. Many hikers prefer to stay overnight in the region. There are excellent wellness hotels in South Moravia that cater to hikers. Znojmo itself offers many guest houses and boutique apartments. Booking in advance is recommended during the summer peak.

For your hike, wear sturdy shoes with good grip. The terrain can be slippery after rain. Bring plenty of water, as there are few shops inside the park. Most trails are well-marked with the standard Czech hiking sign system. It is a very safe area for solo travelers.

Best Seasons for Hiking in Podyjí

Spring is a wonderful time for Podyjí National Park hiking. The forest floor is covered in wildflowers. Temperatures are mild and perfect for long distances. You might see rare salamanders near the streams. Birdwatching is also at its peak during this season.

Summer brings vibrant greenery and warm weather. The Dyje River is popular for canoeing during this time. However, the trails can get quite hot in the afternoon. Autumn is perhaps the most popular season for visitors. The vineyards turn golden, and the wine harvest begins.

Winter offers a different kind of beauty. The park is very quiet and peaceful. Snow is common but rarely deep enough to block trails. Some historical sites like the castles will be closed. Always check the weather forecast before heading out in winter.