Brněnská přehrada
Should you visit Brno, it is highly recommended not to miss one of the natural beauties located on its northern outskirts, in the district of Bystrc, which extends as far as the nearby village of Veverská Bítýška. This is the Brněnská přehrada (Brno Reservoir), known in the local dialect, hantec, as Prýgl. It was constructed on the Svratka river between 1936 and 1940 as a source of electric power. The reservoir complex also includes the Kníničky hydroelectric power plant.
The reservoir originally served as a source of drinking water. Subsequently, Brno switched to a supply from the Vírská přehrada (Vír Reservoir), and thus, the Brněnská přehrada now serves primarily for recreation. Hotels and guesthouses are located along its shores, and the surrounding forests conceal a multitude of cottages as well as cycling and hiking trails. During the summer season, many people gather mushrooms here, or simply seek refuge from the hot rays of the sun.
Since 1946, boat transport has been operated under the auspices of the municipal transport company. Several excursion boats cruise the surface of the Brněnská přehrada, stopping on both banks. This offers a convenient way to travel quickly during a cycling trip, or perhaps a way to make an outing more exciting for children. Trips by boat are very popular during the season.
In the immediate vicinity of the water, visitors can find a number of playgrounds, relaxation zones, as well as boat and pedal boat rentals. Many local residents relax here in the summer after a demanding day at work in the shade of the trees, or burn off energy playing beach volleyball. The reservoir is easily accessible by car, by bicycle, or even by public transport.
There are many places and bays here suitable for swimming and water sports. Recently, paddleboarding and windsurfing have become very popular. It is only necessary to catch the right wind to be able to zip across the Brněnská přehrada from one side to the other. Other popular sports include canoeing, water skiing, and rowing. A yachting and rowing club also operates on the Brněnská přehrada.
Should you decide to explore the reservoir from the deck of an excursion boat, it is highly recommended not to miss hrad Veveří (Veveří Castle), which towers over the reservoir like a sentinel lighthouse and guardian of the waters. This allows visitors to combine relaxation by the water with a historical experience and hiking.
Every year before the summer, the Brněnská přehrada becomes the venue for the global fireworks festival Ignis Brunensis. The spectacular pyrotechnic show lasts for several evenings and is accompanied by music that carries across the entire Bystrc district. It is a beautiful experience and a very popular cultural event.
If you are not from the immediate vicinity, it is recommended to stay by the Brněnská přehrada for a few days to explore all of Brno's attractions and ensure nothing of importance is missed. It is not for nothing that Brno is considered one of the leading multicultural cities in Europe. Truly, many experiences await you here. Therefore, do not hesitate; book suitable accommodation by the Brněnská přehrada and come to see for yourselves.
