Where to go on a trip Východní Morava

Natural monument with fossil findings in the Zlín Region

Kurovický lom, situated in the Zlín Region, is a former limestone quarry covering an area of approximately 1.5 hectares, which is now protected as a natural monument. The quarry is significant for its geological and paleontological findings, particularly for its unique examples of Jurassic sediments and the abundant occurrence of marine animal fossils. A smaller body of water has also formed here, serving as an important biotope for amphibians and dragonflies. The site is important for scientific research and education.

Access

Kurovický lom is located south of the village of Kurovice. Access by car is possible directly to the edge of the quarry via a local road, with limited-capacity free parking available. The nearest bus stop, Kurovice, is approximately 1 km away on foot. The nearest railway station, Hulín (line 330), is about 5 km away. Access to the quarry viewpoint is year-round and unrestricted, although entry into the quarry itself is limited for safety reasons.

What to see

In the immediate vicinity of Kurovický lom, visitors may explore the historic town of Kroměříž with the Arcibiskupský zámek and the extensive Květná zahrada and Podzámecká zahrada, which are on the UNESCO list. It is also possible to visit the town of Holešov with Zámek Holešov and a popular rope centre. Another point of interest is the Rozhledna Hostýn near the village of Bystřice pod Hostýnem, which offers a panoramic view of the Hostýnské vrchy.

Visit a place with a tradition spanning more than a century, where the history of thoroughbred breeding was written.

Hřebčín Napajedla is located in the town of the same name, Napajedla, in the Zlínský kraj (Zlín Region). It was founded in 1886 by Aristid Baltazzi and to this day remains one of the most significant centres for racehorse breeding in Central Europe. The stud farm complex is known for its characteristic brick architecture with white decorative elements, surrounded by extensive pastures. This place is deeply connected with the tradition of breeding horses that have achieved and continue to achieve success in prestigious races both at home and abroad.

What Can Be Found Here

Within the stud farm complex, visitors can admire historical stables used for housing breeding mares and stallions. During the season, mothers with foals graze in the adjacent pastures, creating a peaceful and picturesque scenery. The stud farm also includes an indoor riding arena and spaces used for horse training. Visitors can view the exteriors of the buildings, which are heritage-listed and document the high standard of agricultural architecture from the late 19th century. As part of organised tours, visitors learn fascinating facts about the history of breeding and the successes of the local progeny.

Who Is the Location Suitable For?

The location is an excellent choice for lovers of horses, nature, and historical architecture. Families with children will enjoy the sight of animals in their natural environment and the peaceful atmosphere of the complex. The site will also appeal to photographers and those interested in regional history who are looking for authentic monuments of the Moravian countryside. Thanks to the flat terrain, the complex is also accessible to senior citizens and persons with reduced mobility. It is believed that a visit to this traditional stud farm will be a rewarding experience for visitors.

What Can Be Visited in the Surroundings?

Right in the town of Napajedla, visitors can explore the Baroque Zámek Napajedla (Napajedla Chateau) or the town museum with an exhibition on the town's history. Just a few kilometres away lies the Pahrbek recreational area by the oxbow lake of the Morava River, ideal for walking or cycling. Lovers of footwear and modern architecture should not miss a visit to the nearby city of Zlín with Baťa's Skyscraper and the footwear museum. From there, it is only a short distance to the ZOO Lešná zoological garden, which ranks among the most beautiful in the Czech Republic.

Do you know which attraction in Moravia is among the most visited? It is ZOO Zlín, sometimes also referred to as ZOO Lešná due to the Zámek Lešná of the same name, which is part of the garden. It is visited by more than 600,000 people annually. It is located about 10 kilometres from Zlín.

The original garden was founded by Tomáš Baťa as early as 1930 and has undergone several renovations and expansions in the following years. At present, it keeps over 200 species of animals. ZOO Zlín is the only one in the Czech Republic that can boast the breeding of the kiwi bird. A botanical garden is also part of the premises. Visitors also have the opportunity to enter the emu ostrich and kangaroo exhibit directly.

ZOO Zlín is divided into several sections according to continents. In the section called Afrika, very popular animals dominate, such as elephants, rhinoceroses, or lions. The Etiopie exhibit, with its typical African village and smaller African animals such as storks, cranes, baboons, or meerkats, is also part of it. The ingenious design down to the smallest detail will give visitors the feeling of having been truly transported to Africa.

Another represented continent is Asia. Here, visitors may encounter the Hala - Bala exhibit, named after the reserves in southern Thailand. Malayan tapirs or gibbons, as well as pelicans or geese, can be found here. In other enclosures of the Asian section, visitors will see pandas, tigers, bears, or gaurs. The Mu - Shin garden, which is the largest Japanese garden in the Czech Republic, or a Buddhist corner with a statue of Buddha and other artefacts, is also part of the exhibit.

In the Austrálie section, the aforementioned kiwi bird and several other aviaries with Australian birds can be found. There is also a walk-through kangaroo and emu exhibit called Stezka běžce Emu. ZOO Zlín is the only European zoo that also breeds New Guinea singing dogs.

And then, visitors move on to America. Interesting animal species are represented here as well. Would you like to see an anteater, colourful macaws, or capybaras? Are you interested in what a squirrel monkey, saki, or curassow looks like? This section will fulfil all your wishes and answer all your questions. A popular exhibit is also the pool with sea lions, which can be observed even underwater. Various species of cacti can be admired in the Mexiko exhibit.

ZOO Zlín is also significant in terms of nature conservation and the rescue of endangered animal species. Thanks to its activities, more than a dozen vultures bred here have been released into the wild. From contributions from visitors, the zoo also supports the protection of white rhinoceroses or white-bellied herons.

The zoological garden includes a large number of refreshments, souvenir shops, and the necessary sanitary facilities. During the visit, it is recommended not to miss Zámek Lešná from the end of the 18th century, which will certainly enchant visitors with its fairytale appearance. And once all the exhibits that ZOO Zlín offers have been explored, visitors are invited to head out for a tour of the city itself. Surely, something captivating will be found there as well.

However, not only Zlín itself, but the entire Zlínsko region is ideal for spending free time or a holiday throughout the year. It is important to find suitable accommodation near ZOO Zlín, or in the wider surroundings, and take the right group of people on the trip. Východní Morava truly offers many places worth visiting. Using our search agent, a cosy guesthouse or a comfortable hotel, a cottage in seclusion, or private accommodation can be found in the Zlínsko region. It is entirely up to you. And then, nothing stands in the way of setting off towards new adventures.

Ski centre directly in the town for beginners and families

Svah Zlín, also known as the J. Šperky area, is located directly in the centre of the town of Zlín at the address Nám. T. G. Masaryka 5144, in the area behind the Dům umění. It offers simple yet modernly equipped winter activities, primarily for local residents, children, and beginner skiers, with good accessibility and an urban character.

The area is features one main ski slope approximately 250 metres in length with a vertical drop of approximately 46 metres. For the youngest visitors, two Sun Kid conveyor belts are available, with lengths of approximately 52 metres and 102 metres. The area is equipped with an artificial snowmaking system and night lighting, which allows for evening skiing. The facility also includes a ski school, equipment rental, professional service (e.g., Montana), and refreshment facilities, including the Igloo bar. In the snowpark, obstacles such as boxes, rainbow, rails, and barrel jumps can be found.

How to get there

Svah Zlín is situated directly in the town's built-up area, roughly 100 metres behind the Dům umění in the Barabáš locality. Access by car is possible via local roads from náměstí T. G. Masaryka towards the area. Parking is provided in the immediate vicinity. Public transport is convenient: the area is accessible by public transport directly from Zlín, and there are connections from the town centre, including a school ski bus; the distance from the Zlín railway station is approximately 1 km.

What you can discover in the surroundings

In the surroundings of Svah Zlín, several options for trips and exploring the region are available. Pedestrians can use the green tourist trails that lead from the town centre towards the higher elevations in the vicinity (e.g., towards Barabáš or the adjacent forest areas). Other options include tours of the architecture of Zlín (e.g., Baťovy objekty, vila T. G. Masaryka), walks along the Dřevnice river, or trips to well-known places in the surrounding nature.

This slope thus represents a comfortable and accessible choice for winter sports directly in the town, ideal for beginners, families, and school groups.

Baroque Jewel Among Flowers, Sculptures and Labyrinths

Květná zahrada, historically known as Libosad, is an early Baroque park dating from 1665–1675, established by Bishop Karl II of Liechtenstein-Kastelkorn of Olomouc. The project was created according to the designs of Italian architects Filiberto Lucchese and Giovanni Pietro Tencalla and represents a unique combination of the French and Italian styles. Since 1998, it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage list, together with Podzámecká zahrada and the Archbishop's Chateau in Kroměříž. The garden is accessible to the public year-round, during daytime hours, free of charge.

Architectural Detail and a Floral Symphony in Every Season

Visitors are invited to be enchanted by a place where masterful architecture merges with a magnificent floral symphony in every season. The garden spans a generous area of approximately 300 x 485 m and is designed as a rectangular layout featuring spaces of elegantly composed greenery that blend into labyrinths and fountains.

In the central part stands the impressive octagonal Rotunda with rich frescoes and intricate decoration, while inside it conceals a unique Foucault's pendulum, which symbolically demonstrates the rotation of the Earth. A 244 m long colonnade is lined with up to 44 statues of ancient gods and prominent figures, making it feel like a true gallery in the open landscape. The geometric parterre garden is perfectly complemented by labyrinths, fountains, water features, a conical hedge, and the popular Strawberry Hills. Indeed, the entire place is designed as a living Baroque painting. On the sides of the Courtyard of Honour, classic tropical and cold greenhouses await visitors, where interesting subtropical and tropical plants can be viewed directly at the entrance to the garden.

General Information for Your Visit

This enchanting garden is an ideal place for families with children, who can fully enjoy the playful labyrinths, refreshing fountains, and captivating artistic elements in the landscape. Likewise, it will delight school groups and lovers of historical garden architecture who wish to discover the secrets of the Baroque and botany, as well as individuals, couples, and seniors seeking an oasis of peace for a relaxing stroll among artistic sculptures and picturesque perennial raised beds.

Barrier-free access is available. Entry with a dog is permitted on a leash. The average duration of a visit is about 60 minutes, which is more than sufficient to fully enjoy the rotunda, colonnade, parterres, and free movement in the labyrinth.

How to Get Here and What You Will Find Here

Květná zahrada is located west of the historical centre of Kroměříž, not far from Podzámecká zahrada. If traveling by car, parking is possible in the zone near the Archbishop's Chateau, from where the garden is within a pleasant walking distance. Public transport can also be used to the Kroměříž centre stop, from where clearly marked paths will guide visitors to the garden.

Right on-site, benches, pleasant shaded seating areas near the parterre, and various interesting exhibition installations await visitors to enrich their visit during the main season. In the immediate vicinity, a wide selection of cafes, restaurants, and pleasant spots to sit under the chateau's greenery can additionally be found, perfectly rounding off the atmosphere of the trip.

Květná zahrada in Kroměříž is a unique Baroque project combining art, botany, and historical exterior architecture. A place that attracts lovers of gardens, history, and peace. Free of charge, accessible to everyone.

In the beautiful Moravian town of Luhačovice, you will find the fourth-largest spa in the Czech Republic – Lázně Luhačovice. The town is located in the Zlín district, in the Zlínský kraj. Like all spa towns, it owes its fame to natural mineral springs, of which a total of 6 flow in Luhačovice. In addition to these, there are dozens of artificially drilled ones. Certainly, the most famous spring that flows in the local colonnade is Vincentka. It is of marine origin and has a whole range of healing effects.

And how did Vincentka actually originate? In 1590, when the town was acquired by the Bartodějský z Bartoděj family, the Bublavý pramen flowed here, now known as Amandka. It was not until about a hundred years later that the prominent Czech physicist and physician Jan Ferdinand Hertod z Todtenfeldu issued a written declaration on the chemical composition of the local water and its significant healing effects. In 1972, the name Vincentka appeared for the first time. Not only in spa treatment but also in ordinary households, Vincentka is used for inhalation and drinking cures in the treatment of respiratory tract issues, vocal cords, or stomach problems.

The founding of Lázně Luhačovice is attributed to the noble Serényi family. It was the then-count Vincent who, at the end of the 18th century, had the first medical and accommodation facilities built, which were subsequently further expanded by count Jan in the first half of the 19th century. It was he who gave names to all the then-known springs after the members of his family.

Lázně Luhačovice are among the top and globally recognised spa centres. They primarily treat respiratory diseases, and they also achieve very good results in the treatment of childhood asthma. Sinusitis, chronic and allergic rhinitis, as well as convalescence after chest surgery – they are prepared to help you with everything here. The local healing springs, in combination with climatotherapy, rehabilitation, and other modern medical methods, contribute step by step to your healing and the removal of all ailments.

The spa operators strive to enrich longer treatment programmes throughout the year. You may visit various cultural performances by leading Czech artists and singers or go dancing to live music. Sports activities such as bowling, squash, a tennis court, or a fitness centre are also at your disposal. Subsequently, you may relax in one of the swimming pools.

And if you wish to venture beyond the spa gates and discover the town and its surroundings from a different perspective, we have several tips for you. You should certainly not miss a walk to the Luhačovická přehrada. Nordic walking has become very popular, especially recently, so you will encounter groups of enthusiastic athletes of all age categories.

If you prefer historical monuments, the zámek Luhačovice is ideal for you. The original Baroque noble palace is now partly the seat of a local art school, and the remaining part is inhabited by descendants of the original owners. Or you may just set off into the town, wander through the well-maintained colonnades, picturesque streets, and beautiful parks. Everyone will find something they enjoy in Luhačovice.

Has our story caught your interest? Do you have someone in your family who constantly struggles with respiratory tract inflammation? Why not set off for a stay in Luhačovice? Choose a date, plan your activities, and you may set off. We will be happy to help you select suitable accommodation near Lázně Luhačovice on our portal, or you may use our search agent, which will make your search easier.

Refreshment in clear water amidst the gravel pits of Ostrožská Nová Ves

This natural swimming area is located in the municipality of Ostrožská Nová Ves in the Zlín Region, right in the heart of Moravian Slovácko. The complex was created on the site of a mined gravel pit and is known for its high water quality, which is ensured by natural filtration through the sandy subsoil. In addition to swimming, the location also offers extensive facilities for sports and camping in a natural environment. The entire complex is set in a landscape with views of the surrounding ridges of the Bílé Karpaty and the Chřiby mountains. For every visitor, this location represents a functional stop for summer relaxation combined with discovering the traditions of the region.

What can be found here?

The main attraction is the sandy and grassy beaches that line the shores of the lake. The water surface offers space for swimming and water sports, with a rental shop for paddle boats and small boats available. The complex includes sports fields for beach volleyball, football tennis, and an area for water attractions and seasonal sports features. For children, slides, playgrounds, and play features are prepared directly on the beach. Catering is provided by several buffets and a restaurant with an outdoor terrace. The complex also features a campsite that allows accommodation in cabins or in visitors' own tents and caravans.

Who is the place suitable for?

Thanks to the gradual entry into the water and the play features, the complex is ideal for families with children. The location is frequently sought after by athletes and young people due to the range of sports fields and water activities. The swimming area is also suitable for cyclists passing through along routes leading across Slovácko. Given the quiet environment and clean water, the location is also popular among seniors. For everyone looking for a combination of natural swimming and comprehensive services, Albatros offers corresponding conditions.

What can be visited in the surroundings?

Within close reach is the Letecké muzeum Kunovice, which offers tours of historical aircraft. Visitors may also tour the royal town of Uherské Hradiště with its monuments and exhibitions of the Slovácké muzeum. Approximately 15 kilometres away lies the Baroque Zámek Buchlovice with its well-known castle garden. For lovers of views, the Maják lookout tower in the municipality of Staré Mesto is available. An interesting destination is also Buchlov Castle, which dominates the surrounding landscape of the Chřiby mountain range.

Architectural pearl of Valašsko

Rozhledna Vartovna is an architecturally exceptional structure towering on the hill of the same name (651 metres above sea level) in the Hostýnské vrchy hills, not far from the municipality of Liptál in the Zlín Region. This modern tower, officially opened in 2009, stands thirty-seven metres tall and features an unconventional triangular ground plan with radial ends, giving it a futuristic appearance. Two hundred and thirteen steps lead to the viewing platform situated at a height of thirty-five metres. Vartovna offers a circular view of the Vsetín region, the Vizovické vrchy hills, and the Hostýnské vrchy hills, while Malá Fatra can even be seen in good conditions.

Access

The lookout tower can be reached by car, with parking available at Sedlo pod Vartovnou, where a paid car park is located. From there, visitors must ascend to the summit on foot along a gentle path approximately 1.5 kilometres in long. The lookout tower is most frequently accessed via the yellow tourist trail from the municipality of Liptál, which leads through the forest and is approximately three kilometres long. Another option is the red tourist route from the municipality of Seninka.

What is worth discovering

In the vicinity lies the historic town of Vsetín, where visiting Zámek Vsetín with the Muzeum Valašska is recommended. Further along into the region stands the Hrad Lukov castle ruin, which is one of the most extensive in Moravia. For lovers of history and sacred architecture, the Hostýn pilgrimage site with the Bazilika Nanebevzetí Panny Marie is crucial. A wonderful trip with children is offered by the ZOO a Zámek Lešná, located not far from Zlín.

Relaxation, water, and well-being in the heart of the Valašsko region

Mestské kúpele Vsetín is a modern water and relaxation complex that offers an ideal environment for both rest and an active stay. Within the premises, visitors will find indoor pools, a toboggan, saunas, and outdoor swimming during the summer season, all with comfortable facilities.

What the spa offers you

The spa is an ideal place for active rest as well as deep relaxation. An indoor swimming pool is available, suitable for both fitness swimming and casual water fun. To perfectly warm up the body and relax the mind, visitors may use the relaxation pool or a pleasant whirlpool. The youngest visitors will also find something for themselves, as a children's pool with a water mushroom and a safe paddling area are prepared for them. Adrenaline lovers will certainly appreciate the 98-metre-long toboggan with a splash pool. If you desire regeneration, visit our sauna section, where you will find both Finnish and steam saunas, a cooling plunge pool, a quiet relaxation zone, and an outdoor terrace for fresh air.

For whom the spa is intended

The spa is perfect for families with children who are looking for diverse entertainment and a safe environment for water games. It is a perfect choice for anyone wishing to cleverly combine exercise with subsequent relaxation, whether you prefer brisk swimming or an afternoon of wellness. The spa represents a sought-after destination for visitors from the wide surroundings who need to recharge their batteries during the work week or enjoy a pleasant afternoon full of well-being.

How to get here and what to discover in the surroundings

The complex is located at the address Jiráskova 340, Vsetín. It is easily accessible by car and public transport; parking is possible in the vicinity. In the surrounding area, you can visit Valašsko trails, cycle routes, enjoy nature walks, and taste regional cuisine in local restaurants.

Your place for water, relaxation, and rediscovering well-being

Come to recharge your energy and relax both mind and body. Mestské kúpele Vsetín invite you to enjoy water fun, rest, and well-being for everyone.

A water area designated for summer recreation and sports activities in the natural environment of the Beskydy mountains.

The Přírodní koupaliště Na Stanoch natural swimming pool, also known as Kačák, is located in the village of Nový Hrozenkov in the Vsetín district. This reservoir was created following gravel-sand extraction and today serves as a significant recreational centre in the valley of the Vsetínská Bečva river. The location is characterised by crystal-clear water and the scenery of the surrounding mountains of the Chráněná krajinná oblast Beskydy. For every visitor, this complex represents a functional combination of natural swimming and modern sports facilities. During the summer season, the area is a popular destination for both local residents and tourists visiting the region.

What can you find here?

The complex offers extensive grassy and pebbled beaches that line the shores of the reservoir with gradual entry into the water. A unique feature is the Acrobat Park, which is used for training and exhibitions of ski and snowboard jumps into the water. The sports facilities are complemented by a beach volleyball court, areas for foot tennis, and a children's playground with play elements. Visitors may utilise the services of a sports equipment rental shop, which offers paddleboards and other gear. Dining is provided by several refreshment stalls and a restaurant with outdoor seating. Modernised sanitary facilities, showers, and changing rooms are also part of the complex.

For whom is the place suitable?

Thanks to the clean water and play zones, the location is ideal for families with children. The complex is regularly visited by athletes and adrenaline lovers, especially due to the facilities for acrobatic jumps. The site is an important stop for cyclists passing through the Bečva valley and for tourists seeking refreshment after hikes in the Beskydy mountains. Due to the quiet environment and good accessibility, the swimming pool is also suitable for seniors.

What can you visit in the surroundings?

In the village of Nový Hrozenkov, one can find the Památník Antonína Strnadla with an exhibition of folk architecture. Approximately 7 km away lies Velké Karlovice, where you can visit the Karlovské muzeum and the historical wooden church. The Miloňová lookout tower rises above the valley and is accessible via hiking trails. In the neighbouring town of Karolinka, you will find the Sklářské muzeum and the Stanovnice water reservoir. For lovers of mountain hiking, the Javorníky mountain ridge with the Kohútka peak is within a 10 km range.

Rožnovské koupaliště is a sports facility in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm, owned by the town and operated since the summer of 2000. The town also owns an indoor swimming pool (in operation since August 1994), which is located approximately 3 km from the outdoor swimming pool.

The swimming pool complex is open from June to August (depending on the weather) and offers several pools for visitors. The irregular-shaped recreational pool (depth 1.10 – 1.30 m) is equipped with various attractions (a 10 m long water slide, a wild river, a swinging pool, a water cup) as well as relaxation elements (air massage beds, massage jets, water cannons, a water spout, and a floor massage bubble). The longest pool is the 50-metre pool (concrete with a blue coating, width 20 m, depth 0.90 – 1.40 m), where visitors can enjoy additional attractions – a water banana and a water trampoline). Another pool (tiled, 25 x 20 m, depth 1.20 – 1.80 m) is designed for swimmers and has eight swimming lanes. A children's paddling pool is reserved for the youngest children under 6 years of age. None of the pools are heated; the temperature depends on the weather and the sun.

However, swimming is not the only entertainment available at the swimming pool complex in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm. Visitors can play various ball games here, including beach volleyball, streetball, and foot tennis; Russian skittles, table tennis, and badminton are also prepared for visitors. By the paddling pool, there is also a children's playground. Changing rooms and sanitary facilities are a matter of course. Free WiFi internet access is available throughout the Rožnovské koupaliště complex.

In Rožnov, an indoor swimming pool with a swimming pool, a children's pool, a water slide, and a steam bath is also available year-round. If the swimming pool and indoor pool are not enough for entertainment, visitors may also enjoy an adrenaline park. Conversely, beer spas are a great option for relaxation in the town. However, the town's greatest pride is clearly the Valašské muzeum v přírodě, the largest open-air museum in Central Europe, which introduces visitors to folk customs, art, and entertainment.

Finding accommodation near the swimming pool in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm should be perfectly easy, as the town is a popular holiday destination and is therefore well-equipped for tourists. The widest selection can be found if you are looking for apartments. However, cottages, chalets, and guesthouses with a family atmosphere are also available. The town and its residents also think of budget-conscious tourists, so campsites and private accommodation can also be found here. Come and spend a few days in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm and treat yourself to the opportunity to discover Valašsko, its nature, traditions, and culture!

The Vodní nádrž Karolinka can be found in the south of the town of the same name, in forested hilly terrain between the Vsetínské vrchy and Javorníky mountain ranges. It lies on the Velká Stanovnice river. For this reason, this area is sometimes also referred to as the Vodní nádrž Stanovnice. The town of Karolinka is interesting not only because of this reservoir, but tourists are also attracted by the local Skiareál Karolinka or the Valašské národní divadlo. It is certainly among the frequent destinations for travellers within the Vsetín district and the entire Zlínský kraj.

Construction of the dam began in June 1977 and was completed in 1985. Two years later, it was put into permanent operation. During the filling of the dam, several predominantly agricultural homesteads were flooded. These residents moved into several apartment buildings and family houses in Karolinka that were built for this purpose.

The main task of the Vodní nádrž Karolinka is to ensure a supply of drinking water for the inhabitants of the Vsetín, Klobouky, Valašsko, and Zlín regions, as well as to regulate the water flow of the river and protect the surroundings from potential floods. During warm and dry months, on the other hand, it serves to maintain at least the minimum flow.

The length of the Karolinka dam wall is 391.5 metres, its width is 5 metres, and its height above the riverbed is 35.5 metres. The water surface area is just under 51 hectares. In 1995, two turbine sets were installed at the bottom outlet closures, allowing for water extraction from three different depth levels in the reservoir, which enabled the construction of a small hydroelectric power plant.

In terms of water quality, the Vodní nádrž Karolinka is among the highest-quality reservoirs in the Morava river basin. This is mainly due to the purity of the Velká Stanovnice river, which rises directly on the slopes of the Javorníky. In the reservoir, the water neither overheats nor becomes polluted from the surroundings, as there are almost no villages or industrial or agricultural enterprises in its immediate vicinity. With its clear surface, it attracts people primarily in the summer for swimming and water sports. However, this is strictly prohibited due to the purpose of the dam.

Therefore, one should at least go for a walk around the water reservoir, which provides excellent living conditions for a large number of plants and animals. You can see various species of water birds, such as the mallard or the osprey. Among fish, graylings and pikes are represented. And if you are lucky, you may even encounter crayfish.

The easiest access to the Vodní nádrž Karolinka is by car, which you can park on the widened road shoulder by the dam wall. A marked cycle path or two hiking trails also lead nearby. You can follow these to reach other interesting places that Karolinka offers. In addition to the aforementioned ski resort and theatre, there is, for example, the Muzeum sklářství, which has had a rich history here since 1860. Other tourist routes will take you to further corners of the Chráněná krajinná oblast Beskydy.

If you plan to spend your holiday in this picturesque region, you will likely be looking for a place where you can relax after a day full of experiences and prepare for new adventures. Accommodation near the Vodní nádrž Karolinka is provided by cottages and chalets, picturesque log cabins, private accommodation, as well as high-quality apartments. A higher standard of lodging, including services, is offered by guesthouses and hotels. Conversely, a somewhat wilder but romantic type of accommodation is provided by campsites. Whatever you choose, we are sure that you will certainly enjoy your stay here.

On the upper reaches of the Rožnovská Bečva river, which flows through the Zlínský kraj, the Horní Bečva water reservoir was built during the Second World War. Although it is a relatively small dam in the village of Horní Bečva in the Vsetín district, over time it has gained the favour of a large number of tourists who spend their holidays domestically.

Construction of the Horní Bečva dam began as early as 1933, but it was not completed and put into operation until 1947. As is often the case with dams, the original intention was to prevent destructive floods in the Bečva river basin. Several similarly small reservoirs were planned for the area, but only the Bystřička dam was realised alongside Horní Bečva. An interesting fact is that a condition for the construction of the reservoir was the non-interruption of road traffic leading through the valley; therefore, the road first had to be diverted from the valley to the right slope of the future reservoir. The last reconstruction took place between 2005 and 2006, when Horní Bečva was drained.

When heading to the Horní Bečva waterworks, visitors should expect grassy beaches and a gradual sandy entry into the water. The maximum depth in the reservoir is around 7 metres, and the dam measures only 250 metres. If you are expecting crystal-clear water, you may be disappointed. The water in the Horní Bečva dam is naturally slightly turbid and tends to have a brownish-green colour. It is a popular spot for fishing, and there is also the possibility of engaging in water sports. Another advantage is the option of accommodation in the immediate vicinity of the dam.

If you wish to enjoy your holiday in peace, we recommend securing accommodation near the Horní Bečva water reservoir in advance. The best course of action is to check the offers of guesthouses, apartments, or campsites directly in the village of the same name. Larger groups will also find spacious cabins or cottages here, and even stylish dřevěnice (traditional wooden houses). Should it happen that everywhere is full during the peak season, the neighbouring Prostřední Bečva and Dolní Bečva, or perhaps Velké Karlovice, offer an equally varied range of accommodation. Regardless of your choice, your comfort is assured.

And now, we may look around the surroundings to see where else you might set off. If you are a dedicated nature lover and nothing attracts you more than peace and fresh air, take a trip to the Miloňová lookout tower or the Kněhyně – Čertův mlýn nature reserve. And if you have never been to Radhošť, you should stop by on your way past the Radegast statue. In unfavourable weather, you may visit, for example, the Muzeum sklářství Karolinka or the Valašské národní divadlo. And if you are heading to Severní Morava with children, they will surely be thrilled by a visit to the Tarzanie rope park in nearby Trojanovice. Simply choose your dates and accommodation. So, feel free to get started.

Since 2012, visitors have been able to admire views of the Valašsko region from the heights of the Miloňová Lookout Tower. It is located in the Zlín Region, in the Vsetín District near the town of Velké Karlovice. It was built at an altitude of 846 metres above sea level, and from it, visitors can see not only a large part of the Beskids, but also the Javorníky mountain range. A green tourist trail leads to the lookout tower, so visitors certainly cannot miss it. Visitors can also connect here to the yellow trail, which guides them along the ridges of the Vsetínské vrchy hills.

It is a hexagonal wooden lookout tower with a concrete base, designed by architect Antonín Závada, the author of the better-known project of the Jurkovičova rozhledna in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm. The Miloňová Lookout Tower rises to a height of 20 metres, while the roof is another four metres higher. The viewing platform is circular, so visitors will have a truly magnificent view in all directions. Visitors can set off here all year round, because thanks to its stable structure, adverse weather conditions do not bother the lookout tower. Furthermore, in fine weather, even children will enjoy the journey, as around the lookout tower they can walk a children's tourist trail named Hledej poklad na Galiku.

As the location of the Miloňová Lookout Tower implies, several tourist trails with attractive destinations are immediately available here for visitors. It is sufficient to book accommodation near the Miloňová Lookout Tower, and it does not matter whether it will be apartments, cottages, or a guesthouse. From any accommodation in the surrounding area, visitors can set off somewhere else every day. For example, Vsetín or Nový Hrozenkov can serve as a starting point for visitors. However, visitors can just as easily stay in Karolinka or Hovězí. Visitors should simply be careful on some tourist trails and take their identity card or passport with them, as the local trails often extend into Slovakia.

Once visitors have had enough of walking in the mountains, it will certainly come in handy to refresh themselves at the Velké Karlovice swimming pool. Conversely, if visitors have arrived during the winter season, they should certainly make use of one of the Beskid ski resorts, for example the Razula ski resort or Synot Kyčerka. At any time of the year, the Karlovské muzeum and the Muzeum sklářství Karolinka are worth a visit. Should visitors also desire culture, they are invited to check out the programme of the Valašské národní divadlo. Whatever visitors ultimately decide, they will thoroughly enjoy nature, entertainment, and knowledge here.