Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Castles
Czech Republic
Southeast
Jihomoravský kraj

okres Brno-venkov

Top 7 Castles around okres Brno-venkov

Best castles around okres Brno-venkov are situated in a region characterized by its varied landscape, including the Svratka River and the Brno Dam. This area in Moravia offers a blend of historical sites and natural beauty, with castles often perched on rocky promontories. The district is known for its historical significance, featuring structures that date back to the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore a range of architectural styles and historical periods within a relatively compact area.

Best castles around okres Brno-venkov

  • The most popular castles is Veveří Castle, a castle situated on a rocky promontory above the Brno Dam. It is one of the largest and oldest castles in Moravia and the Czech Republic, with its first credible mention dating to the 13th century.
  • Another must-see spot is Vildenberk Castle Ruins, a historical site that was once one of the largest castles in Moravia during the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore the remaining parts of the masonry and surface tracks of this abandoned 14th-century castle.
  • Visitors also love Church of Saints Philip and James and Lelekovice Castle Ruins, a historical site with castle ruins first mentioned in 1358. Archaeological research in the 1980s uncovered significant parts of the walls and numerous artifacts.
  • okres Brno-venkov is known for its well-preserved castles, castle ruins, and historical sites. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, from large medieval fortresses to smaller, defunct structures.
  • The castles around okres Brno-venkov are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 90 upvotes and more than 130 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 21, 2026

Veveří Castle

Highlight • Castle

According to legend, the castle Veveří ("squirrel" in Czech) was founded by Přemyslid Duke Conrad of Brno in the middle of the 11th Century, then only as a hunting lodge. Nevertheless, the first credible recorded mention about the castle is from the years 1213 and 1222, when King Přemysl Otakar I used the fortified castle as a prison for rebellious peers. Initially, it was apparently a wooden residence situated near the church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary west of the present compound. In the 1220s a stone castle on the extremity of the rocky promontory behind a deep moat cut out of the rock started to grow. The so-called keep is the only structure which has remained well-preserved from this oldest building stage. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veve%C5%99%C3%AD_Castle

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

West Gate Hrad Veveri

Highlight • Castle

Beautiful castle complex, asphalt driveway.
More information: de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Veve%C5%99%C3%AD

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

The Brno Reservoir (in Prantl or Prygl [1]) or the Brno Reservoir, also obsolete the Kníničská Reservoir or the Kníničky Reservoir, is the largest body of water on the Svratka River. It was created by building a dam on the 56th river kilometer of Svratka and flooding the valley with the village of Kníničky. The dam used to serve as a water reservoir for Brno (now water from the Vírská dam and water from boreholes in Březová is used), for recreation and also as a source of electricity. Most of the dam is part of the Podkomorské lesy nature park.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

The first mention of the castle dates from 1358. Shortly afterwards, the castle was conquered by firearms Erhart of the Rocks. In the 1980s, excavation work was carried out here during archaeological research, thanks to which a large part of the walls was uncovered and a large number of objects, whether domestic, ceramic or war, were discovered. After the archeological works, the ruins of the castle were buried again in the ground.
Free entry

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Vildenberk Castle Ruins

Highlight • Castle

The defunct castle, which was one of the largest castles in Moravia in the Middle Ages. The castle was probably built in 1318 by Půt of Vildenberg. At the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries, the castle was sold out and abandoned. Only parts of the masonry, surface tracks and ditches have survived.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

The seat of the lords of Říčany and other owners was a fortress on a rocky promontory behind the village, where it is still called "Na Zámečku", on the maps the place is marked as Hradisko. The place where the fortress once stood is now wooded and you can still see the moat through which the hill is surrounded. There are also scary rumors associated with the place. On the oldest map of Moravia from 1575 and on the map of Comenius from 1627, Říčany is marked as a place with a fortress. In the years 1539,1540,1552 it is called desolate, in 1560 it was rebuilt.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Seelowitz Castle

Highlight • Castle

One of the best preserved hunting lodges in Europe with an extensive park and pheasantry.

Under Friedrich von Žerotín, the 14th-century water fort was converted into a castle in 1570. Philipp Ludwig von Sinzendorf had the castle redesigned in the Baroque style by Joseph Emanuel Fischer von Erlach between 1722 and 1728, and later it was surrounded by a castle park by the landscape gardener Charboniére. Owned by the Habsburgs since 1819, later the summer residence of the Czechoslovak President.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around okres Brno-venkov

Hiking around okres Brno-venkov

Road Cycling Routes around okres Brno-venkov

Cycling around okres Brno-venkov

Running Trails around okres Brno-venkov

MTB Trails around okres Brno-venkov

Gravel biking around okres Brno-venkov

Tips from the Community

meisterwerk
September 6, 2023, Veveří Castle

In the castle (entrance fee applies) there is a bistro (Bistro Winston), the castle tavern in the old forge and a wine bar with Moravian wines. https://www.hrad-veveri.cz/cs

Translated by Google

1

0

Marco
August 29, 2023, Veveří Castle

Easily reacheable from Brno, perfect starting point for a beautiful run along the Brno Lake, to get back to the city. Definitely worth a try! p.s. watch out since finding the initial path from the castle can be a little bit tricky but it was adventurous, at least for me :)

1

0

ChTh
October 27, 2022, Schloss Seelowitz

One of the best preserved hunting lodges in Europe with an extensive park and pheasantry. Under Friedrich von Žerotín, the 14th-century water fort was converted into a castle in 1570. Philipp Ludwig von Sinzendorf had the castle redesigned in the Baroque style by Joseph Emanuel Fischer von Erlach between 1722 and 1728, and later it was surrounded by a castle park by the landscape gardener Charboniére. Owned by the Habsburgs since 1819, later the summer residence of the Czechoslovak President.

Translated by Google

0

0

Large castle complex that dominates the reservoir.

Translated by Google

0

0

PinionRadlerJan
September 26, 2022, Veveří Castle

Beautiful castle complex, unfortunately not asphalted driveway from this side. More information: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Veve%C5%99%C3%AD

Translated by Google

0

0

Beautiful castle complex, asphalt driveway. More information: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Veve%C5%99%C3%AD

Translated by Google

1

0

The first mention of the castle dates from 1358. Shortly afterwards, the castle was conquered by firearms Erhart of the Rocks. In the 1980s, excavation work was carried out here during archaeological research, thanks to which a large part of the walls was uncovered and a large number of objects, whether domestic, ceramic or war, were discovered. After the archeological works, the ruins of the castle were buried again in the ground. Free entry

Translated by Google

3

0

The Brno Reservoir (in Prantl or Prygl [1]) or the Brno Reservoir, also obsolete the Kníničská Reservoir or the Kníničky Reservoir, is the largest body of water on the Svratka River. It was created by building a dam on the 56th river kilometer of Svratka and flooding the valley with the village of Kníničky. The dam used to serve as a water reservoir for Brno (now water from the Vírská dam and water from boreholes in Březová is used), for recreation and also as a source of electricity. Most of the dam is part of the Podkomorské lesy nature park.

Translated by Google

2

0

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there family-friendly castles to visit around okres Brno-venkov?

Yes, several castles in the region are suitable for families. Veveří Castle is a popular choice, offering a rich history and scenic surroundings by the Brno Dam. Seelowitz Castle is another family-friendly option, providing an engaging historical experience.

What historical castles can I explore in the okres Brno-venkov region?

The region is rich in historical castles. Veveří Castle, dating back to the 13th century, is one of the oldest and largest in Moravia. You can also visit the ruins of Vildenberk Castle, once a significant medieval fortress, or the Lelekovice Castle Ruins, where archaeological research has uncovered many artifacts.

Are there good viewpoints near the castles in okres Brno-venkov?

Absolutely. Veveří Castle itself offers stunning views, especially from the deck of cruise ships on the Brno Reservoir. There's also a dedicated highlight, View of Veveří Castle and Brno Reservoir, which provides excellent photographic opportunities of the castle and the surrounding lake. The Říčany Castle Ruins (Hradisko) also offer scenic vistas.

What outdoor activities can I do near the castles?

The area around the castles, particularly near Veveří Castle and the Brno Reservoir, is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes like the 'Veveří Castle – Brno Reservoir Dam loop'. There are also running trails and gravel biking routes that allow you to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Can I visit castle ruins in the okres Brno-venkov area?

Yes, the region features several intriguing castle ruins. You can explore the remaining masonry of Vildenberk Castle Ruins, which was one of Moravia's largest castles in the Middle Ages. The Lelekovice Castle Ruins, first mentioned in 1358, are also accessible, with archaeological findings from the 1980s. Additionally, the Říčany Castle Ruins (Hradisko) offer a historical site within a forest setting.

What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in okres Brno-venkov?

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The scenic location of Veveří Castle above the Brno Dam is a highlight, often enjoyed from boat cruises. The opportunity for beautiful runs and hikes along the Brno Lake, starting from the castle, is also frequently mentioned. The well-preserved nature of many sites and the rich history they represent are highly valued.

Are there any hidden gem castles or lesser-known historical sites worth visiting?

While Veveří Castle is well-known, the Vildenberk Castle Ruins offer a glimpse into a once-grand medieval fortress that is now less frequented. The Church of Saints Philip and James and Lelekovice Castle Ruins also provide a unique historical experience with free entry, revealing parts of walls and artifacts from past excavations.

What is the best time of year to visit the castles in okres Brno-venkov?

The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for visiting the castles. The weather is pleasant for exploring the outdoor grounds and ruins, and the natural scenery, especially around the Brno Dam and forested areas, is particularly beautiful. Summer also offers good conditions, especially for combining castle visits with activities on the Brno Reservoir.

Are there any castles that are easily accessible from Brno city center?

Veveří Castle is easily reachable from Brno, located about 12 kilometers northwest of the city center. It serves as a perfect starting point for exploring the Brno Lake area and is accessible by various means, including public transport and scenic boat trips on the reservoir.

Can I find cafes or restaurants near the castles?

Near popular sites like Veveří Castle, especially given its proximity to the Brno Reservoir, you can typically find refreshment options. The surrounding towns and villages also offer local eateries. It's advisable to check specific castle websites or local guides for up-to-date information on dining facilities directly at or very near the sites.

Are there any castles with guided tours available?

While the provided data doesn't specify guided tours for every highlight, major sites like Veveří Castle often offer guided tours to delve deeper into their extensive history and architecture. For the most accurate information on tour availability, schedules, and languages, it is best to consult the official website of the specific castle you plan to visit.

What is the architectural style of the castles in okres Brno-venkov?

The castles in okres Brno-venkov showcase a range of architectural styles, reflecting their long histories. Veveří Castle, for instance, has elements dating back to the 13th century, with subsequent additions and renovations over the centuries. Castle ruins like Vildenberk represent medieval fortress architecture, while others might feature later styles depending on their construction and reconstruction periods.

Most popular routes around okres Brno-venkov

Hiking around okres Brno-venkov

Most popular attractions around okres Brno-venkov

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around okres Brno-venkov:

okres BřeclavMoravaokres ZnojmoBlanskoHodonín

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do in Obora Holedná

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy