In Kroměříž, you can look forward to a wide range of experiences connected with nature, physical activity, and a healthy lifestyle. The very fact that the town is home to two vast historical gardens – the Chateau Garden (Podzámecká) and the Flower Garden (Květná) – along with numerous shady parks and ornamental flowerbeds, makes Kroměříž a truly healthy city. It’s the perfect place for a morning jog or a peaceful walk in a beautiful setting.
ONCE A CHAPEL, NOW A SCENIC VIEWPOINT
Just beyond Kroměříž, a gentle walk leads you to Barbořina Hill. Although this wooded hilltop stands only 265 metres above sea level, it offers one of the most beautiful views of the town and the surrounding landscape framed by the Upper Morava Valley and the Hostýn Hills. A walk through the forest park offers both movement and learning – the Chip the Squirrel nature trail, about 1 km long, introduces children to forest life through fun and interactive tasks. The area includes a viewing platform, covered gazebo with benches, slide, and most notably a sheltered fire pit where you can roast sausages. A new feature from last year is the handcrafted photo frame labelled Kroměříž – Closer to the Heart.
Why the name Barbořina? In 1690, Bishop Karl II of Liechtenstein-Castelcorn built a chapel here, dedicated to Saint Barbara, patron saint of towers, fortresses, miners, and protector against sudden death.
ŠLAJZA – RELAXATION & RUNNING LOOP
The Šlajza nature loop takes you from the historic heart of Kroměříž straight into a landscape of meadows and wetlands where grasshoppers chirp and birds sing overhead. This former oxbow of the Morava River has been expanded with new ponds, info boards, and various play, fitness, and educational elements. You’ll also find shelters, two fire pits, benches, bike stands, and bins. Thanks to this infrastructure, bivouacking is also allowed here.
A 1.5 km running track is part of the loop – athletes can stretch their legs and compare their results with others via a mobile app.
CYCLING CAMP BY KROMĚŘÍŽ’S LARGEST LAKE
On the eastern edge of Kroměříž lies Hrubý Pond, known locally as Bagrák – a former gravel quarry from the 1980s. After the heavy machinery left in 1994, the area was transformed into a natural bio-centre with a nearly 14-hectare lakethat now serves as a recreational spot. In summer, locals use Bagrák as a natural swimming area, although it’s officially at your own risk.
A 1.5 km educational trail circles the lake, complete with play elements, benches, info panels, and a children’s corner– perfect for a walk, run, or family outing. On the shore, you’ll find a cycling campsite run by the local yachting club, offering tent accommodation, modern sanitary facilities with hot water, wheelchair access, and nearby restaurant Na Hrázi and supermarket. You can also play tennis or Russian skittles, and bike service is available on request.
Right next to the campsite is a popular bike trail along the Morava River and a sports airfield.
