Cycling in Napoleon’s Footsteps

Smooth Asphalt, Open Countryside, and Endless Views

That’s exactly what you can expect when riding the cycling routes connecting the villages of the Austerlitz battlefield, where in 1805 Napoleon triumphed in the Battle of the Three Emperors. The circuit takes you from the forests of the Moravian Karst through cozy local pubs and past tranquil ponds, all the way to the Peace Monument (Mohyla Míru).

A View over the Battlefield of the Three Emperors

The open countryside between Tvarožná and Sokolnice is now a paradise for cyclists — but on December 2, 1805, it was the site of the famous Battle of the Three Emperors. Here, Napoleon chose the perfect strategy and decisively defeated the combined Austrian and Russian armies on the fields near Slavkov (Austerlitz).

The first major stop reminding visitors of this pivotal moment in European history is the Žuráň Hill, from where Napoleon commanded his entire campaign. Beneath the shade of lime trees stands a granite monument with a relief map of the battlefield, showing the positions of the armies and the main directions of their attacks.

The Poetic Hill of Santon with Its Chapel

Not far from Žuráň, the gentle Santon Hill rises with a small white chapel crowning its summit. There’s no proper road leading up, but from Tvarožná, you can turn off along the yellow-marked trail toward the football field and push your bike up the final stretch of the footpath. From the chapel, a nearly panoramic view opens before you — of Brno, Žuráň, and the distant Peace Monument on the Pratecký Hill, which will be your next destination.

Tvarožná: The Site of the Famous Austerlitz Battle Reenactments

From Santon Hill, descend to the road near the well-known Rohlenka roadside inn, and soon you’ll reach Tvarožná. Every year at the end of November, this village comes alive with the large-scale reenactment of the Battle of Austerlitz — hundreds of enthusiasts in historical uniforms, along with horses and cannons, transform the area into a living battlefield.

On the village outskirts stands the Art Nouveau Kosmák Cross, shaded by a majestic wild service tree, one of the rarest trees in the Czech Republic. In the village square, a memorial with a cannon commemorates the famous events, and near the church you’ll find a modest monument to Václav Kosmák, a local priest and writer who has become an iconic figure of Tvarožná.

The Peace Monument – A Symbol of Victory and Reconciliation

From Tvarožná, you’ll race with (or against) the wind toward Blažovice. At the very entrance to the village stands a modest little house that once served as a blacksmith’s forge. From there, continue toward Prace along the “Napoleon Trail” cycle route, which follows classic country tracks. In wet weather, it’s better to take the longer road option, otherwise be ready for a bit of off-road adventure.

The long climb from Prace up Pratecký Hill is a true challenge — but every drop of sweat is well rewarded! At the summit stands the monumental Peace Monument (Mohyla míru). In the adjacent museum, with its new interactive exhibition, you can relive the events of the battle and climb the viewing platforms, offering a unique perspective of the memorial itself. The pleasant café right next to it is the perfect place for a well-deserved break.

Tip: The Peace Monument, built in 1910, is the very first memorial of reconciliation in Europe. The viewing platforms near the museum are designed to offer a closer look at the monument itself, not panoramic views of the surrounding landscape — as many visitors mistakenly believe. Access to the platforms is part of the guided tour of the new exhibition, which starts every hour, so make sure to allow enough time for your visit.

A Culinary Experience at the Farthest Point of the Loop

The descent into Sokolnice is pure euphoria — made even better by a stop at the Panský Brewery near the local chateau. With its craft beer and traditional Czech cuisine, it’s one of the gastronomic highlights of the entire route.

From here, a scenic bike path leads toward Kobylnice, following the edge of the chateau game park and passing a pond surrounded by expanses of perfectly trimmed English lawns grown for sale. The wooden piers and grassy banks invite you to pause for a short rest. If hunger strikes, stop by Pepíček’s Butchery, known for its authentic meat products and house-brewed draft beer. Those who prefer something more traditional will enjoy the local Sokol Hall restaurant.

A few kilometers further, another refreshment stop awaits at the confluence of the Říčka and Ponětovický streams — the cozy Maxipapi Bistro.

A Peaceful Return to Mariánské Valley

Following the Říčka Stream, you’ll arrive in Šlapanice, a town well worth a short stop. The local branch of the Brno Regional Museum offers a permanent exhibition along with various themed displays, many of them tailored for children. In the heart of the former castle park, you’ll also find the modern and welcoming Bistro Park, perfect for a relaxing break.

Beyond Šlapanice, the bike path winds closely along the stream — beneath sandstone cliffs and between gardens and cottages — leading you through Bedřichovice and Podolí. From there, you return to Zukal’s Mill. If you skipped it at the start, now’s the perfect time for a final stop. From here, it’s only a short ride back to Mariánské Valley, where the loop comes full circle.

GOFROMBRNO Tips

• You can join the route almost anywhere — ideally at the train stations in Šlapanice or Sokolnice, both easily accessible from Brno by train.
• In summer, pack your swimsuit — the pond near Kobylnice is a great spot to cool off.
• In early November, head to Tvarožná to experience the reenactment of the Battle of Austerlitz. Hundreds of enthusiasts in uniforms, along with horses and cannons, recreate the unique atmosphere of a historic military camp.
• However you ride the loop, don’t miss the culinary stops: Zukal’s Mill, the Panský Brewery in Sokolnice, Pepíček’s Butchery in Kobylnice, and Bistro Park in Šlapanice.