Cycling Trip through the Bobrava Valley

From a Mining Town into Nature

Our trip begins in Zastávka u Brna, a small town once famous for its black coal mining. Its mining past is still remembered by a mining cart displayed right next to the train station, and you can learn more about the former Rosice–Oslavany coalfield at the information center located by the station. The station itself is a curiosity: on one side, regular trains arrive, while on the other, narrow-gauge trains depart on summer weekends for Zbýšov, where both children and adults can enjoy the unique Museum of Industrial Railways (see also The Narrow-Gauge Railway Trip).

To reach the Bobrava Valley, follow the yellow-marked KČT cycling route from the station toward Rosice.

Rosice: Castle, Coffee, and Views

Before you dive into the peaceful nature and forest silence of the Bobrava Valley, take a short detour to Rosice. From the train station, ride up to Žerotín Square, where you’ll find an elegant Renaissance chateau with a beautiful courtyard. You can relax in the castle garden or stop for a break at the cozy café Jentaksi_peču on Palacký Square — homemade cakes, great coffee, and friendly service guaranteed.

If you’d like to enjoy a panoramic view of the landscape, it’s worth taking a short walk up the Linden Avenue Way of the Cross to the chapel with a viewpoint. It takes about half an hour, but it gives the trip a new dimension — one you won’t find later in the forested Bobrava Valley. Alternatively, you can ride up the hill on asphalt via Zbýšovská Street.

Bučín: The Only Big Hill on the Route

Radostice: Where the Best Part Begins

At Střelická bažinka, you’ll pass under a railway bridge, and after about a kilometer you’ll reach Radostice. This is where the truly picturesque Bobrava Valley begins. The small river winds its way between meadows and forests, and the path follows it closely for much of the way. For several kilometers, you’ll ride almost on the flat — far from civilization and nearly any signs of human presence.

The section between Radostice and Spálený Mlýn (the Burnt Mill) is now well maintained and easy to ride. The original trail has been covered with fine gravel, making for a smooth and comfortable ride all the way to Spálený Mlýn.

Spálený Mlýn: Romance on the Bobrava

It’s worth stopping at Spálený Mlýn (the Burnt Mill) to admire the old stone bridge, which local enthusiasts are gradually restoring to its original form from the late 18th century. This romantic spot, tucked deep in the woods, attracts both cyclists and families with children.

From here, the route becomes more technical, with several short climbs and descents along an unpaved trail. In dry weather, it’s a pleasant little adventure, but after rain, the path can quickly turn into a muddy trap. In such conditions, it’s best to wait for drier weather or choose an alternative route. After a few kilometers, the trail rejoins — for a few hundred meters — the only narrow road that crosses the entire valley.

Nový Mlýn and Bezruč’s “Labutinka”

After crossing the road, the route once again follows the Bobrava River, leading you past Nový Mlýn (the New Mill). According to local legend, the poet Petr Bezruč often came here to visit the miller’s daughter Fanynka, whom he lovingly called Labutinka (“Little Swan”) in his Silesian Songs.

Just a few dozen meters further, you’ll find a small refreshment stand called U Makové Panenky (“At the Poppy Doll”). It’s usually open on weekends — or whenever the owner feels like it. This is also where the Fairy-Tale Stream Trail (Stezka Pohádkový potok) begins, featuring charming wooden sculptures, a delightful attraction especially for families with children.

Želešice: Time for a Proper Meal

Not far beyond this crossroads, you’ll pass through the dusty grounds of the Želešice quarry, and a narrow road will lead you into Želešice — the first real opportunity since Rosice to enjoy a good meal and drink. Pivnice Třetí poločas (The Third Half Pub) and Hospůdka na hřišti (The Fieldside Inn) offer similar menus and a relaxed local atmosphere — you can’t go wrong with either. For something a bit more refined, try U Kulaté, a charming café and wine bar known for its excellent pastries and popular weekend brunches.

Beyond Želešice, the cycling route dives back into the forest. In dry weather, the unpaved but well-compacted path makes for a smooth and fast ride. After rain, however, it can turn into a slippery mud slide — in that case, it’s better to continue from Želešice directly to the Olympia shopping center by road.

An Unexpected Finale at Olympia

The final kilometers lead you through the outskirts of Brno, along paths you’d hardly expect to ride — narrow lanes, underpasses beneath the highway, railway corridors, and country tracks. When you suddenly emerge at the Olympia shopping center from such an unusual direction, you’ll feel as if you’ve arrived in a completely different world.

But the trip doesn’t end here. In the relaxation zone between the shopping center and the Svratka River, you can park your bike, refresh yourself with a cold drink, and recharge before the final stretch home. From here, it’s just a short ride to the main cycling path along the Svratka or Svitava rivers, which will take you comfortably back to the center of Brno.

Practical Tips – GOFROMBRNO

• The sections near Spálený Mlýn and beyond Želešice can become barely passable after rain. In such cases, it’s better to take the road detour.
• If you’re riding with children, don’t miss the Fairy-Tale Stream Trail (Stezka Pohádkový potok) near Nebovidy, with its wooden sculptures and playful stops.
• If you prefer a hill-free route, skip Bučín and stick to the Bobrava River valley. You’ll miss the peaceful forest section, but you’ll save energy for a longer ride through the valley.