Top Experiences at Brno Reservoir and Veveří Castle

Exploring this area requires a mix of active travel and slow sightseeing. You can find many places to visit in Brno, but the reservoir is unique. It combines natural beauty with medieval architecture. Use the list below to plan your perfect day out.

• Best Overall: Veveří Castle
• Best for Families: Brno Zoo
• Best for Relaxation: Rakovec Beach
• Best for Views: The Reservoir Boat Trip

1. Name: Veveří Castle Type: sight Why go: This is one of the oldest and largest castle complexes in Moravia. It offers stunning views over the water. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Northern end of the reservoir. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate (grounds are cheaper than interiors). Getting there: Take the boat to the "Hrad Veveří" stop. Tip: Check the walking path from the reservoir for a scenic approach.
2. Name: Brno Reservoir Boat Trip Type: experience Why go: The electric boats are eco-friendly and offer a relaxing way to see the landscape. It is the most iconic way to travel between the dam and the castle. Best for: Couples and families. Where: Starts at Bystrc wharf. Time: 45-70 minutes one way. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: Tram 1 or 11 to Přístaviště stop. Tip: Look at the boat schedule and ticket prices before you arrive.
3. Name: Rakovec Beach Type: activity Why go: This is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming in the summer. It features grassy areas and easy water access. Best for: Summer relaxation. Where: Near the Bystrc side of the lake. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from the Přístaviště tram stop. Tip: Bring a picnic blanket as benches fill up fast on weekends.
4. Name: Sokolské koupaliště Type: activity Why go: This area is known for beach volleyball and active sports. It has several courts and refreshment stands. Best for: Active travelers and groups. Where: Left bank of the reservoir. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free for the area; court rentals vary. Getting there: Take the ferry or walk from Rakovec. Tip: This is a great spot to find local snacks like fried cheese.
5. Name: Kozí Horka Type: activity Why go: It offers a more quiet atmosphere compared to the main beaches. You can rent pedal boats or rowboats here. Best for: A quiet afternoon on the water. Where: Southern shore, past Rakovec. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low for area access; rentals are moderate. Getting there: Accessible by car or a long walk from the tram. Tip: This is one of the best spots to watch the sunset over the water.
6. Name: Rokle Viewpoint Type: sight Why go: This high point provides a panoramic view of the narrowest part of the reservoir. It is perfect for capturing the scale of the lake. Best for: Hikers and nature lovers. Where: Western bank near the middle of the lake. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow hiking trail from the boat stop. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the path can be steep and muddy.
7. Name: Podkomorské lesy Type: nature Why go: These vast forests surround the castle and reservoir. They are part of a protected natural park with many trails. Best for: Long hikes and mountain biking. Where: Surrounding the entire northern reservoir area. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Trails start directly from Veveří Castle. Tip: Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and wild boar.
8. Name: Bystrc Promenade Type: experience Why go: This is the social hub of the reservoir. It is lined with pubs, ice cream shops, and small stalls. Best for: People watching and dining. Where: Near the main dam and tram terminus. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low to moderate. Getting there: End of the tram line 1. Tip: Try the local "kofola" drink at one of the lakeside terraces.
9. Name: Chudčice Cascades Type: nature Why go: A series of small waterfalls and streams located in the woods near the lake. It is a hidden gem away from the main crowds. Best for: Seeking peace and quiet. Where: Near the village of Chudčice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Hike north from the castle along the red trail. Tip: Visit after a rain for the best water flow.
10. Name: Brno Zoo Type: sight Why go: While not on the water, it is very close to the reservoir entrance. It features a unique hillside layout with many exotic animals. Best for: Families with children. Where: Mniší hora hill in Bystrc. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Tram stop Zoologická zahrada. Tip: The zoo is very hilly, so be prepared for a workout.

Planning Your Brno Reservoir and Veveří Castle Visit

To enjoy your trip, you should understand the local transport system. The DPMB public transport operates both trams and boats. Trams run frequently from the city center to Bystrc. The boat season usually starts in late April and ends in October. Always check the weather before heading out on the water. High winds can sometimes cancel boat trips for safety.

Timing is also important for visiting the castle. Veveří Castle is often closed on Mondays, like many Czech monuments. The grounds are usually open longer than the interior exhibition rooms. If you enjoy crowds and events, visit during the Ignis Brunensis fireworks festival. If you prefer quiet, a weekday morning is your best choice. Most people arrive in the afternoon on weekends.

Food options are plentiful around the dam area. You will find many kiosks selling quick snacks and beer. For a sit-down meal, look for restaurants in the Bystrc neighborhood. Prices are generally lower than in the Brno city center. Many places only accept cash, so carry some Czech koruna. You can find more tips in our guide to taking the boat.

Nearby Attractions to Pair with Your Trip

If you have extra time, consider exploring more of Brno. You could visit the Spilberk Castle for a different historical perspective. It sits right in the city center and offers great views. Another option is to head into the city for dinner. The official tourism portal has many suggestions for dining. Brno is famous for its vibrant cafe and bar scene.

For those who love architecture, the city has much to offer. You might want to book tickets for the Villa Tugendhat in advance. It is a world-renowned functionalist masterpiece. If you prefer the outdoors, the reservoir area is large enough for multiple days. You can spend one day on the water and another hiking the woods. This flexibility makes it a top choice for any Brno itinerary.