Planning Your Trip to Hády Quarry

Before you set off, you need to decide on your transport. Most locals use the efficient public transport system to reach the trailhead. You can check the latest schedules on the DPMB - Brno Public Transport website. The most popular starting point is Velká Klajdovka, which sits right at the edge of the nature reserve.

If you have more time, consider exploring other secret places in Brno before heading to the hills. The quarry area is large, so your starting point depends on your fitness level. Most trails are well-marked but can be steep in certain sections. Always check the weather forecast before leaving the city center.

Use this simple decision guide to plan your route:

• If you want the easiest walk: Take the bus to Velká Klajdovka and walk the flat upper path.
• If you want a workout: Start at the Akátky park and hike uphill through the forest.
• If you want photography: Head straight to the Růženin quarry floor for lake reflections.

How to Hike to Hády Quarry Brno: Step-by-Step

Follow these instructions to reach the best viewpoints without getting lost. The trails are color-coded, making navigation relatively simple for beginners. This route focuses on the most scenic path starting from the northern edge of the city.

1. Step 1: Arrive at Velká Klajdovka. Take bus 201 from Stará osada. The ride takes about 10 minutes and costs roughly 20 CZK. Avoid the mistake of getting off too early at Akátky.
2. Step 2: Follow the Yellow Trail. Look for the yellow markers on trees near the Hotel Velká Klajdovka. This path leads you directly into the Hády nature reserve. Avoid wandering onto private garden paths nearby.
3. Step 3: Reach the Upper Cliff. Walk for about 500 meters until the forest opens up. You will see the city of Brno spread out below you. Stay away from the very edge of the cliffs as the limestone can be unstable.
4. Step 4: Descend to Růženin Quarry. Take the narrow path leading down to the right. This brings you to the quarry floor where small ponds have formed. This area is often quieter than the upper viewpoints.

Essential Hiking Checklist and Gear

Even though this is a city hike, you should come prepared for rocky terrain. The limestone paths can be very slippery after rain. Proper footwear will make your experience much safer and more enjoyable. You might also find more tips in our Hády quarry viewpoint guide for specific photo spots.

• Sturdy shoes: Wear sneakers with good grip or light hiking boots.
• Water: Bring at least 1 liter, as there are no shops inside the reserve.
• Offline Map: Download a local map app like Mapy.cz for offline navigation.
• Sun protection: The quarry floor reflects heat and offers very little shade.
• Camera: A wide-angle lens is best for capturing the full quarry landscape.

Best Viewpoints and What to Expect

Once you reach the top, the views are breathtaking. You can see the Špilberk Castle and the Petrov Cathedral in the distance. In 2026, the area remains a protected nature monument, so stay on the designated paths. This helps protect the rare plants and insects that live in the limestone soil.

For the most dramatic lighting, plan your arrival for the late afternoon. You can read more about the best sunset spots at Hády quarry to time your trip perfectly. The colors of the rock change from grey to golden as the sun goes down. It is a favorite spot for local couples and photographers.

If you enjoy exploring the heights of the city, you might also like the depths. Consider visiting the Brno underground labyrinth guide for a different perspective of the city. Both locations offer a unique look at the geological history of the Moravian region.

Troubleshooting Common Hiking Issues

Hiking in Hády is generally safe, but problems can arise for the unprepared. The most common issue is losing the trail in the dense forest sections. Always look for the painted markers on the trees to stay on track. If you get lost, head uphill to find the main ridge road.

• Lost markers: If you haven't seen a yellow stripe in 5 minutes, turn back to the last one.
• Muddy paths: Avoid the lower quarry floor for 24 hours after heavy rain.
• Restricted zones: Do not cross fences, as some areas are still active or protected.
• Tick safety: Use repellent if walking through high grass in the summer months.
• Bus delays: Check the Go To Brno portal for any temporary transport changes.
• Phone battery: Cold weather can drain your battery; bring a power bank for navigation.