From České Budějovice Around the Ponds and for a Good Beer

Total length

24 km

Duration

1:30 hours

Terrain

Asphalt – secondary roads

Recommended period for visiting

Spring to autumn

Difficulty level

Easy difficulty

Marking

NO (not fully on cycle paths)

How do you get to the start

České Budějovice is well connected by public transport, and shared bicycles can be used for this trip.

How to get back

The trip is designed as a circular route.

Route description

Our journey starts in České Budějovice, a city rich in historical and cultural landmarks. A must-visit is Přemysl Otakar II Square, one of the largest and most beautiful squares in the Czech Republic, covering nearly one hectare. The square is dominated by the Baroque Samson Fountain, featuring four Atlases holding a circular basin with a statue of Biblical Samson and a lion.

Water, which is closely tied to high-quality beer, was supplied to the square by the Water Tower, where you can learn about the history of water in the city. Next to the fountain, you will find the Bludný kámen or "Wandering Stone," about which legend says that stepping on it at midnight will make you lose your way home.

Another highlight is the Black Tower, which offers stunning panoramic views. While climbing its steep stairs, you can see six bells, some of which are surrounded by legends. Other notable sites include the Gothic Cathedral of St. Nicholas and Piarist Square, home to the historic Salt Warehouse and the Dominican Monastery with the Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary.

After exploring the city center, follow Cycle Route No. 1100 through the Branišovský Forest to the village of Branišov, then continue to Křenovice. These picturesque villages are perfect for a short break or refreshments at a local pub.

In Křenovice, switch to Cycle Route No. 1082, which leads you along the Vyšatov and Motovidlo ponds. After about five kilometers, you will reach Nové Dvory, where you can visit the Minibrewery Kněžínek, housed in a traditional rural estate from the late 19th century. This brewery is the first in České Budějovice and is worth visiting not only for its excellent beer but also for learning about the history and present of brewing in the region.

After visiting Nové Dvory, follow Cycle Routes No. 1109 and 1108, which run alongside the ponds, back to České Budějovice, where the route ends. On the way back, you will pass the scenic Vrbenské Ponds, part of a protected nature reserve. If this place captivates you, return another time and explore the Vrbenské Ponds Educational Trail.