Stínava: Ponds, Forests and Cultural History

Stínava lies at the foot of the Drahanská vrchovina, 400 metres above sea level. The Okluka stream flows around the village, which is surrounded by forests. Ponds, the Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross and the nearby Celtic settlement of Staré Hradisko give the destination a range of landscape and historical connections. If you are considering a trip to Stínava, you can include both nature and architectural and local history in your plans.

Ponds, Stream and Forest

The Stínava ponds were created by restoring a former wetland, a project completed in 2014. They provide a habitat for wetland species, including snakes, newts, salamanders, snails, crayfish and various frog species. Water beetles, dragonflies and damselflies, as well as aquatic plants, are also found there. This diversity makes the ponds a clear nature-focused destination for anyone interested in wetlands and their wildlife and plant life.

The ponds also serve as a resting place for tourists passing through or hiking in Stínava. They are close to the Okluka stream, linking a natural area with a practical point of interest for people travelling on foot. Nature enthusiasts can focus on the habitats, while hikers can also make use of the resting place. The Jesinková spring is also in the forest near Stínava, adding a named spring to the area’s natural features.

Church and Cultural History

The Church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is a cultural monument dating from the 13th century. Despite alterations in the 17th and 19th centuries, it has retained its original character. Remains of frescoes can be found in the presbytery behind the main altar; the church also has a bell dating from 1490. The bell therefore belongs to a later period than the church’s original construction, while the alterations extend its history into the 19th century. The fresco remains and the bell add specific details to the building’s history.

The nearby Celtic settlement of Staré Hradisko is also part of Stínava’s historical surroundings. It broadens the view beyond the church’s architectural history and serves as a distinct point of interest in the area. Every year, a festive Mass is held in Stínava’s chapel on the feast day of the missionaries Saints Cyril and Methodius. This recurring tradition is also part of the village’s cultural life.

The chapel above the Studánka Sv. Cyrila a Metoděje spring was restored in 1881. Its position above the spring connects the chapel with another specific natural feature in the area.

Exploring Stínava on Foot

The area around Stínava is suitable for walks. A red-marked hiking trail from Plumlov to Stražisko also passes through the village. Plumlov and Stražisko are the endpoints of this particular hike, and the route runs through Stínava. This distinguishes the named route from a general walk in the surrounding forest. Check the trail’s current markings before setting out.

Stínava can be enjoyed both as a place to stay in a forested setting and through its cultural sites. The ponds and their use as a resting place appeal to travellers on foot, while the church, chapels and Staré Hradisko offer further, distinct historical connections.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Želeč, Mořice, Bílovice, Dzbel, Vitčice, Kralice Na Hané, Dobrochov, Vícov

Back to the regional travel overview: Okres Prostějov.