Herálec between Bohemia and Moravia

Herálec lies at the foot of the Žďárské vrchy Protected Landscape Area. The Svratka forms the natural boundary between the Bohemian and Moravian parts of the village. History and landscape meet here at specific places: a stone bridge, a boundary stone, historic buildings and ponds that can be used for swimming in summer.

History and architecture in Herálec

The first written mention of Herálec dates from 1366. It is connected with a border dispute between the Nové Město estate and the Žďár Monastery. The boundary between Bohemia and Moravia remains a defining feature of the village today: the three-arched stone Valenův Bridge connects its two parts. It was built in 1856. Beside the bridge, a stone marks the historic boundary between the lands; the Svratka forms their natural boundary.

Among the most striking buildings is the Church of St. Catherine on a hill, a prominent landmark in the village. After lightning severely damaged the older church in 1785, it was rebuilt in the neoclassical style in 1787. Renovated log houses are other characteristic traditional buildings to see in Herálec. A remnant of a former manor farm has also been preserved; it once belonged to the Rychmburk estate.

The reconstructed Špačkův dům is one of Herálec’s defining sights and serves as a centre of social and cultural life. A local museum commemorating the village’s history has been set up in its attic. If you would like to visit the museum, check in advance whether access is possible. During the reconstruction, a restaurant with a terrace by the river was also opened in the building. Before planning to dine there, check whether it is currently open.

Forests, rocks and trails

Herálec is a starting point for relaxing walks in the nearby forests. Spruce and fir trees predominate there, with oak stands also found in some areas. Nearby, the 15-hectare forest reserve on Žákova hora protects natural fir and maple-beech stands. So during your stay, the forests and protected nature can take centre stage alongside the historic village scenery.

A prominent landmark in the surrounding area is Devět skal, about 3.5 kilometres southeast of Herálec. At 836 metres, this rock formation is the highest point in the Žďárské vrchy and has been designated a natural monument since 1976. A marked path branches off at the summit to a viewpoint with an almost panoramic view. On a clear day, you can see Králický Sněžník or the Giant Mountains from there.

The Naučná stezka Žákova hora – Tisůvka educational trail also runs nearby. It is about ten kilometres long and offers insights into the nature and history of the northern part of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands. Its approximate length and thematic focus can help you decide whether to include a nature or history excursion in your stay.

Swimming in the ponds

In the Moravian part of Herálec, Rybník Hať can be used for swimming during the summer months. Its described features include a grassy beach, a sandy bottom with a gentle slope and wooden steps leading into the water. As swimming conditions and facilities may change, check the current situation at the pond before your visit.

Rybník Kuchyně is in the Bohemian part of the village and is also called Vodičák or Šantůreček. Swimming is accessible along its entire shore. Fishing is permitted with the purchase of a permit; check the applicable permit rules in advance. The two ponds lie on opposite sides of the village’s natural boundary. Together with their respective uses, they can help you tailor your stay to your interests while keeping the village’s history and landscape in view.

Discover more destinations: Hodíškov, Dolní Rožínka, Velké Tresné, Horní Rožínka, Velke Mezirici, Rudolec, Újezd, Bobrůvka.

For the broader travel overview: Okres Žďár Nad Sázavou.