Discover Petráveč: History and Walking Routes

The bridge and chapel offer different historical themes; the Okruh and children’s educational trail each have specific features to consider, including their starting points, surfaces and design. This distinction makes it easier to decide whether historic buildings or a walking route should be the deciding factor for your trip.

Bridge and Chapel: Petráveč’s Local History

The single-arch bridge “Petráveč, silniční most” was part of the old highway connecting Jihlava and Brno. Its transport links therefore extend beyond the village. It is an architecturally elaborate technical monument; the term “single-arch” refers to its design, with one arch. Today, it is hidden within the grounds of a local waste disposal facility. The bridge’s former function, its construction and its present-day location are therefore distinct aspects to consider when understanding it.

The chapel in Petráveč is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and was built in 1914 to replace a bell tower. The year of construction dates its origins; the reference to the bell tower explains the architectural context, while the dedication indicates its religious significance. In contrast to the bridge, the religious dedication and building history take centre stage here. This gives you a second perspective on local history, distinct from the technical monument.

Two Routes and Their Features

The starting point for the Nesměř Valley Circuit is at the turnoff from the road between Velké Meziříčí and Petráveč, by the bridge over the Oslava near the wastewater treatment plant. The bridge itself is now hidden within the grounds of a local waste disposal facility and is not freely accessible. Parking for cars is available at the starting point. The circular route runs mainly along paved paths. The exception is the section between Petráveč and Velké Meziříčí, which can be bypassed via an asphalt road.

The entrance to the Nesměř Valley children’s educational trail is at the turnoff from the road between Velké Meziříčí and Petráveč, behind the former distillery, now POEX. The trail features seven playful stations. Most of it runs along paved paths, so you can bring a stroller. The stations give the route a clear structure, while information about the surface addresses a practical question when choosing a route.

The difference is clear in a direct comparison: the Okruh has car parking and an asphalt alternative for one section; the children’s educational trail is defined by its seven stations and the option of bringing a stroller. You can weigh these features according to what matters for planning your trip.

A Dated Farmers’ Market

A specific event date adds another point of interest to the local history and walking routes: on 15 August 2026, a farmers’ market in the “Poznej svého farmáře” series took place at the Petráveč oil mill and was open to the general public. This date has now passed. If visiting a market is important to your trip, check the event dates for your planned travel period.

Discover more destinations: Spělkov, Lísek, Rudolec, Krásné, Ořechov, Jívoví, Radenice, Měřín

Return to the regional travel overview: Žďár nad Sázavou District.