10 Best Brno Reservoir Recreational Activities

The reservoir is the primary hub for outdoor fun in the region. Most visitors start their journey at the Bystrc harbor. From here, you can access beaches, boat docks, and scenic walking paths. It is one of the most popular things to do in Brno during the warmer months. Here are the top picks for your itinerary.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Electric Boat Cruise
• Best for families: Rakovec Minigolf
• Best for nature: Veveří Castle Hike
• Best free activity: Swimming at Sokolské Koupaliště

1. Name: Electric Boat Cruise Type: Experience Why go: These eco-friendly boats offer the best views of the surrounding forests and the castle. Best for: Sightseers and couples. Where: Bystrc main harbor. Time: 45 to 90 minutes. Cost: Approximately 200 CZK for a full loop. Getting there: Take tram 1 or 10 to Přístaviště. Tip: Check the boat cruise schedule on Brno Reservoir before you arrive.
2. Name: Veveří Castle Type: Sight Why go: This medieval fortress sits on a rocky cliff overlooking the water. It is one of the oldest castle complexes in the country. Best for: History buffs. Where: Northern end of the reservoir. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Around 100-200 CZK for interior tours. Getting there: Take the boat to the "Hrad Veveří" stop. Tip: The castle courtyards are often free to enter during public events.
3. Name: Sokolské Koupaliště Type: Nature Why go: This is a popular beach area known for its beach volleyball courts and grassy lawns. Best for: Active groups and sunbathers. Where: East bank of the reservoir. Time: Half day. Cost: Free entry to the beach. Getting there: A 15-minute walk from the Bystrc harbor. Tip: This area has the best sunset views over the water.
4. Name: Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) Type: Activity Why go: Renting a board allows you to explore hidden coves that boats cannot reach. Best for: Fitness enthusiasts. Where: Kozí Horka rental stations. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Roughly 250 CZK per hour. Getting there: Walk or take a short bus ride from Bystrc. Tip: Go early in the morning when the water is perfectly flat.
5. Name: Junácká Louka Trail Type: Viewpoint Why go: This scenic meadow offers a panoramic view of the dam and the castle. Best for: Photographers. Where: Near the Veveří bridge. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the red hiking trail from the castle. Tip: It is a great spot for a quiet picnic away from the crowds.
6. Name: Reservoir Loop Path Type: Activity Why go: A paved and gravel path circles the entire water body, perfect for a long workout. Best for: Runners and cyclists. Where: Starts at the dam wall. Time: 2-3 hours by bike. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the Přístaviště tram stop. Tip: The west side of the path is more hilly and forested.
7. Name: Kozí Horka Swimming Area Type: Nature Why go: It features gentle slopes into the water, making it very safe for swimming. Best for: Families with children. Where: West bank. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible by car or a long walk from the harbor. Tip: There are several small kiosks nearby for cold drinks and snacks.
8. Name: Rakovec Minigolf Type: Experience Why go: A well-maintained course located right near the water's edge. Best for: Families and casual fun. Where: Rakovec area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: About 100 CZK per person. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the main tram stop. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby playgrounds.
9. Name: Rokle Beach Type: Hidden Gem Why go: This area is much quieter than the main harbor beaches. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: Middle section of the reservoir. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the boat to the "Rokle" stop. Tip: Bring your own supplies as there are fewer shops here.
10. Name: Winter Ice Skating Type: Seasonal Why go: When the reservoir freezes, it becomes the city's largest natural ice rink. Best for: Winter travelers. Where: Entire surface. Time: Unlimited. Cost: Free. Getting there: Any access point along the shore. Tip: Always check local safety reports before stepping onto the ice.

Active Adventures: Hiking and Biking Trails

For those seeking more than just a swim, the area is rich with trails. Hiking is one of the most rewarding Brno Reservoir recreational activities. You can find many hiking trails around Brno Reservoir to Veveri Castle. These paths wind through dense forests and offer frequent glimpses of the blue water. Most trails are well-marked with standard Czech hiking signs.

Cycling is also very popular here. The terrain varies from flat lakeside paths to steep forest climbs. You can easily rent a bike in the city center and ride to the dam. The loop around the reservoir is approximately 15 kilometers long. It is a great way to see both the developed and wild sides of the lake. Be sure to ring your bell on busy weekends.

If you prefer a shorter walk, stick to the eastern shore. This area is mostly paved and features many benches. It is perfect for a leisurely stroll at sunset. You will pass several outdoor fitness stations along the way. These are free for everyone to use. It is a great way to stay active while enjoying the fresh air.

Family-Friendly Fun at the Brno Dam

Families will find plenty of specialized family activities in Brno for kids at the reservoir. The Rakovec area is particularly good for younger children. It features large wooden playgrounds and safe, shallow water access. Many of the grassy areas are perfect for a family football match. You will see many locals bringing their own portable grills for a barbecue.

The boat trip is usually the highlight for children. The vessels are quiet because they use electric motors. This makes the ride very peaceful and enjoyable for all ages. Kids love watching the captain steer the boat from the upper deck. You can buy family tickets at the main harbor office to save money. Most boats have space for strollers and bicycles as well.

Educational opportunities also exist near the water. You can visit the dam wall to see the impressive engineering of the reservoir. Information plaques explain how the dam protects the city from floods. It is a quick and interesting stop for curious minds. The area is very safe, but always keep an eye on children near the water's edge.

Planning Your Brno Reservoir Visit

Getting to the water is very simple. You should learn how to get to Brno dam by tram to save time. Tram line 1 is the most direct route from the main train station. The journey takes about 25 minutes. You can buy tickets using a contactless card directly on the tram. For more details on schedules, check the official DPMB - Brno Public Transport website.

The best time to visit is from May to September. During this period, all boat services and kiosks are fully operational. July and August are the warmest months for swimming. However, these months are also the busiest. If you prefer a quiet experience, try visiting on a weekday morning. The atmosphere is much more serene before the afternoon crowds arrive.

Food options are plentiful around the harbor. You can find traditional Czech snacks like fried cheese or grilled sausages. There are also several seated restaurants with terraces overlooking the water. For more information on local tourism, visit the Go To Brno portal. They provide updates on seasonal events and festivals held at the dam.