Vysocina Road Trip

The Vysocina Road Trip is a relaxed 4‑day loop of about 257km through the rolling highlands of central Czechia, starting in Zdar nad Sazavou and ending in Trebic. It is a route for people who like small historic towns, castles and quiet countryside rather than big cities and crowds. The best time to drive it is from late April to October, with May–June and September usually offering the most pleasant mix of mild temperatures, green landscapes and fewer tourists.

You set off in Zdar nad Sazavou, a town surrounded by forests, ponds and gentle hills. The main highlight here is the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk at Zelena Hora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The church sits on a hill just outside town and is known for its unusual, almost star‑shaped baroque–gothic design and symbolic layout. It is worth planning at least a couple of hours to walk around the complex, climb up to the church, and enjoy the wide views over the Vysocina landscape. Back in town, you can stroll around the former Cistercian monastery area and the local lakeside paths before hitting the road.

From Zdar nad Sazavou the route leads into the countryside toward Policka. This small town is one of the nicest surprises on the trip: its historic center is still surrounded by remarkably well‑preserved medieval town walls, which you can walk along in several sections. Inside the walls, the main square has a classic Moravian feel with colorful facades and a church tower that gives you a good overview of the area. Policka is also known as the birthplace of the composer Bohuslav Martinu; his museum and his birth room in the church tower are interesting stops if you like music or local culture. Policka is compact, so you can see the main sights in half a day and still have time for a relaxed coffee or lunch on the square before continuing your drive.

The road then continues through fields and forests toward Havlickuv Brod, a regional center on the Sazava River. Havlickuv Brod has a more lived‑in, less touristy vibe, but its historic core is attractive. The main square is lined with burgher houses, there are several churches, and you can find traces of the town’s printing and literary traditions linked to the Czech writer Karel Havlicek Borovsky. A walk along the riverbanks gives a different view of the town and a chance to stretch your legs. If you have a bit more time, local galleries and small museums provide context on the region’s history and crafts. It is a good place to stock up on supplies, as you will be heading into smaller settlements afterward.

Next up is Lipnice nad Sazavou, a highlight for castle lovers. The village is dominated by Lipnice Castle, one of the largest and most impressive medieval castles in the Vysocina region. The fortress has massive walls, towers and courtyards, and from the ramparts you get expansive views over the surrounding hills and forests. The interior mixes preserved medieval sections with later modifications, giving a layered sense of history. In the woods nearby you can find unusual stone sculptures carved into old quarry walls, such as the “Breath, Ear and Eye” monuments, which make for a short but memorable walk. Lipnice is also associated with the Czech writer Jaroslav Hasek, known for “The Good Soldier Svejk”; his house and related sites are part of the local heritage. Plan at least a few hours in Lipnice, especially if you want to combine the castle with a short hike.

From Lipnice nad Sazavou you continue through quiet, often winding roads toward Rokstejn. Rokstejn is not a town in the usual sense but a site of castle ruins hidden in a forested valley of the Jihlava River. The ruins of Rokstejn Castle are atmospheric: partly reconstructed to show the original layout, but still wild enough to feel like a proper ruin. The setting is particularly nice in late spring and early autumn when the surrounding woods are green or turning golden. There are marked paths around the site, so you can combine a visit with a short nature walk along the river. This stop brings a more secluded, slightly off‑the‑beaten‑path feel to the trip, contrasting with the more polished historic centers earlier on the route.

The final stretch brings you to Trebic, your endpoint and another major cultural stop. Trebic is home to a UNESCO World Heritage ensemble that includes the Jewish Quarter, the Jewish Cemetery and the Basilica of St. Procopius. The Jewish Quarter is one of the best‑preserved in Central Europe, with narrow lanes, small houses and former synagogues that show how the Jewish community lived here for centuries. The large hillside cemetery is moving and historically important. The Romanesque–Gothic Basilica of St. Procopius, just across the river, is impressive both outside and inside, with a striking crypt and a rich architectural mix. Together, these sites tell a story of coexistence and cultural exchange between Jewish and Christian communities. Beyond the UNESCO area, Trebic has a pleasant riverside promenade and a main square with cafes where you can wind down after the trip.

For a 4‑day schedule, many travelers spend the first day around Zdar nad Sazavou and Policka, the second around Havlickuv Brod and Lipnice nad Sazavou, the third exploring Rokstejn and the countryside at a slower pace, and the final day in Trebic. The distance between stops is not huge, so you can keep driving segments short and focus on walking and sightseeing. Overnight options range from small guesthouses and pensions in the towns to rural accommodation in the surrounding hills.

Road conditions on this route are generally good, with paved roads throughout, but you should be ready for some narrow, winding secondary roads typical of the Vysocina region, especially between smaller villages and when approaching castles like Rokstejn. In winter, snow and ice can make these sections tricky, and fog is not uncommon in the shoulder seasons, particularly in the mornings and evenings. Agricultural traffic, occasional wildlife crossing the road at dawn or dusk, and cyclists on quieter stretches are other things to watch out for. Fuel stations and basic services are available in the larger towns such as Zdar nad Sazavou, Havlickuv Brod and Trebic, but are less frequent in between, so it is sensible to top up your tank before heading into more rural areas. With reasonable caution and by avoiding high‑speed driving on the smaller roads, this ca. 257km Vysocina Road Trip is a comfortable and rewarding way to get to know one of Czechia’s most atmospheric regions.

Zdar nad Sazavou is a small highland town in central Czechia and a great launchpad for your Vysocina Road Trip. It sits roughly halfway between Prague and Brno, surrounded by rolling forests, ponds and quiet country roads that are perfect for scenic drives and quick hiking breaks.

The town’s main highlight is the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk at Zelená hora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just above the town. It’s a quirky, star-shaped Baroque-Gothic complex with great views over the area and a peaceful atmosphere, especially early morning or near sunset.

Down in town, swing by the former Cistercian monastery (now the Zdar Castle). Parts of it host the New Generation Museum, which gives a creative intro to local history and the monastery itself. The castle courtyard and ponds around it are nice for a short walk when you need to stretch your legs between driving segments.

The town center is compact: you’ll find a small square, local cafés, and a few restaurants where you can try Czech classics like svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce) or simple pub food and beer before hitting the road again.

If you’re flying in, the closest international airport is Brno–Tuřany Airport (BRQ), about 1.5 hours away by car under normal traffic. Prague’s Václav Havel Airport (PRG) is farther but still a realistic gateway if you’re planning a longer loop.

At Brno Airport (BRQ) you’ll typically find several major and local car rental companies with on-site desks in the terminal or just outside it. It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially in summer, to lock in a better rate and make sure the car class you want is available for your Vysocina Road Trip.

Rolling out of Zdar nad Sazavou, you’ve got about 40 km and under an hour of easy driving ahead, but don’t rush it. Before leaving, wander around the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk at Zelena Hora, one of the UNESCO Heritage sites along this route. Its unusual design and hilltop setting are worth the short detour on foot, and the views will get you in the mood for the road.

As you head toward Policka, watch for stretches where the road gets narrow and winding through villages and fields. These bits are slower, but that’s where the drive is most scenic, with glimpses of church towers and old farmsteads popping up across the countryside. Keep an eye out for historical sites visible from the road, and take your time on tighter sections.

Rolling into Policka, park up and explore the perfectly preserved town walls and compact historic center. Walking the ramparts is a cool way to end the drive, with great views back over the roofs and surrounding landscape.

More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Leaving Policka, you’ve got a short hop of about 30 km ahead, under 1 hour of driving, so there’s no rush. Before you roll out, wander Policka’s old streets and head for the Church of St. James, where the tower views over the town are worth the climb. If you’re into music history, the birth house of Bohuslav Martinu adds a nice cultural touch before hitting the road.

Once you’re driving, enjoy the scenic road as it winds through the countryside; in sections the road will be narrow, so take it easy, especially on bends and when passing oncoming cars. This stretch is more about relaxing behind the wheel than covering distance fast.

Rolling into Heralec, slow down and soak up the rural vibe. The village is a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy the surrounding nature, with peaceful walks starting almost right from the center. It’s a quiet, authentic stop where you can reset before the next drive.

For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Rolling out from Herálec, you’ve got about 48 km and under an hour’s easy driving ahead of you, with a route that mixes history and countryside charm.

Before you hit the road, wander around Herálec to soak up the peaceful village vibe and the traditional rural architecture. Keep an eye out as you drive: some UNESCO Heritage sites are along the route, adding an extra layer of cultural weight to this stretch. Parts of the road cut through fields and gentle hills, giving you a scenic road that’s perfect for unhurried cruising, but in sections the road will be narrow, so take it slow and watch for oncoming traffic and cyclists.

Rolling into Havlíčkův Brod, you’ll want to park up and explore the historical sites in the old center, especially around the main square. The atmosphere here is made for a relaxed stroll – cobbled streets, classic townhouses, and plenty of spots to grab a coffee or a drink after your drive.

This stage fits neatly into a longer adventure, so if you want to dig deeper, more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Leaving Havlickuv Brod, you roll out of town with less than 29 km ahead and under an hour behind the wheel, so there’s no rush. Before you go, it’s worth stretching your legs at the charming main square and taking a slow wander around the local streets, where you can soak up the small‑town vibe and grab a quick coffee for the drive.

The road to Ledec nad Sazavou winds gently through the countryside, and you’ll want to keep an eye out for the scenic road sections where fields and forest open up into wide views. In sections the road will be narrow, so stay alert for oncoming traffic and give yourself time to enjoy the curves instead of pushing the pace.

Rolling into Ledec nad Sazavou, head straight for the impressive local castle towering over the town. It’s a great place to park up, explore the historic walls, and look down over the river valley below, a perfect reward at the end of this short hop.

For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Rolling out of Ledeč nad Sázavou, you’ve got about 20 km and under an hour of easy driving ahead of you, so no rush. Before leaving, take a stroll up to Ledeč nad Sázavou Castle, towering above the river. Its medieval walls, tower views, and small exhibitions are perfect to set the mood for a day packed with history. As you drive out of town, enjoy the scenic road hugging the Sázava valley and the gentle countryside around you; in sections the road will be narrow, so ease off the gas, watch for oncoming traffic, and just soak up the views.

Approaching Lipnice nad Sázavou, the landscape gets even more atmospheric. Park up and climb to the mighty Lipnice Castle, one of the most impressive Gothic castles in the region, with rugged ramparts, towers, and sweeping panoramas that reward the short walk. Down in the village, literary fans shouldn’t miss the Jaroslav Hašek Memorial, dedicated to the author of “The Good Soldier Švejk,” adding a fun cultural twist to the trip.

More info about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Starting in Lipnice nad Sázavou, you’re kicking off a short but loaded stage: about 44 km on the road, under an hour of easy driving. Before you roll out, take time to wander around the mighty Lipnice Castle. Its rough stone walls, towers, and views over the countryside are a solid warm‑up for the day, and when you’re leaving town, keep an eye on the hills and forests around you – this stretch already feels pleasantly off the main tourist radar.

On the way toward Jihlava, watch for scenic sections where the road dips through woods and open fields. This is the kind of drive where you might want to slow down a bit, roll down the windows, and actually enjoy the curves instead of just chasing the next destination.

Rolling into Jihlava, head straight for the historic center. The old town square, elegant façades, and narrow streets make a great contrast to rugged Lipnice. If you’ve got time and don’t mind going underground, the Jihlava underground passages add an extra layer of history beneath your wheels. It’s a compact stage, but full of character both above and below ground.

More info on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route is available in the Itinerary of this stage.

Starting in Jihlava, you’ve got about 15 km and under an hour of easy driving ahead of you, but there’s plenty worth slowing down for. Before you roll out, take a little time to wander Jihlava’s historic center, where the old streets and squares still show off the town’s mining past. It’s a great place for a quick coffee stop and a short walk to stretch your legs before hitting the road.

Once you’re driving, keep an eye out for the changing scenery around you. In some sections the road is very winding, so take it easy and enjoy the views rather than rushing. You’ll also notice that in sections the road will be narrow, which adds to the charm but means you should stay alert for oncoming traffic and cyclists.

Your destination, Rokštejn Castle, is a real treat for anyone into history or atmospheric ruins. Park up and hike the short path to the castle, where you can roam around the remains of walls and towers and soak up the quiet valley setting. It’s a perfect spot to end this stage and take in the scenery.

More info about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Rolling out of Rokštejn, you’ll kick off this 31 km stretch with fewer than 1 hour behind the wheel, but plenty to see. Before you hit the road, take a moment at Rokštejn Castle, a rugged medieval ruin tucked in the forested valley. Climb around the old walls, check out the towers, and soak up the views of the river and surrounding hills – it’s a great warm‑up for a day focused on history and scenery.

On the drive toward Třebíč, keep your eyes peeled for the changing landscape: wooded hills opening into gentler countryside, winding sections of road, and a few really scenic viewpoints where it’s worth slowing down to enjoy the surroundings. Along this route, some UNESCO Heritage sites are along the route, so it’s worth planning enough time to stop rather than just cruising through.

In Třebíč, park up and head straight for the historic heart of town. Wander the old streets, look out for the signature towers and old houses, and explore the corners that tell the story of the place’s mixed cultural past. It’s compact, walkable, and packed with spots that reward a slow stroll after the drive.

More info about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.

Třebíč is a relaxed, under-the-radar finish line for your Vysocina Road Trip, tucked in the rolling hills of the Vysočina Region in Czechia. It’s compact, walkable, and packed with history, which makes it perfect for a final overnight stop after a long day behind the wheel.

The big-ticket sight is the UNESCO-listed Jewish Quarter and St. Procopius Basilica. Park near the center and wander the narrow lanes of the Jewish Quarter, with its preserved houses, the Rear Synagogue, and the old Jewish cemetery on the hill. It’s all close together, so you can easily explore on foot without moving the car every hour.

The Basilica of St. Procopius, just above the river, mixes Romanesque and Gothic vibes and has a cool, slightly mysterious interior. From there, stroll over to Masaryk Square, the main square lined with colorful facades, cafés, and spots to grab a beer or coffee while you plan the next leg of your drive. If you want a quick nature break, follow the paths along the Jihlava River or head up to nearby viewpoints for sunset over the town’s red roofs.

Parking is generally straightforward; look for signed lots around the center and the basilica. Distances are short, so once you’re parked, you’re set for the day.

If you’re flying in to start or end your Vysocina Road Trip, the closest major international airport is Brno–Tuřany Airport (BRQ), roughly an hour’s drive from Třebíč. Prague’s Václav Havel Airport (PRG) is farther but can offer more flight options. Either way, Třebíč makes a mellow, historic, and very drivable grand finale for your Vysocina Road Trip.