The Moravian Karst is an otherworldly region of Czech Republic that resembles Swiss cheese in its exceptional pockmarked appearance. Packed with more than 1,100 caverns and gorges, the area is decorated with underground rivers and colorful stalactites. Imagine you’re on a distant planet as you tour four open caves and learn about the area’s geology and natural history.
Delve into the Punkva Caves on a guided tour and chat with the docent about the formation of the stalagmites and stalactites that are illuminated deep beneath the earth’s surface. Riding a boat along the underground river feels like an experience from a Greek myth.
Reach the extraordinary Macocha Abyss, a sinkhole said to be deeper than any other in Central Europe. Enjoy excellent vistas from the upper and lower viewpoints outside. Listen to the guide talk about the 18th-century monk who entered this labyrinth of caves.
Make your way to the Kateřinská jeskyně, another of the caves open to the public for tours. It is known for its majestic limestone pillars. Descend into the Balcarka Cave for a natural show of light and color from the wonderful stalactites. Appreciate the sheer size of the underground atriums in another cave, known as the Sloupsko-šo šůvské jeskyně.
Above ground, visit the Rudické propadání nature reserve and enjoy a picnic in the shade of the trees. This open-air abyss has a range of rivers, waterfalls and rock formations, as well as its own cave system. Watch climbers taking on the rocky mounds in this scenic area.
The region runs across the southeastern part of the Czech Republic, a little north of Brno in the South Moravian area. Use the nearby town of Blansko as a base and drive out into the karst for its spectacular natural features. Explore the surrounding region to reach the Austrian border and the Žďárské vrchy nature reserve.
