The Macocha Abyss is a sinkhole in the neighborhood of Brno that is one of the highlights of the Moravian Karst cave system. The Punkva River trickles through this fascinating sight, which is the deepest hole of its kind in Central Europe. Inspect the rare flowers lining the entrance to the sinkhole.

The tunnels, domes and subterranean river of the Moravian Karst have been formed over time by the passage of acidic water. Hike through the scenic surroundings and reach some of the viewing platforms that overlook the sinkhole.

From the upper observation deck, ride the cableway to the nearby Punkva Caves entrance. Join a 90-minute tour of this subterranean maze with a docent to learn about its fascinating natural features, including the many stalagmites and stalactites.

You’ll pass through the sinkhole, which provides a rare glimpse of sky on the tour. Speak with the guide about the history of the site. The first record of its exploration is from 1723, when the monk Lazar Schopper was lowered into it.

Note that the site is also known as the Macocha Gorge. It is technically not an abyss nor a gorge, but rather a sinkhole. The first part of the name means stepmother, in reference to the legend of a widow who pushed her stepson into the hole because she wanted to give more attention to her own son. The story says that he survived and cried out, before the townspeople saved him and pushed the stepmother into the abyss.

The Macocha Abyss lies in the northwestern corner of Vilémovice, in the northern outskirts of Brno. From the city center of Brno, drive north for 22 miles (35 kilometers) to get here in less than an hour. Leave your car in the designated parking lot for a fee. Explore the surrounding area for other attractions such as the rest of the Moravian Karst, the Western Town Boskovice and the Punkva Caves.