Herálec – between the Svratka, history and the Žďárské vrchy

Herálec is unusual in that it connects two different landscapes: the Svratka forms the natural boundary between the Bohemian and Moravian parts of the village. At this historic dividing line stands the three-arch stone Valenův most, built in 1856 and connecting both parts of the village. A stone beside the bridge also marks the historic boundary between Bohemia and Moravia. Those who choose Herálec as a destination will therefore discover not only a landscape at the foot of the Žďárské vrchy Protected Landscape Area, but also a place with a clearly visible history.

History and distinctive village scenery

The first written record of Herálec dates from 1366. It is connected with a border dispute between the Nové Město estate and Žďár Monastery. Traces of the village’s earlier history can also be found in its buildings: renovated log houses are among Herálec’s characteristic traditional buildings. A remnant of a former farmyard, which once belonged to the Rychmburk estate, has also been preserved.

A prominent landmark of the village is the Church of St Catherine on a hill. The church was rebuilt in the Neoclassical style in 1787 after the older building was severely damaged by lightning in 1785. A tour of Herálec therefore offers several different points of interest: traditional houses, the church in its elevated position, the former farmyard and the stone bridge over the Svratka.

Forests, rocks and protected landscapes

Herálec lies at the foot of the Žďárské vrchy Protected Landscape Area and is a starting point for relaxing walks into the nearby forests. Spruce and fir predominate there, with oak stands also occurring locally. In the surrounding area, the forest reserve on Žákova hora protects natural fir and sycamore-beech stands across 15 hectares.

A notable landscape feature is Devět skal. At 836 m, this rock formation is the highest point in the Žďárské vrchy and has been designated a natural monument since 1976. Devět skal lies approximately 3.5 km southeast of Herálec. At the summit, a marked turn-off leads to a viewpoint offering an almost panoramic view. In good visibility, Králický Sněžník or the Krkonoše Mountains can be seen from there.

Swimming days and excursions

There are two different options for spending time by the water in Herálec. During the summer months, Rybník Hať in the Moravian part of the village can be used for swimming. It has a grassy beach, a sandy, gently sloping bottom and wooden steps leading into the water. Rybník Kuchyně in the Bohemian part, also known as Vodičák or Šantůreček, is accessible for swimming along its entire shore. Fishing is also permitted at Rybník Kuchyně upon purchase of a permit.

Those who would like to combine an excursion with natural and regional history can include the Naučná stezka Žákova hora – Tisůvka educational trail. It runs in the vicinity of Herálec, is approximately 10 km long and provides information about the nature and history of the northern part of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands. Depending on the desired pace of the day, water, forest, viewpoints and cultural-historical discoveries can thus be combined in different ways.

Village life at Špačkův dům

The reconstructed Špačkův dům is also part of Herálec’s characteristic village scenery. The building serves as a centre of social and cultural life and is one of the village’s defining sights. A local museum was established in its attic, recalling the history of Herálec. The reconstruction also included a restaurant with a terrace by the river.

For your further destination search, you can also consider Pikárec, Kuklik, Horní Rožínka, Rousměrov, Sviny, Baliny, Kotlasy and Koroužné.

For the broader travel overview: Okres Žďár Nad Sázavou.