Discover Škrdlovice: Glassmaking Tradition, Cross-Country Skiing and Landscape

Škrdlovice is located in the Žďárské vrchy Protected Landscape Area and combines an unusually vivid glassmaking tradition with trails, winter sports and a mountainous surrounding area. The glassworks adds a cultural accent, while cross-country skiing, hiking and cycling offer different ways to enjoy active outings. The village is therefore suitable for travellers who do not want to limit their stay to just one type of excursion. When choosing a hotel in Škrdlovice, you can consider whether to focus on the attractions in the village, cross-country skiing or the trails and mountains in the surrounding area.

Glass as a defining theme

The small U Hrocha glassworks in Škrdlovice focuses on glass tourism. Under the direction of glass master Oldřich Šimpach, guided demonstrations of the production of hand-shaped glassware are offered. Interested visitors can also make their own glass product under the guidance of a glass master, provided they book in advance. Advance booking should therefore be included in your visit planning if you would like to make your own piece. This allows you to experience the village’s craftsmanship not only by observing it, but also through a hands-on activity.

The former glassworks in Škrdlovice is also part of its history. Emanuel Beránek founded it in 1940; it ceased production in 2008. In this way, the present-day offering and the history of the former glassworks provide two different approaches to the same craft. These two dates clearly mark the historical period of the glassworks and distinguish it from the current offerings of the small U Hrocha glassworks. Those interested in the history of regional craftsmanship will therefore find both a historical connection and a contemporary form of glass tourism in Škrdlovice.

Cross-country skiing around Škrdlovice

For winter sports, the Škrdlovický okruh is available, an easy cross-country skiing route of around nine kilometres around Škrdlovice. The cross-country circuit starts on the edge of the village near the turn-off to the holiday cottage area at Velké Dářko. The route is groomed for both skating and classic cross-country skiing. The approximately nine kilometres provide a clear framework for the outing and make it easier to fit into your day’s planning. This allows you to choose between two cross-country skiing styles when planning your day and compare the length of the circuit directly with other excursion options.

Hiking, cycling and mountains in the surrounding area

A hiking trail through Škrdlovice passes through the village square and by the Chapel of Saints Cyril and Methodius. The square in front of the chapel features statues of these saints as well as a statue of Saint Wenceslas. For a longer outing, the 35-kilometre Škrdlovická trasa za skláři starts in Škrdlovice. This cycling trip follows in the footsteps of former glassmakers. At 35 kilometres, the cycling tour is an independent excursion; its theme combines physical activity with the glassmaking tradition.

The mountains Žákova hora, Světka, Devět Skal and Rosička are located around Škrdlovice. The places in the Protected Landscape Area, the local glass-related attractions and the various routes give your travel planning several clear focal points, without requiring you to limit yourself to culture, activity or landscape.

Other places for your research

If you would like to expand your selection, here are some more places: Milešín, Vlachovice, Nové Dvory, Rožná, Vecov, Dobra Voda, Lhotka and Ubušínek.

For the broader travel overview: Okres Žďár Nad Sázavou.