Vápenice – Discover Kopanice Culture and Nature

Vápenice combines the history of a Kopaničář settlement with vibrant folk culture, protected landscapes and destinations to visit in the surrounding area. The village was established as early as before 1740 as a Kopaničář settlement belonging to Starý Hrozenkov. Those planning a trip to the Moravian Kopanice will find a place where tradition, observing nature and active experiences are closely intertwined.

Folk Culture with Distinctive Sounds

A characteristic part of the cultural life is the men's choir from Vápenice. It continues the tradition of Hude music and of a folklore group that was active in Vápenice in the past. Its repertoire consists primarily of songs from the Kopanice. During parish feast celebrations, the choir performs at the bell towers in Vápenice and Žítková; in Vápenice, its performance at the bell tower is explicitly documented.

The annual cycle also reflects this local character: In Vápenice, a maypole is traditionally erected in April. In September, the Kopaničář village celebrates its parish feast, and a mass is held at the bell in the same month. Vápenice also hosted an invitation to the 14th gathering of heligonka players. For you, this mainly means that the cultural impressions here are conveyed not only through historical names, but also through music, customs and recurring village events.

The Okolo Hrozenka Educational Trail

A clearly defined way to experience the region's landscape and culture together is the “Okolo Hrozenka” educational trail. The 20-kilometre, moderately difficult route is designed for pedestrians and leads through the surroundings of Starý Hrozenkov, Žítková, Vyškovec and Vápenice. Eight information boards provide insights into life and culture in the Moravian Kopanice, past and present. The trail therefore combines physical activity with an informative introduction to the region, rather than merely linking individual viewpoints.

Protected Meadows and Rare Plants

Several natural areas with different characteristics lie in the surroundings of Vápenice. The protected Mravenčí louka (Rubaniska) area covers 15.3 hectares. It comprises a species-rich complex of original pastures, overgrown field margins, and scattered groups of shrubs and trees containing endangered plant species. Several orchid species and other rare plants can be found at Mravenčí louka.

The also protected V Krátkých area consists of flower-rich orchid meadows, wet meadows and two ponds. These ponds are an important habitat for amphibians and aquatic insects, especially dragonflies. The two areas have different focal points: here, open meadows rich in structural diversity are the main feature; there, wetlands and bodies of water take centre stage.

Winter Sports and a Cycle Route on Mikulčin Vrch

The surrounding area also offers a specific destination for active days during the cooler season. A popular ski resort with several downhill runs and lifts is located on Mikulčin Vrch. The Lopata slope is suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers. Cycle route 46 also runs over Mikulčin Vrch in the vicinity of Vápenice. This allows you to choose different focuses when planning your travel dates: folk culture and the educational trail, botanically interesting protected areas, or activities around the mountain.

Other Places for Your Research

If you would like to compare Vápenice with other destinations, you can also find Salaš U Velehradu, Kudlovice, Břestek, Strání, Nezdenice, Bojkovice, Košíky and Stary Hrozenkov here.

For the higher-level travel overview: Uherské Hradiště District.