Macocha Abyss Day Trip: At a Glance

This 1-day itinerary focuses on the best views of the Moravian Karst. It is designed for active travelers staying in Brno. The plan combines moderate hiking with a visit to the famous underground river. You will experience the gorge from both the top and the bottom.

Day 1:

• 08:30 – 09:30: Travel from Brno to Skalní mlýn.
• 10:00 – 12:00: Follow the Macocha Abyss viewpoint hike directions to the Upper and Lower Bridges.
• 12:00 – 13:00: Lunch break at the Macocha cottage.
• 13:30 – 15:30: Tour of the Punkva Caves and boat ride.
• 16:00 – 17:30: Return journey to Brno.

Logistics Tip: Always book your cave tickets several weeks in advance. They sell out quickly, especially during the summer months and weekends.

How to Reach the Trailhead from Brno

Getting to the start of the hike is simple. Start your journey at the Brno main railway station. Take a regional train toward the town of Blansko. These trains run frequently throughout the day. The scenic ride takes approximately 30 minutes. You can buy tickets at the station or via a mobile app.

Once you arrive in Blansko, look for the local bus terminal. It is located right outside the train station. Catch bus 226, often called the Krasobus. This bus will take you directly to Skalní mlýn. This is the main tourist hub for the area. For more details, check our guide on how to get to Moravian Karst from Brno.

In 2026, public transport remains the most eco-friendly choice. If you prefer driving, there is a large paid parking lot at Skalní mlýn. However, spaces fill up by mid-morning. Arriving early ensures a stress-free start to your adventure.

Macocha Abyss Viewpoint Hike Directions

Your hike begins at the Skalní mlýn information center. From here, follow the yellow-marked tourist trail. The path leads you into the Punkevní valley. You will walk alongside a small stream for the first section. The trail is mostly flat and very easy to follow.

After about 1.5 kilometers, the trail begins to climb. Follow the Macocha Abyss viewpoint hike directions toward the Upper Bridge (Horní můstek). This ascent is steep but well-maintained. It takes about 30 to 40 minutes to reach the top. Once there, you will stand 138 meters above the abyss floor. The view into the green depths is spectacular.

Next, follow the blue-marked trail to the Lower Bridge (Dolní můstek). This walk takes only 10 minutes. The Lower Bridge is situated 90 meters above the bottom. It offers a closer look at the rock formations and the cave entrance below. To return, you can hike back down the blue trail. Alternatively, take the cable car for a quick descent to the Punkva Caves entrance.

Exploring the Punkva Caves and Abyss Floor

No trip to the abyss is complete without seeing the floor. The only way to reach the bottom is through the Punkva Caves. This is the most popular attraction in the region. Ensure you have a Punkva Caves boat ride ticket reservation ready. The cave entrance is a short walk from the bottom cable car station.

The guided tour takes you through massive limestone chambers. You will see impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Eventually, the path opens up into the floor of the Macocha Abyss. Standing at the bottom and looking up is a powerful experience. It puts the scale of the gorge into perspective.

The final part of the tour is a boat ride. You will float along the underground Punkva River. The water is crystal clear and very cold. The boat guides share interesting stories about the cave's discovery. The tour ends back near the main entrance at the valley floor.

Practical Tips for Your Moravian Karst Hike

Preparation is key for a great day in nature. Even in summer, the caves are cold. The temperature stays around 8 degrees Celsius. Bring a light jacket or a sweater for the cave portion. Wear sturdy hiking shoes for the forest trails. Some sections of the Macocha Abyss viewpoint hike directions involve uneven terrain.

There are several places to eat in the area. The Macocha cottage near the Upper Bridge serves traditional Czech meals. You can also find snacks at Skalní mlýn. However, carrying your own water is highly recommended. For more ideas on what to do after your hike, see the best things to do in Brno.

Check the official tourism portal for any trail closures. In 2026, some paths may undergo maintenance to improve safety. Always stay on marked trails to protect the local ecosystem. The Moravian Karst is a protected landscape area with rare plant species.