Repešským žlebem k jeskyním

A network of long-distance cycling routes crosses all of Europe. Cycle route number nine, starting in Poland, also passes through Prostějov, from where it continues through Austria to Slovenia and ends in the Croatian town of Pula. However, interesting places worth visiting can already be encountered just beyond Prostějov. A moderately challenging bike trip from Prostějov to the Sloupsko-šošůvské caves will take you through often untouched nature.

You can join the route at the Hloučela bio-corridor in Prostějov and continue along the stream to Mostkovice. In the village, turn left before the U Čáp bistro and continue uphill towards the Přehrada Autocamp. Ride around the reservoir, where you can make your first stop at one of the many refreshments available, for example at the renovated Hotel Zlechov, and check out Plumlov Castle.

Continue past the Podhradský pond with a possible stop at the Žralok campsite to Soběsuky. The route goes along a busy road to Žárovice, luckily this section is not long. In Žárovice, turn right to Hamry. You will pass through the village and then turn left towards the Military Training Area. The cycle path leads through a publicly accessible part, so you can ride it without worries. It continues straight through the forest to a shelter where you can take cover or have a snack in case of bad weather. Nearby is the ruin of Ježov castle, built in the 14th century.

The trail continues through the Repešský gorge. This part is quite long and includes prolonged climbs, so the route is suitable for slightly advanced cyclists. If you want to enjoy a longer bike trip and avoid these climbs, you can use the cycle bus that will take you from Prostějov to Protivanov, from where you can reach Repechy and join the route. The newly built Kopaninka lookout tower is worth a stop, offering a view of the entire region.

Then ride through Niva and after the village turn left. Through the Baldovec campsite you will reach Holštejn. If you briefly detour to the left you can visit the ruins of Holštejn castle and the adjacent caves. This area is a bit harder to access by bike. From Holštejn you can continue to Sloup. Here you can visit the Sloupsko-šošůvské caves. At this point, the route is 37 kilometers long, so consider whether you already want to think about returning or still visit the Punkevní gorge and Punkevní caves.