A 5.2-kilometre blue-marked nature trail brings the connection between Býšovec and Smrček to life: the Pernštejn–Smrček–Nedvědice route leads to Smrček, a part of the municipality of Býšovec. On the way from the bus stop in Smrček to Nedvědice, it follows a forest path past an old Pernštejn marble quarry and the Roudné mines, and crosses a hill. Hiking and the landscape around Pernštejn give your trip planning a clear focus. If you are looking for accommodation, consider whether the nature trail or the area's cultural history should shape your stay. Check local trail conditions before setting off.

Hiking trail, views and marble

The nature trail leads to viewpoints offering unusual views of Pernštejn Castle and the surrounding peaks. One named viewpoint is Stráž, a point in the castle's guard system on the summit of a hill. From there, you can see Pernštejn. The view of the castle here is linked to a specific place in its history.

The Hradní lom marble quarry is also along the nature trail, below Hulákův Hill. The quarry is also connected with the castle's construction history: during the major renovation of Pernštejn, which began shortly before 1460, marble from Hradní lom near Smrček was used above all. Those interested in the castle will find, alongside the viewpoints, a connection to the building material used in its renovation.

Chapels and dated local history

In Smrček, the Chapel of St Anthony of Padua is crowned with a tall octagonal onion dome topped by a lantern. In Býšovec, the Chapel of St Lawrence has a small octagonal turret clad in galvanised sheet metal at the western end of the roof ridge. The two descriptions draw attention to different roof shapes: a dome and lantern in one case, and a turret on the ridge in the other.

Býšovec is documented in a record from 1350. In 1398, Jan z Býšovce and his wife Kateřina are mentioned; that year, Vilém of Pernštejn assigned them an allodial court in Býšovec. The seal of Adam of Býšovec, dated 1484, is considered the earliest evidence of the Býšovec lords' coat of arms. The dates represent distinct historical reference points: the record of the settlement, the history of the court associated with named individuals, and the earliest evidence of the coat of arms.

Cycling and other activities

The major long-distance Vienna–Prague cycle route passes through Býšovec and can be followed all the way from Vienna to Prague. Its transregional route differs from the 5.2-kilometre nature trail leading to Smrček. If you plan to cycle, check the current signage before setting off.

Hunters hold the traditional public “O Pernštejnský pohár” competition every year at the Smrček–Býšovec shooting range. No current event date is provided; check the date if you would like to include the competition in your travel plans. In Smrček, a private horse farm also offers the opportunity to go riding. Arrange your visit in advance, as the activity may require prior booking.

When looking for a hotel for your stay in Býšovec, it helps to consider whether you would like to focus on the nature trail, the long-distance cycling route or the history of the place.

Discover more destinations: Sázava, Dolní Heřmanice, Ujčov, Pokojov, Uhřínov, Bobrová, Koroužné, Bolesín

For the broader travel overview: Žďár nad Sázavou District.