The Svratka forms the natural boundary between the Bohemian and Moravian parts of Herálec. At Valenův most, this division becomes especially tangible: the stone bridge, built in 1856, has three arches and connects the two parts of the village. A stone beside it marks the historic boundary between Bohemia and Moravia. Here, the village’s history is reflected directly in the course of the river and in a structure that connects both parts of Herálec.

Local history and notable buildings

The first written mention of Herálec dates from 1366 and is associated with a border dispute between the Nové Město estate and Žďár Monastery. Later buildings also tell the story of the village’s development: the Church of St. Catherine was rebuilt in the Neoclassical style in 1787 after the older church was severely damaged by lightning in 1785. Its position on a hill makes it a prominent landmark in the village.

Renovated log houses are among the characteristic traditional buildings. A remnant of a former farmstead, which once belonged to the Rychmburk estate, can also be seen. The reconstructed Špačkův dům offers another connection to the village’s history. It is one of the defining sights and serves as a centre of social and cultural life. A local museum recalling the history of Herálec has been set up in the attic. If you are planning a visit, check visiting arrangements in advance.

As part of the reconstruction, a restaurant with a riverside terrace was also set up in Špačkův dům. Check the latest operating details before your trip.

Forests, rocks and views

Herálec lies at the foot of the Žďárské vrchy Protected Landscape Area. The village is a starting point for walks in the nearby forests, where spruce and fir trees predominate, with oak stands also found in some areas. Nearby, the forest reserve on Žákova hora protects 15 hectares of natural fir and maple-beech stands.

A prominent feature of the surrounding area is Devět skal: at 836 metres, this rock formation is the highest point in the Žďárské vrchy and has been designated a natural monument since 1976. It lies about 3.5 kilometres southeast of Herálec. At the summit, a marked spur trail leads to a viewpoint with an almost panoramic view. In good visibility, Králický Sněžník or the Giant Mountains may be visible from there.

The Naučná stezka Žákova hora – Tisůvka educational trail also runs nearby. It is approximately ten kilometres long and offers insights into the nature and history of the northern part of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands. Alongside walks in the forests, visitors can therefore choose between a designated educational trail and the viewpoint at Devět skal as different ways to experience nature.

Summer bathing spots

Rybník Hať is in the Moravian part of Herálec and can be used for swimming during the summer months. It is described as having a grassy beach, a sandy bottom that slopes gently, and wooden steps leading into the water. Conditions and facilities may change, so check local information before visiting.

Rybník Kuchyně, also known as Vodičák or Šantůreček, is in the Bohemian part. As a seasonal bathing option, it can be accessed along its entire shoreline. At Hať, the beach, bottom and water access offer specific points of reference; at Kuchyně, the distinctive feature is that the whole shore is accessible for bathing. Fishing is permitted there with the purchase of a permit. Check the applicable permit rules in advance.

Discover more destinations: Bobrová, Krásné, Spělkov, Bystřice Nad Pernštejnem, Sněžné, Brezi Nad Oslavou, Věžná, Dolní Rožínka

For the regional travel overview: Okres Žďár Nad Sázavou.