Branky brings together a layered château history and the landscape along the Loučka. The château park is part of the cultural monument; the parish church, a statue of St John of Nepomuk, stream meanders and an ecologically significant pond complete the picture. When looking for a holiday apartment, it helps to distinguish between these highlights: architectural history, park and nature, or a cycling tour in the surrounding area.

Château Park and Cultural Monument

The château park in Branky is part of the cultural monument. The well-kept park includes numerous valuable trees and shrubs, a pond and a summer amphitheatre. The trees and water shape its landscape character, while the amphitheatre adds an architectural feature. The revitalised château park is fully accessible. Individual facilities may be maintained or altered; if a particular facility is important to your plans, check its current condition before your visit.

Two Châteaux, Different Building Phases

The so-called old château probably originated in the 18th century, when an earlier fortress was converted; it now serves as the municipal office. The new château has a different building history: František Erasmus Lockner z Lockenau had it built in the early 18th century as a Baroque knight’s residence. At the end of the 19th century, it acquired its present appearance through a historicist renovation under its owner at the time, Dr Hans Huber. In the 1930s, the sculptor and painter Josef Siegel created its unique interior at the request of the owner at the time. The Baroque origins, the later changes to the exterior and Siegel’s work inside therefore belong to different phases in the history of the new château.

Parish Church and Statue of St John of Nepomuk

The parish church of the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary was consecrated in 1787. In front of the church stands a statue of St John of Nepomuk dating from 1734, by Max. Lockner of Lokenav. The statue predates the church’s consecration, so the two dates mark different points in Branky’s religious history.

The Loučka and Areas of Special Natural Interest

Between Branky and Poličná, the meanders of the Loučka form a stretch almost two kilometres long. The protected kingfisher breeds in this corridor. Another natural feature is Modrý rybníček in Branky: it serves as a refuge for amphibians and is also of entomological importance. The two areas therefore have different focal points: the Loučka is known for its stream meanders and kingfisher, while the pond is notable for amphibians and entomology.

Cycling Routes to Branky

Two route options are described for cycling trips. Marked Route 6216 leads from Poličná along the Loučka stream to Branky. Another cycling route, approximately five kilometres long, runs from the Bečva Cycling Route via Abácie Park and Poličná, following the Loučka to Branky. The descriptions provide different planning details: Route 6216 names the starting point and the course along the stream; the second description also refers to the Bečva Cycling Route, Abácie Park and an approximate distance. Markings and route conditions may change; check the latest information before setting off.

Discover more destinations: Valašská Polanka, Bystřička, Střelná, Lužná U Vsetína, Hošťálková, Kladeruby, Valasske Mezirici, Prlov.

For the broader travel overview: Vsetín District.