Several different themes to explore come together in Zádveřice-Raková: the history of the Protestant congregation, an exhibition about emigration to America, and trails to mineral springs. Cyclists will also find a specific point of reference: Cycle Route 471 runs through Zádveřice. For planning, it helps to consider the visiting options and the different trail lengths separately.
Church, bells and the history of emigration
The Protestant church in Zádveřice was rebuilt in its present form between 1860 and 1869, after the previous stone church burned down. Three bells hang in its tower and are still in use. Their eventful history is presented on panels in the entrance area. This includes the story of two bells that were confiscated in 1917 and saved in an unusual way: they remain in use as memorial bells.
A different way to discover the town’s history is the permanent exhibition about emigration from Zádveřice and the surrounding area to America. Its historical scope covers the 19th and 20th centuries. The exhibition is housed in the community center, also known as the vicarage of the Protestant congregation. Visits are possible by prior arrangement with the community or parish office. Be sure to arrange this part of your visit in advance.
Rural heritage in Raková
Rural architecture is also part of Raková’s character: numerous old wooden barns have been preserved there. The rural homestead No. 124 in Zádveřice-Raková has a special heritage designation. It is listed as an immovable cultural monument and is recorded in the Central List of Cultural Monuments of the Czech Republic under number 23021/7-2155. Those interested in architectural and local history will find another specific point of interest here, alongside the church’s history.
Nature park, viewpoint and springs trail
The cadastral area of Zádveřice-Raková lies within the Vizovické vrchy Nature Park. Across the wider landscape of the nature park, extensive wooded uplands characterize the area. Near Raková, the U křížku viewpoint offers views of the settlement, the surrounding area and the opposite main ridge of the Vizovické vrchy; it is also a rest stop. Below the lower edge of Raková there is also an old orchard, considered a local attraction. Check its condition when you get there.
The approximately two-kilometer-long “Chodníček za sirnými studánkami” trail runs one way and has two starting points and two stations. It leads to five mineral springs along the Horský potok. The first starting point is at the Zádveřice, paseky bus stop. From there, the trail leads to the U Staré Hájenky spring and continues to Sirkovica, about one kilometer farther on. Check the local signs before setting out.
Cycle Route 471 as a longer option
For a cycling trip, Route 471 is another option: it runs through Zádveřice along the connection between Otrokovice, Zlín and Vizovice and is approximately 30 kilometers long. This is considerably longer than the springs trail, which is about two kilometers one way. These details help you compare the two route options; check the current route before setting out on your ride.
This makes it easy to choose the focus of your stay: church history and emigration raise different questions for visitors than viewpoints, mineral springs or a longer cycle route. Prior arrangements are essential for the exhibition, while the trails provide specific guidance for route planning. Which of these themes you combine depends on how you would like to spend your time in Zádveřice-Raková.
Discover more destinations: Slavičín, Všemina, Lukov U Zlína, Podkopná Lhota, Sehradice, Bohuslavice Nad Vláří, Neubuz, Vlachovice
Return to the broader travel overview: Zlín District.
