THE PUNKVA CAVE, MACOCHA ABYSS and the PERNSTEJN CASTLE

Exploring Moravia becomes effortless with this 9-hour private tour starting from Brno, offering a seamless journey through some of the region’s most iconic sights. For $201.98 per person, visitors enjoy an intimate experience with guiding in English, comfortable air-conditioned transportation, and visits to the Pearl of Moravia, the Macocha Abyss, the captivating Punkva Caves, and the historic Pernstejn Castle. This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate a mix of natural wonders and medieval architecture, with group discounts available and mobile tickets for convenience.

While the tour offers a rich collection of highlights, keep in mind that entry fees to the Macocha Abyss, gondola, and castle are paid separately, adding to the overall experience. The full-day itinerary is packed with walking and some stairs but is perfect for travelers eager to see Moravia’s most remarkable landmarks without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Private guided tour from Brno with English-speaking guides and air-conditioned transport
• Visits to Krtiny village with its Baroque church and Premonstratensian monastery
• Explore the Moravian Karst, including the Macocha Abyss and the Punkva Caves
• Climb or take a cable car to the bottom of the Macocha Abyss, about 123 meters deep
• Tour the medieval Pernstejn Castle and possibly stop at the Poerta Coeli convent
• Admission fees for some sites are paid separately (around EUR 8–$8), so budget accordingly

Starting at Krtiny: The Pearl of Moravia

The tour begins in the tiny village of Krtiny, where the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary captures attention with its enormous Baroque architecture. This pilgrimage site is called the Pearl of Moravia for good reason. The site also features an ossuary with twelve skulls marked with the letter “T,” visible below the church, adding a touch of local mystique. Admission is free, making this a quick but striking introduction to the region’s religious architecture.

The monastery and its surrounding buildings dominate the landscape, offering a vivid visual contrast to the small village. The visit provides insight into Moravian religious traditions and the region’s historical significance.

Moravian Karst: Caves and Gorges

Next, the tour ventures into the Moravian Karst, a renowned nature reserve filled with limestone caves and dramatic geological formations. The main highlight is the Punkva Cave, where a guided English tour lasts about an hour. Visitors should dress warmly, as the temperature stays around 6 degrees Celsius year-round. The caves feature impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and the guide points out interesting formations and features during the tour.

The tour concludes with a surprise at the end of the cave, which remains a secret to keep the element of excitement. After the cave exploration, visitors hop onto a cable car, which takes approximately a minute to ascend to the top of the Macocha Abyss—a gorge about 123 meters deep. At the top, there’s an opportunity to enjoy refreshments while taking in views of the gorge below.

For those eager to stretch their legs, a 45-minute walk back to the cave entrance is available along a designated trail. Alternatively, visitors can return via gondola and electric train, providing flexibility based on preference and energy levels.

Lunch Break with Czech Cuisine

Following the cave and gorge exploration, the tour includes a lunch stop featuring traditional Czech dishes such as goulash, pork, and schnitzel, with local beer to complement the meal. The lunch spot offers a chance to relax and soak in the regional flavors before heading to the next highlight of the day.

Pernstejn Castle: Medieval Splendor

The afternoon is dedicated to Pernstejn Castle, a medieval fortress set amidst dense forested areas. The castle boasts beautiful architecture and a well-preserved structure, making it a popular destination among Czech castles. The guided 60-minute tour offers insights into the history and architecture of this medieval stronghold.

On the way, the group may stop at the Poerta Coeli convent in Predklasteri, founded in the 13th century by Constance of Hungary. The Gothic church within the convent is regarded as one of the most beautiful examples of Gothic architecture in the country. The drive to the castle location takes about 45 minutes through a scenic valley dotted with quaint villages and a covered bridge.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour departs from Brno and returns to the same meeting point, offering round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The guide leads the group in English, providing informative commentary throughout the day. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a personal experience.

While admission fees to the Macocha Abyss, gondola, and castle are not included (approximately EUR 8 or $8 each), the overall experience offers excellent value considering the full-day itinerary and expert guidance.

Travelers are advised to book around 28 days in advance, as the tour is popular. The activity runs Monday through Friday, with flexible start times between 6:00 AM and 11:00 PM. The tour includes pickup options and group discounts, making it a convenient choice for visitors staying in Brno.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Based on extensive reviews, the guides are highly praised for their expertise, warmth, and attentiveness. Guides like Helena and Denik are credited with providing interesting insights and making the day enjoyable. Many comments highlight the guides’ extensive local knowledge, their good English skills, and their willingness to show extra sites or provide helpful tips.

Travelers mention the guide’s personality—fun, warm, and engaging—which helps make the long day comfortable and memorable. The dog Marco even adds extra entertainment, according to some feedback.

Considerations and Tips for Participants

This tour involves a fair amount of walking and stairs, which is worth noting if mobility is a concern. Visitors should bring warm clothes for the caves and dress comfortably for walking. The separate entry fees for the Macocha Abyss, gondola ride, and castle tour are additional expenses to plan for.

The full-day nature of the tour means it’s best suited for travelers eager to see multiple landmarks without the hassle of organizing transportation or guides independently. The private setting ensures a more personalized experience, but flexibility in timing and site visits may be limited by site opening hours and logistics.

Final Thoughts on the Moravian Landmark Tour

This all-in-one day trip from Brno offers a compelling mix of natural wonders and historic architecture. The guided approach ensures that each location’s significance is well explained, making it ideal for those interested in history, geology, and regional culture.

While the entry costs are separate, the overall value remains strong given the expert guidance, comfortable transport, and diverse stops. The high ratings and positive reviews underscore the tour’s reputation for quality and reliability.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure travelers looking for a well-organized, comprehensive day trip that covers Moravia’s most captivating sights in one go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, making travel between stops smooth and comfortable.

Are the entry fees to the Macocha Abyss, gondola, and castle included?
No, these additional entry fees (about EUR 8 / $8 each) are paid separately by participants at the sites.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
While the guide mentions walking and some stairs, the caves and castle involve some walking. Participants should be prepared for physical activity and check their mobility levels accordingly.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring warm clothes for the caves, comfortable walking shoes, and cash or cards for the site entry fees. A camera, water, and sun protection are also recommended.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 28 days in advance is advised, as the tour is popular and can fill up quickly.

What sets this tour apart from others in the region?
The private guided experience, combined with expert guides, diverse landmarks, and comprehensive itinerary makes this tour a standout choice for those wanting a hassle-free day exploring Moravia’s highlights.