Planning Your Svatý Kopeček Adventure

Before you head out, it helps to know what to expect. Svatý Kopeček is often called the "Holy Hill." It has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. Today, it balances its religious roots with modern outdoor fun. You can easily spend a full day here. Most people start at the zoo and then wander into the woods.

Getting there is very simple from the city center. You can take a local bus or drive your own car. The area is quite walkable once you arrive. However, some forest paths can be steep. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the trails. The hill offers great views of the Haná region below.

• Best overall: Zoo Olomouc
• Best for families: The Zoo Lookout Tower
• Best for peace: Wolker’s Path forest trail
• Best for history: Basilica of the Visitation

If you have extra time, consider looking for hidden gems in Olomouc before your climb. The city has many secrets to discover. Combining nature with urban history makes for a great trip. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go. The trails can be muddy after a heavy rain.

10 Best Svatý Kopeček Zoo and Forest Trails Highlights

This list covers the most popular spots and some quiet corners. Each entry helps you plan your time effectively. You will find a mix of animals, history, and nature. Many of these locations are close to each other. This makes it easy to see several in one afternoon.

1. Name: Zoo Olomouc Type: sight Why go: It features over 400 species in a natural forest setting. Best for: Families and animal lovers. Where: Main hilltop area. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate entry fee. Getting there: Bus 11 from the main station. Tip: Visit the shark tank near the entrance first.
2. Name: Basilica of the Visitation of the Virgin Mary Type: sight Why go: This Baroque masterpiece is a landmark of the Czech Republic. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Top of the hill. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Short walk from the bus stop. Tip: Check for organ concerts during summer months.
3. Name: Zoo Lookout Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers a 360-degree view of the Olomouc region. Best for: Panoramic photography. Where: Inside the zoo grounds. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included with zoo ticket. Getting there: Follow signs within the zoo. Tip: Go at sunset for the best light.
4. Name: Wolker’s Path (Wolkerova stezka) Type: forest trail Why go: A peaceful trail named after a famous Czech poet. Best for: Quiet walks and reflection. Where: Starts near the Basilica. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Clearly marked trailheads. Tip: Look for the small poems carved along the way.
5. Name: Fort Radíkov Type: day trip Why go: A 19th-century artillery fort that is part of the city's defense history. Best for: Military history enthusiasts. Where: 2km from Svatý Kopeček. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Small entry fee for tours. Getting there: Hike the green trail from the zoo. Tip: You can learn more about visiting abandoned Olomouc fortress forts online.
6. Name: Kartuzka Nature Trail Type: forest trail Why go: It winds through deep beech forests with educational signs. Best for: Nature education and hikers. Where: Northern side of the hill. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the blue trail markers. Tip: Great for birdwatching in the early morning.
7. Name: The Pilgrimage Path from Samotišky Type: experience Why go: Walk the traditional route taken by pilgrims for centuries. Best for: Active travelers and pilgrims. Where: Connects Samotišky village to the Basilica. Time: 1 hour (uphill). Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the base of the hill in Samotišky. Tip: Stop at the lime tree alleys for shade.
8. Name: Mariánské Údolí Trail Type: nature Why go: A scenic route that follows a stream through a lush valley. Best for: Cooling off on hot summer days. Where: Starts at the bottom of the hill. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via local train to Hlubočky. Tip: The path is mostly flat and easy for kids.
9. Name: Svatý Kopeček Bailiff's House (Fojtství) Type: sight Why go: A historic building showing local rural life and architecture. Best for: Culture seekers. Where: Near the Basilica entrance. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Central village area. Tip: It is a great spot for traditional photos.
10. Name: Toveř Forest Path Type: forest trail Why go: A less crowded route through dense woodland. Best for: Escaping the zoo crowds. Where: East of the zoo. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow markers from the zoo exit. Tip: Bring water as there are few shops here.

Exploring the Best Forest Trails Near Svatý Kopeček

The Svatý Kopeček zoo and forest trails are interconnected in a vast network. You can choose short loops or long day hikes. Most paths are well-marked by the Czech Hiking Markers System. Look for the colored stripes on trees and poles. Red and blue trails usually cover longer distances. Yellow and green trails are often shorter local loops.

Walking through these woods is very relaxing. The air is clean and the trees are tall. In autumn, the colors are truly spectacular. You might even spot local wildlife like deer or foxes. Always stay on the marked paths to protect the environment. This helps preserve the beauty for future visitors in 2026.

If you enjoy greenery, you might also like Bezrucovy Sady botanic gardens in the city. Both locations offer a break from the pavement. However, Svatý Kopeček feels much more wild. It is the perfect place to test your hiking boots. Many trails are also suitable for mountain biking.

Practical Tips for Visiting Olomouc and Svatý Kopeček

To make the most of your trip, arrive early. The zoo gets very busy on weekends. Weekdays are much quieter for hiking the forest trails. You can find several small restaurants near the Basilica. They serve traditional Czech meals and snacks. It is a great place to try local flavors.

Don't forget to try the famous local cheese in town. You can find where to eat authentic Olomouc cheese in our other guides. It has a very strong scent but tastes unique. After your hike, a hearty meal is well-deserved. Many cafes also offer great views of the valley below.

For more culture, visit the St. Michael's Church bell tower back in the city. It offers a different perspective of the skyline. Olomouc is a city of towers and history. Svatý Kopeček is just one part of its charm. Use the Olomouc Tourism Portal for the latest event schedules. They have updated info for all 2026 travelers.