Cycling the Moravian Karst: the Blansko–Křtiny–Jedovnice loop (23 km)

Cycle route no. 5081 (23 km) runs from Blansko via Habrůvka, Křtiny and Bukovina to Jedovnice, mostly along forest tracks across the plateau between the heart of the karst and Jedovnice. The surface is largely unpaved, so it’s better suited to a mountain or trekking bike than a road bike — though in dry weather a road bike will just about manage it. The toughest stretch is the climb between Blansko and Klepačov; the rest of the route is gently undulating forest terrain. Along the way you’ll pass the pilgrimage site of Křtiny, and the route finishes by the Olšovec pond in Jedovnice.

QUICK LINKS 🚴 Route and difficulty · 🏛️ What to see along the way · 🗺️ More cycle routes nearby · ❓ FAQ

The Moravian Karst has over 700 km of signposted cycle routes, but route no. 5081 is one of the best at showing that the karst isn’t just about caves — it runs almost the entire way through the deep forest of the plateau between Blansko and Jedovnice.

Route and difficulty

The route measures 23 km and follows forest tracks and minor roads, mostly unsurfaced. The going can be rough in places, so it’s best suited to mountain and trekking bikes — you’ll only manage it on a road bike in dry weather. The difficulty is moderate, with the hardest section coming right at the start: a steep, winding climb between Blansko and Klepačov (ridden in the other direction, i.e. downhill, this stretch can actually be dangerous given the speed and surface).

Once you’ve tackled the initial climb, the route continues over gently rolling forest terrain through Habrůvka, Křtiny and Bukovina all the way to Jedovnice.

What to see along the way

• Blansko — the starting point, with several cultural landmarks; if you’re arriving by train, this is where you’ll begin.
• Habrůvka and the plateau forests — the most attractive natural stretch of the route, through the dense woodland of the central Moravian Karst.
• Křtiny — an important pilgrimage site with the Baroque Church of the Name of the Virgin Mary, designed by Jan Blažej Santini, a perfect spot for a rest stop.
• Jedovnice — the finishing point by the Olšovec pond, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim after the tougher stretches or grab a bite at one of the lakeside restaurants.

More cycle routes nearby

If 23 km isn’t enough for you, or you fancy something different:

• Route no. 5077 (14 km) — Adamov–Josefov–Křtiny Arboretum–Jedovnice, a shorter and easier alternative.
• Route no. 5075 (27 km) — Sloup–Šošůvka–Vysočany–Niva, taking in the northern karst around the Sloup-Šošůvka Caves.
• Moravian Amber Trail, route no. 507 (52 km) — a full-day outing for stronger cyclists.
• Pustý žleb Gorge — 8 km on tarmac, an easy option suitable for families with children too; see our separate guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can you ride route 5081 on an ordinary road bike? Only in dry weather — the surface is largely unpaved, so a mountain bike or trekking bike is a better choice.

Is the route suitable for families with children? Not really, given the steep climb near Klepačov and the unpaved surface — for families we’d recommend Pustý žleb Gorge or the shorter route 5077 instead.

Where can you stop for food along the way? The finish at the Olšovec pond in Jedovnice has several restaurants right by the water, a great spot to rest after the ride.

Can the route be shortened? Yes — you can finish at Křtiny and take the train or bus back if 23 km feels like too much.

Part of our series A week in the Moravian Karst: the complete 7-day itinerary. Sources: cyklo-jizni-morava.cz – route 5081, vylety-zabava.cz – Moravian Karst cycle routes.