At the southern tip of Moravia, between the Dyje and Morava rivers, lies a landscape of floodplain forests, wetlands, old river channels and broad meadows. Since 1 July 2025 it has been protected as the Soutok Protected Landscape Area, one of Czechia’s newest large protected landscapes.
Verified facts
- The Soutok Protected Landscape Area came into effect on 1 July 2025.
- AOPK gives an area of roughly 125 km² and describes a characteristic floodplain landscape around the confluence of the Dyje and Morava rivers.
- The area includes floodplain forests, meadows, oxbows, pools and other wetland habitats with exceptionally high biodiversity.
- AOPK publishes visitor suggestions, including the roughly 16 km “Louky plné života” route suitable for walking or cycling.
Why visit
The topic is also unusually current. The protected landscape was created only in 2025, and visitor information and infrastructure continue to develop. Terasy Sedlec can therefore provide a useful gateway while consistently directing travellers to the latest AOPK rules.
How to plan your visit
Do not drive onto forest or field tracks and do not park outside designated areas. Light fires only where explicitly permitted. Conditions in a floodplain can change with water levels, weather, forestry work and conservation measures, so check current notices from the Soutok administration before every trip.
Practical Terasy Sedlec tip
Terasy Sedlec is a convenient base between Mikulov, Valtice, Lednice and the Austrian border. For this trip, it is usually better to combine two or three geographically close places than to spend the day driving between distant attractions. Check current access and navigation before leaving; in protected areas, also check the latest rules and restrictions.
Who is this trip for?
Cyclists, walkers, birdwatchers, nature photographers and guests who want to discover the less familiar landscapes south of Břeclav.
What to combine on the same day
Pohansko near Břeclav is the natural geographical and thematic companion. For a full day, combine the history of Pohansko with an official nature route in the northern part of the protected area.
Frequently asked questions
When was CHKO Soutok created?
The protected landscape area came into effect on 1 July 2025.
Can I cycle through Soutok?
Yes, some recommended routes are suitable for walkers and cyclists. Stay on legal routes and follow any current restrictions.
Can I drive into the forest?
AOPK explicitly warns visitors not to drive off public roads, including onto forest and field tracks.
Is Soutok suitable in summer?
Yes, but expect heat, insects and possible changes in accessibility after heavy rain or high water.
What is most special about the area?
The mosaic of floodplain forest, meadows, pools and old river channels, together with ancient solitary oaks and very high species diversity.
What should I combine with the trip?
Pohansko near Břeclav and other nearby stops in the Břeclav area. For a first visit, it is sensible to follow an official AOPK route suggestion.
Stay at Terasy Sedlec
One trip is rarely enough. Turn South Moravia into a multi-day stay.
From Terasy Sedlec you can head in a different direction every day: Pálava, the Lednice–Valtice Cultural Landscape, wine villages or the Austrian Weinviertel. Instead of changing hotels, keep one peaceful base and build a different itinerary each day.
Explore the region without rushing.
Plan two, three or more days and mix the famous sights with smaller places that give the region its character.
Official sources
- https://soutok.aopk.gov.cz/
- https://soutok.aopk.gov.cz/poznejte-chko
- https://soutok.aopk.gov.cz/zakladni-pravidla-chovani-v-chko
Facts verified: 2026-09-17.