My wife and I decided to embark on a trip to the hills of Southern Moravia, a place I had long envisioned as a prime photographic destination. This picturesque region, with its rolling landscapes and quaint villages, had been on my radar for quite some time, promising countless opportunities to capture the beauty of nature.
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Given its proximity to our home, it made for a convenient and enticing choice, especially in the early spring when the scenery comes to life with vibrant greenery and blooming flowers. The ease of travel and the anticipation of exploring a new, yet nearby, locale added to the excitement of our springtime adventure.
About the Destination of Southern Moravia
Nestled in the heart of the Czech Republic, Southern Moravia beckons with its breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts. Imagine wandering through sun-kissed vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see, capturing the golden hues of rolling hills, or finding inspiration in the intricate details of charming medieval towns. This region, with its enchanting castles, serene lakes, and picturesque villages, offers an endless array of captivating scenes waiting to be immortalized through your lens. Whether you're an amateur shutterbug or a seasoned professional, a few days in Southern Moravia promise a visual feast that will ignite your creative spirit and leave you with a gallery of unforgettable memories.
Moravia, by the way, is a historical region located in the southeastern part of the Czech Republic. Its capital is Brno, the second-largest city in the country, with a population of approximately 390,000 residents. The region is named after the Morava River, which flows southward through its territory. Moravia has a rich cultural and historical heritage, characterized by its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, and significant historical sites. Brno, as the central hub, is known for its dynamic cultural scene, historical architecture, and as a center of education and innovation in the Czech Republic.
For photographers, Southern Moravia near the city of Kyjov is the crown jewel of the region. This captivating area forms a triangle between the villages of Svatobožice, Čejč, and Žarošice. Nestled at the foothills of the Carpathians, it features gentle, undulating hills and expansive agricultural fields. These vast stretches are planted with cereals, buckwheat, and rapeseed, along with picturesque vineyards, creating a landscape reminiscent of Tuscany or the Palouse region. Instead of Tuscany’s iconic cypresses, you’ll encounter avenues lined with poplars, elms, and chestnuts. In place of the famed Italian villas, you’ll find numerous scenic chapels, often surrounded by trees. Come spring, the fields transform into a stunning mosaic of colors, with the intricate patterns visible through a telephoto lens resembling the abstract art of Rothko.
Our Accomodations - Pension Longus
I believe we booked our stay at the best guesthouse in the area when we chose Pension Longus in Kyjov city. At first glance, it seemed odd that the entrance was through a gateway of a building, but once we entered and settled in, we were relieved. The entire building belongs to the guesthouse, with a pastry shop on the ground floor where we could have breakfast, and across the square, there is a restaurant also belonging to the guesthouse, serving delicious meals.
The accommodation is evidently well-known among photographers, as we were not the only photographers staying there. In fact, we found ourselves in the midst of a photography workshop.
Situated just 42 km from Dinopark Vyskov and 49 km from Minaret, this 4-star guest house offers convenience and comfort with its array of amenities, including an elevator and luggage storage. Guests can enjoy complimentary WiFi, and private parking is available for an additional fee. By the way we parked in front of the Pension on the main square of the city - for free.
Each unit at Pension Longus is thoughtfully designed, featuring air conditioning, a cozy seating area, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Safety is ensured with a secure deposit box, and the private bathrooms come equipped with a shower, hairdryer, and complimentary toiletries. For those who prefer to prepare their own meals, the units also include a fully equipped kitchenette with a microwave, refrigerator, and minibar. Fresh bed linen and towels are provided for all guests.
Dining at Pension Longus is a delight, with a restaurant that serves delicious Italian cuisine. Open for dinner, lunch, and brunch, it offers a variety of dishes to suit every palate.
The photo spots we visited in Southern Moravia on this trip
Southern Moravia boasts an abundance of stunning photo spots, each offering a unique glimpse into its picturesque landscape and rich cultural heritage. During my brief trip, I endeavored to visit as many of these enchanting locations as possible. From the rolling vineyards and charming villages to the historical windmills, every place had its own distinct charm. Now, I'd like to share with you the best spots I managed to capture, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Southern Moravia's scenery. Join me on this visual journey through one of the most captivating regions in the Czech Republic.
Tsunami in Southern Moravia
The image known as "Tsunami" is a popular destination for photographers in Southern Moravia. Nestled within a vast panorama, it is not easy to spot, as it constitutes just a small detail of the whole landscape. However, a keen eye can easily pick it out. If we had visited just a week earlier, in early April instead of mid-April, we might have captured the tree in full bloom on the picture. Nevertheless, the scene still held its own charm. The location is a mere 10-minute drive from our accommodation, accessible entirely via paved roads.
Not far from there is the St. Barbara chapel. Unfortunately, our timing was not ideal for photographing this site. By mid-April, the rapeseed had already begun to bloom, but it grew patchily around the chapel, resulting in less-than-perfect photos that were not suitable for publication. I will need to return to this location in Southern Moravia at a more opportune time, hoping for better conditions. Perhaps then, with a bit more luck, I will capture the beauty I know this place holds. The enchanting allure of Southern Moravia always promises another chance for the perfect shot.
Magic Valley
Not far from the site of the Tsunami and St Barbara's Chapel, a small hilltop overlooks the village of Šardice and the hillside above. This enchanting place, known as Magic Valley, captivates with its serene beauty. I arrived a little late after sunrise, having spent the early morning at the previous location. Although the light was not ideal, a bit of post-production work allowed me to capture some of the valley’s intricate details. It's always about the details, those subtle touches that make a scene come alive.
Šardice village holds a special place in history, as it was here that Gregor Mendel, the scientist who laid the groundwork for the genetic rules of heredity, conducted some of his pioneering work. This little-known fact adds a layer of historical richness to the natural beauty of Southern Moravia.
On the wavy hill across the road, a short valley bordered by a diagonal line of trees catches the eye. In the morning and evening, the low sun highlights the undulating surface of the field, typically sown with cereals. To the right, a solitary tree stands in the middle of a lush green carpet, creating another stunning subject for photography. The play of light and shadow across the landscape is mesmerizing, especially during the golden hours.
Visiting this spot is a must in both morning and evening light, when the sun's rays glide gracefully across the green carpets covering the hill. Spring is undoubtedly the best time of year to witness this spectacle, but autumn has its own charm, painting the valley in warm hues. Southern Moravia’s Magic Valley is a place where nature and history intertwine, offering a peaceful retreat and a perfect canvas for capturing the timeless beauty of the region.
Chestnut Avenue
A little further away lies a place christened Chestnut Avenue. To capture this picturesque spot in a photograph, one must stop at the top of the hillside opposite, then descend a bit on foot through the fields to avoid the interference of electric cables. As we make our way down, the landscape unfurls before our eyes, framed by the chestnut trees lining the road. In the beautiful morning light, this view must be even more breathtaking, though I only managed to capture it in the harsh afternoon brightness. Next time, I'll plan my visit differently.
Southern Moravia holds a special charm that is both rustic and serene. Chestnut Avenue, nestled within this region, exemplifies this charm perfectly. The sight of chestnut trees standing proudly along the road is a testament to the timeless beauty of Southern Moravia. Each tree tells a story of resilience and grace, adding a unique texture to the landscape that is simply unparalleled. Even in the midday sun, when shadows are stark and colors intense, the avenue offers a glimpse into the soul of this enchanting region.
The allure of Southern Moravia lies not just in its landscapes but also in the moments of tranquility it offers. Standing amidst the chestnut trees, with the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant hum of rural life, one can feel a deep connection to the earth and its rhythms. It's a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor the beauty around you fully. Chestnut Avenue is a perfect representation of this timeless elegance, a place that calls you to return, again and again, to experience its magic in different lights and seasons.
Kunkovice Windmill
A visit to the windmill in Southern Moravia is an experience that's truly worthwhile. Located just a short drive from the center of the village, this picturesque spot is surprisingly easy to reach. As I ventured there, I was filled with anticipation, imagining the perfect shot of the windmill against the serene landscape. However, despite my excitement, I struggled to find the right angle to capture its beauty. My initial attempts were thwarted by the flatness of the upper field, which obscured the view.
Determined to find the perfect shot for my next visit, I discovered a valuable tip: the best vantage point is from the break where the slope becomes steeper. Walking along this break line, I could see how the perspective shifted dramatically, allowing the windmill to stand out against the smooth, uncluttered background of the fields. By carefully positioning my tripod and avoiding distracting elements like the village in the foreground or the forest in the background, I realized the power of a minimalist approach. This setting truly encapsulates the tranquility and elegance of Southern Moravia's landscapes.
The spot is particularly enchanting in early spring and late autumn, when the fields lie uncultivated and the scenery feels untouched. Visiting in the morning light is magical, but there's something uniquely captivating about the evening light, which casts a golden hue over the fields, enhancing the windmill's timeless charm. However, it's wise to avoid planning a shoot after heavy rain, as the fields can become treacherously muddy. Despite this, the effort to capture the perfect photograph in Southern Moravia is undoubtedly rewarding, leaving you with memories and images that echo the region's serene beauty.
Conclusion for our tour in Southern Moravia
In conclusion, our journey to the hills of Southern Moravia was nothing short of enchanting. The region, with its rolling landscapes, picturesque villages, and historical charm, provided a perfect canvas for capturing the beauty of nature through photography. Every location we visited, from the vineyards and chapels to the iconic windmills, offered a unique glimpse into the soul of this captivating area.
Our stay at Pension Longus in Kyjov added an extra layer of comfort and convenience to our adventure. The thoughtfully designed accommodations and the delicious meals made our stay memorable, while the presence of fellow photographers fostered a sense of community and shared passion.
The photo spots we explored, including the Tsunami, Magic Valley, Chestnut Avenue, and the Kunkovice Windmill, each held their own allure and challenge. Despite the occasional imperfections and timing mishaps, every moment spent in Southern Moravia was a learning experience, deepening our appreciation for its natural beauty and historical richness.
As we drove through sun-kissed vineyards and stood amidst fields of blooming rapeseed, we felt a profound connection to the land. The gentle rustle of leaves, the golden hues of the evening light, and the quiet charm of the villages left an indelible mark on our hearts. Southern Moravia is not just a destination for photographers; it's a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility and elegance of the landscape.
Our trip to Southern Moravia was more than just a photographic expedition; it was a journey of discovery and inspiration. The memories we created and the images we captured will forever remind us of the serene beauty and timeless charm of this extraordinary region. We leave with a promise to return, to explore more deeply, and to capture the ever-changing tapestry of Southern Moravia in all its seasonal splendor.
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