The Baťa Canal cycling route links Kroměříž and Hodonín through the Morava valley. Locks, canal structures and riverside towns give the journey its character, while connections to surrounding routes make it possible to add cultural stops or explore further into the hills.
Along the canal and Morava
VisitCzechia describes an approximately 80 km route between Kroměříž and Hodonín. The municipal tourist information centre in Uherské Hradiště identifies it on maps as cycle routes 4 and 4A. The route follows the wider waterway corridor, giving riders a view of both the canal and the River Morava.
The canal's locks and small houses associated with their operation recall its working past. VisitCzechia also highlights bridges, sluices and excavated canal sections, while the surrounding floodplain has protected habitats and educational trails.
Two directions from Uherské Hradiště
Uherské Hradiště is a useful base for choosing a section. Towards Kroměříž, the local tourist office suggests Staré Město, Spytihněv, Napajedla and Otrokovice. At Spytihněv, the canal separates from the Morava; the harbour area has a small hydroelectric power station and a rest area.
In the other direction, the office's suggestions include Uherský Ostroh, Veselí nad Moravou, Strážnice and Hodonín. Possible visits include the village museum at Strážnice and the Plže wine-cellar area in Petrov. At Sudoměřice, the Výklopník is a historic structure once used to transfer coal from railway wagons.
Riding conditions and connections
The Baťa Canal's own cycling guide describes the main route as almost flat and predominantly asphalt. It also identifies a short road section near Pahrbek by Napajedla and more use of local roads in the South Moravian part, so riders should not expect the whole journey to be traffic-free.
Connecting routes reach the Chřiby hills and the White Carpathians, with possible diversions to Buchlov Castle, Buchlovice Chateau or the archaeological open-air museum at Modrá. These are options beyond the main waterside ride rather than essential stops on it.
Planning a longer visit
The canal organisation also presents cycling loops around the main route for road, touring and mountain bikes. Its map distinguishes flat, rolling and hilly loops; the organisation cautions that these loops are not directly signposted throughout, although parts use marked cycling or walking routes.
A boat trip can be combined with cycling. The canal guide mentions boats adapted to carry bicycles, and the Uherské Hradiště tourist office points to regular sailing timetables. Check the relevant operator's arrangements before relying on a boat for a return journey.