Exploring Slovácko sub-region for exceptional wine and architecture

Slovácko is a region rich in living folk traditions that are deeply cherished by the locals. Are you envisioning one painted cellar with colourful ornaments after another? Well, they are certainly here. However, let’s talk about wineries within the modern concept, ranging from the austere Nordic simplicity to a mill that no longer serves its original purpose.

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Choosing grapes over pears

Our first destination takes you to the wine-growing village with the charming name Hrušky ( “Pears”). Here you will discover a place with a fresh ambiance for wine tasting. Villa Hrušky vibrates  positive energy and the serenity of its enclosed grounds perfectly complement  the intimate atmosphere of a boutique guesthouse. If you're searching for the ideal spot to savor local wine, look no further. Enjoy wines carefully selected by the sommelier from the Podluží region. Feel free to bring your bikes and hit the local cycle path – Villa offers beautiful accommodation. In the evening, you can enjoy a game of pétanque on the floodlit playground.

Furthermore this building boasts a captivating history. The miller's family had a vision of constructing a family house in close proximity to the mill. However, before its completion, the mill was seized after the events of February 1948, leaving the house unfinished. It was only recently that their grandson took charge and finally completed the project! The communal part of the house comprises the originally planned stables, while the original farm building exudes a colonnade-like charm with its steel columns and timeless wooden elements. The collaboration between skilled craftsmen and architects Pelčák and Vořechovská has resulted in a harmonious masterpiece, where the well-designed garden invites you to enjoy various activities. The thoughtful interplay of architecture and nature is truly a sight to behold.

Love industrial style? Pop up in the Mill

Just a short 70 metres away, you'll discover the enchanting Mlýn Hrušky (Hrušky Mill)), a must-see for its breathtaking interior done in a pure industrial style. Concrete, bricks, metal elements, and wood seamlessly blend together, creating a mesmerising ambiance. And rest assured, hunger and thirst won't be an issue here. While the mill's original purpose was replaced by a feed mill during the communist era, it has now been repurposed to host a delightful range of establishments including a bistro, wine bar, café, and breakfast room.

The masterful design work, once again led by Pelčák and partner architects, highlights a meticulously restored distinctive brick facade, complemented by a new roof. Outside, you can choose to spend  your time in the garden, where seating is available on both sides of the Mill. You can either observe the lively activity of Hrušky's main street or immerse yourself in the serene tranquillity of the garden on the opposite side.

The bistro that outshines any restaurant

In Čejkovice, wine enthusiasts are spoiled for choice, but for those who appreciates timeless design and minimalist aesthetics, the Škrobák family winery Škrobák family winery is an absolute must-visit. Its elegant dark facade artfully contrasts with the lush green surroundings. The Škrobák family embraced a distinctly modern approach both in the winery's design and its combination of wine and gastronomy. The basement houses the wine production, the ground floor is dedicated to wine tasting and gastronomy, and upstairs offers boutique hotel accommodation. The wine bistro pairs fine wine with thoughtfully prepared dishes made with local ingredients. The stylishly clean setting enhances the overall dining experience to perfection.

To bring this contemporary vision to life, the renowned  ID_arch studio, led by Architect Ivana Dombková, brought its modern touch and expert craftsmanship. Their brilliance lies in artful fusion of tradition and modernity, where wood, a fundamental element, harmoniously blends with luxurious blacks and cutting-edge materials and technologies.

The result is a fresh interpretation of the traditional art of winemaking, in line with the family's innovative vision. A visit to the Škrobák winery promises an unforgettable journey through both the time-honoured craft of wine and the boundless possibilities of modern design.

About three barns and colourful “luxfer” bricks

In the neighbouring Starý Poddvorov, pay a visit to the the Krásná hora winery. This time, on the contrary, you will find a snow-white neo-rustic complex - actually, three distinct buildings. To seamlessly integrate the new architecture  into the surroundings, architect Tomáš Havlíček from the the Létající inženýři studio envisioned it as a trio of barns with a gable roof. He set them so harmoniously within the original development that he received several architectural awards for them, including the 3rd prize for the best new building in a historic environment from the Za starou Prahu Club. Rumour has it that, for a while, more architects than wine connoisseurs flocked to the winery to marvel at its splendid design.

Tomáš Havlíček added a touch of late socialist Moravian village charm by integrating “luxfer” glass bricks into the architecture - a bold move that initially raised eyebrows among the client. However, when they witnessed the brilliant rendering, they were convinced. Specially crafted openings in the facade serve as portals, allowing the sun to illuminate the interior like enchanting stage spotlights.

For a truly indulgent wine experience, head to the second floor, where the main seating area awaits. Through a grand glass wall and a terrace, you'll be treated to lavish views of the surrounding vineyards. Krásná hora elevates the wine experience, offering an impressive selection of local varieties such as Pinot Gris or Noir, Gewurztraminer, and Merlot. It's a must-visit for any wine enthusiast.

To ensure your perfect visit to Krásná hora, it's advisable to arrange your trip in advance with the welcoming owners.

Tuscan oasis for Moravian day-trippers

During our wine-architectural journey, we arrive in Archlebov. While it may seem like a detour, we highly recommend making it your perfect ending point or even a separate trip. Dreaming of a holiday in Tuscany that hasn't come true just yet? Look no further than the SPIELBERG winery! There's nothing quite like it in all of Moravia. It's almost unbelievable that this place used to be a cultural house with typical socialist architecture back in the '70s. Now, it has transformed into a winery that captures the true Tuscan spirit, complete with charming arcades, wooden shutters, and terracotta pots…you almost expect to hear Italian from the staff. After all, the Moravian Tuscany region begins just a few kilometres away.

The creative mind behind this breathtaking complex is architect Ondřej Bořil. With an exquisite Tuscan influence, the surrounding buildings and gardens seamlessly blend into the enchanting landscape.  At the heart of the winery lies the Crystal Hall, adorned with refined crystal chandeliers that grace the space. During your visit, you'll have multiple delightful options for wine tasting. On a pleasant day, you can unwind in one of the comfortable loungers on the stone terrace. Alternatively, depending on the weather, you can choose the modern Degustarium, where you can immerse yourself in the legends associated with the local vineyards through a beautifully hand-drawn illuminated map. For more extended tasting experience and to savor the local specialty, Sautéed Fallow Deer in Red Wine, head to the traditional cellar.

Where to eat along the way

In addition to the wineries themselves, you can rejuvenate your journey by dining in the beautiful interiors and exteriors of the Sonnentor café in Čejkovice or at the Yalla cocktail bar in Kyjov. If you're eager to extend your adventure beyond Archlebov and explore limitless possibilities, don't miss the opportunity to relish a fantastic meal at Bukovanský mlýn, Kyjov brewery, Pražírna (Roastery) Kyjov, or Prostě burger

What else to explore along the way

The Sonnentor herb paradise in Čejkovice now offers a brand new tour circuit. From there, take a leisurely stroll to discover the charming T.G.M. House,  once the residence of the family of Czechoslovak president Masaryk. Are you fan of lookout towers? The Súsedská lookout tower lookout tower in the Kyjov region near Hýsly is an architectural gem! At the Bukovanský mlýn, treat yourself not only to delectable Moravian-style cuisine but also enjoy entertainment for both yourself and the little ones. As you venture to the SPIELBERG winery in Archlebov, you'll find yourself within easy reach, perhaps even walking distance, of Ždánice, a small town with a big heart. At the local château, prepare to be fascinated, as it houses the captivating Vrbas Museum, far from any dull tour. Just on the outskirts of Ždánice, visit the observatory for a day of sun observation.


Tips for trips

Ist Ihnen das Thema des Artikels unter die Haut gegangen? Did you get the topic of the article under your skin? Enough theory. Come and discover South Moravia by yourself.

 

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