Wine Architectural Marvels under Pálava

Day one

For the first night, head to Hustopeče. You have several options to choose from, but we recommend the apartments at Vinařství Václav (Václav Winery). From the outside, the winery building blends harmoniously into the classic wine alley's appearance. Inside, however, you'll discover original details crafted from concrete, black metal, and wine bottles seamlessly integrated into the interior. The centerpiece of the space is the winding staircase that connects three dimensions - cellar spaces, a tasting room, and cozy apartments on the first and second floors.  After your tasting experience, you can retire directly to a comfortable bed for a restful night's sleep.

But first things first; there's so much to see in the surrounding area. Just over the hill from Hustopeče, you'll encounter another architectural gem – Vinařství Sonberk (Sonberk Winery), a pioneer and the first winery built right in the midst of the vineyards. From a distance, this unassuming building overlooks the glistening waters of Nové Mlýny and the Pálava landscape, a view it has been offering since 2007. It was designed by the renowned architect Josef Pleskot, and over the years, Sonberk has become an icon. Enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace or relax right among the vines.  Sonberk doesn't rest even in winter, regularly hosting tasting and guided walks in the area with intriguing stories to share. 

In the evening, it's the perfect time to sit down with the owners of Václav Winery, savour what has matured under the Moravian sun, and learn some behind-the-scenes insights into winemaking.

Day two

Start your day with breakfast at Mandlárna, Café Auspitz, or Amande Hotel. With renewed energy, your journey continues, and it's up to you whether you prefer to drive or cycle. Your first destination is the winery with a poetic name Přátelé Pavlova  (Friends of Pavlov). Arrange your visit with a tasting in advance or, during the summer, drop by for one of the outdoor cinema screenings hosted by the Pavlov friends. Inside, the design combines stark grey concrete with a prominent touch of wood. The architect thoughtfully considered the winery's location within the Pálava Protected Landscape Area, opting for a low-profile building with a subtly sloping roof that harmonizes with the natural terrain. The view of the Dívčí Hrady ruins is the proverbial cherry on top.

In Pavlov, architecture isn't solely the domain of winemakers. The local Archeopark rightfully earned the Czech Architecture Award in 2017. You absolutely mustn't miss this place because it's truly unique both on the outside and inside. Don't expect a mundane exhibition; instead, prepare for a substantial dose of interactive entertainment.

Once you emerge from history back to the present and realize it's time for lunch, you won't need to go far. Right by the Archeopark during the season, you'll find the foodtruck Karbar. Pre-order a picnic basket and relish a picnic with an iconic view. With your energy replenished, another architectural marvel awaits us!

Back in Hustopeče, on your way to the almond orchards and the lookout tower, make a stop at Starý vrch Winery. Outdoors, you'll revel in an oasis of tranquillity beneath the apricot trees' shade, and inside, you'll appreciate the clean, modern design, as well as the delightful wine and friendly service. The sunset vistas from the lookout tower will be a soul-soothing experience.

Day three

We're returning to the foothills of the Pálava mountains for another fresh design gem. Winebar Reisten in Pavlov is practically a neighbour to Přátelé Pavlova. From here and its spacious terrace, you'll enjoy magnificent views of the vineyards and the surrounding countryside. Be sure to check the wine bar's opening hours on Facebook. Inside, you'll be immediately captivated by the cleverly designed floor with the effect of spilled red wine. It's a paradise for design enthusiasts, and your Instagram feed will be brimming with captivating photos.

A fellow winery to the Reisten Winery is the Vinařství Kolby in Pouzdřany, which reopened after renovation in June 2023. And this refresh is a success! You'll be charmed by playful details such as samples of the soil from various vineyard plots and the immense cellar dating back to the era of Maria Theresa. To get the most accurate information about the wine bar and terrace's opening hours, it's advisable to check their Facebook page.

We'll wrap up the wonderful day on a festive note. That's what tasting dinners at Restaurant Essens are all about. It's not just a meal; it's an experience. Located in the Hraniční zámeček building, a classicist edifice dating back to 1827, you'll taste culinary heaven and savour an unforgettable evening. Remember to make a reservation, and note the smart-casual dress code is required.

For the final night, we recommend staying at the boutique hotel Villa Hrušky in the village of the same name. Before retiring for the night, stop by the adjacent Mlýn Hrušky for a glass of wine. This will give a peek into another successful design achievement. The grandson of the original owner of this historic mill has managed to rescue the building and breathe new life into it. Today, this modernized space serves as a café, bistro, wine bar, and a venue for private and corporate events.

Looking for even more inspiration for your architecturally enriched trips through Mikulov region and Velké Pavlovice region? The stories from Eliška and Ivanka's travels in June 2023 are saved in the "Wine and Architecture" collection on our Instagram profile @southmoravia.