To the Zboženské ponds

A pleasant woodland walk from Jižní Svahy to the peaceful Zboženské ponds takes you into nature just a short distance from the city. At the destination, a quiet valley with ponds surrounded by forest awaits – ideal for relaxation or a brief escape from the urban bustle.

The route starts in Jižní Svahy, the largest housing estate in Zlín. From the Kocanda public transport turning circle, served by trolleybuses no. 6 and 8, we follow the blue hiking trail heading into the countryside. Right at the beginning, you may be pleasantly surprised by grazing sheep – something few people would expect to see here. Along the way, we come across several stopping points with thematic information boards introducing the local forest and forestry activities of the Forests of the Czech Republic state enterprise.

Following the blue trail, we reach the Pod Rozhlednou signpost, where we join the yellow trail, which leads us all the way to the four Zboženské ponds. The path towards them winds through woodland, where an observant eye may notice several anthills along the edges of the trail. Along the way, several shelters can also be used for a short stop, making ideal spots for a rest and a snack.

As soon as we reach the ponds, a picturesque, quiet valley opens up before us, surrounded by the dense forests of the Mladcovské hills. The water’s surface reflects the surrounding trees, birdsong fills the air and fish glide silently beneath the surface. The ponds are not only home to fish and amphibians but also to waterfowl, and they are a popular destination for anglers and nature lovers alike. Their name recalls the vanished village of Zbožná, which once stood here. Today, it is a place where you can forget about the noise of the city and let nature embrace you.

We continue along the yellow trail to Mladcová, from where we can comfortably return by public transport to the centre of Zlín.