Kaskáda u Starých hutí

Kaskáda u Starých hutí is a small but scenic cascade on an unnamed stream near Rejčkov, in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina) on the border between Bohemia and Moravia. Water tumbles roughly two meters over a granite bedrock step, right above the Kotrčův rybník pond and the historic Kotrčův mlýn watermill.

Where exactly is it?

The cascade sits between the hamlets of Staré Hutě and Dobrá Voda Lipnická, within the municipality of Kaliště (Pelhřimov district), in the part of Vysočina known as the Křemešnická vrchovina hills. The nearest reference village, Rejčkov, lies less than a kilometer away. The approximate GPS coordinates are 49°36'53"N, 15°19'25"E, easy to locate on Czech hiking maps or the mapy.cz app.

How do you get there?

There's no developed tourist infrastructure around the cascade, so the easiest approach is to drive to Rejčkov or Staré Hutě and continue on foot or by bike along local dirt roads and forest paths that follow the stream downhill. The terrain is hilly, typical of Vysočina, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The route runs through quiet, lightly visited rural and forested countryside — a draw in itself for anyone looking to get away from crowds.

What will you see there?

The cascade itself is about two meters high, with water flowing over a natural granite rock step characteristic of the geology of this part of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands. The flow is modest — averaging around 10 liters per second — so this is more of an intimate forest feature than a dramatic waterfall. Just below it lies the Kotrčův rybník pond, overlooked by the Kotrčův mlýn, a former watermill dating to the second half of the 19th century, built from local yellowish Lipnice granite. The mill underwent a thorough reconstruction between 2003 and 2005 that turned the former utility building into an elegant residence; its owners also restored or newly created three surrounding ponds and planted colorful forest trees and meadow wildflowers around the property.

When is the best time to visit?

Because the stream carries relatively little water, the cascade looks most impressive in spring after snowmelt, or after longer spells of rain, when the flow noticeably increases. In summer, during dry spells, the stream can shrink considerably. In autumn, the surrounding Vysočina forests turn characteristic colors, adding to the appeal of a walk here. In winter, access can be difficult because of snow on the unpaved local roads.

Who is this spot for?

This is a destination for people who enjoy quiet, little-known corners of nature rather than dramatic waterfalls. It works well as a stop on a longer hiking or cycling trip through Vysočina, combined with exploring the surrounding villages and forests.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is the cascade at Staré Hutě? It's about two meters high, flowing over a natural granite rock step.

Is there anything else to see nearby? Yes — right next to the cascade you'll find the Kotrčův rybník pond and the historic Kotrčův mlýn, a 19th-century watermill surrounded by ponds.

Is it easy to get there? The area has limited infrastructure — the best approach is to drive to Rejčkov or Staré Hutě and continue on foot or by bike along local roads.

When does the cascade look its best? In spring after snowmelt and after heavier rainfall, when the stream's flow is at its highest.