Rozhledna Vladimíra Menšíka

Rozhledna Vladimíra Menšíka rises on a hill just above the village of Hlína, in the Brno-venkov district of the South Moravian Region, at an elevation of 447.5 metres above sea level. This wooden observation tower, built on a solid reinforced-concrete foundation, has become a popular destination for anyone wanting sweeping Moravian views without heading into the mountains.

Why is the tower named after Vladimír Menšík?

The tower carries the name of Vladimír Menšík, a much-loved Czech actor and entertainer born in nearby Ivančice. Menšík was one of the most recognizable faces of Czech film and television, and locals chose to honor their native son by naming the newly built tower after him. Interestingly, the structure stands on a site where, back in 1910, the oldest observation tower in South Moravia is said to have stood — making today's tower a continuation of a much older tradition.

When was the tower built?

Work on the reinforced-concrete foundation began on 16 May 2005, and the tower was officially opened on 29 April 2007. Since then it has served as a local landmark and a favorite destination for day trips from both Ivančice and Brno.

What does the tower look like, and what will you see on the way up?

The tower is shaped like a rectangular prism and stands 22 metres tall. A total of 96 steps lead up to the viewing platform, positioned at a height of 20 metres. The climb is broken up by exhibits placed on the landings along the way, covering the cultural life of Hlína as well as interesting facts about Vladimír Menšík's life and career. That means the ascent doubles as a short lesson in local history, not just a physical challenge.

What can you see from the viewing platform?

From the top, visitors can take in views of the Pavlovské vrchy (Pavlovian Hills) and the Bílé Karpaty (White Carpathians). On especially clear days — which happen only a handful of times per year — the peaks of the Alps become visible in the distance. This rare chance to spot mountains hundreds of kilometres away is exactly why landscape photographers keep an eye on the forecast, waiting for that one perfectly clear day to make the trip worthwhile.

How do you get there, and when is it open?

A large parking lot right at the tower makes arriving by car straightforward, whether you're traveling with family or stopping mid-ride on a longer cycling route around Ivančice. The tower is open year-round, though its schedule shifts with the seasons: from November to March it opens only on Sundays, while during the summer holiday months it's open Tuesday through Sunday. It's worth checking the current opening hours before setting out, especially outside the summer season.

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Rozhledna Vladimíra Menšíka? The tower is 22 metres tall, with a viewing platform at 20 metres reached via 96 steps.

Why is the tower named after Vladimír Menšík? Menšík was a celebrated Czech actor from nearby Ivančice, and the local community honored him by naming the newly built tower after him when it opened in 2007.

When is the tower open? From November to March it's open Sundays only; during the summer holiday months it's open Tuesday through Sunday. It operates year-round on this seasonal schedule.

What views can you get from the tower? The Pavlovian Hills and White Carpathians are visible on most clear days, and on rare occasions — just a few times a year — even the peaks of the Alps come into view.