Tlustá hora

Tlustá hora is a modest but well-known hill rising 458 meters above sea level right on the southern edge of Zlín. The name translates loosely as "fat mountain," which overstates things a little — this is a forested hilltop rather than a true mountain — but for locals it remains one of the most recognizable landmarks around the city and a favorite destination for a walk at any time of year.

How do you get to Tlustá hora?

Because the hill sits within Zlín's city limits, getting there is straightforward. Marked hiking trails and walking paths lead up from the city center, and most visitors reach the top on foot in under an hour. The route is popular with families, joggers, and cyclists alike, offering a short but rewarding climb without having to leave town. Drivers can park at the base of the hill and continue the rest of the way on foot.

What will you find at the top?

Tlustá hora's history as a destination goes back to the 1920s. When the Zlín branch of the Club of Czech Tourists was founded in 1926 — with Tomáš Baťa himself among its founding members — the idea arose to build a mountain lodge with an observation tower on the summit. The cornerstone was laid ceremonially during the May Day celebrations of 1927.

A few years later, in 1933, plans shifted toward a steel tower: a 42-meter structure designed by engineer Vtelenský, with a viewing platform at 36 meters. From May 1, 1933, the tower — known locally as the Maják, or "Beacon" — served visitors as an observation point. Curiously, from 1934 until the outbreak of World War II, a small zoo even operated at the base of the tower, a quirky chapter of local history that few remember today.

None of that original observation tower survives now. A telecommunications transmitter stands on the same spot, and since 1965 the site has hosted a relay station operated by Czech Radiocommunications, its mast visible from a considerable distance across the hill. Even without the historic tower, the hill remains a popular outing thanks to its views over Zlín and the surrounding countryside, and the quiet, wooded atmosphere along the way up.

What can you do there?

The slopes of Tlustá hora are home to a "Stezka zdraví," or health trail — a walking path fitted with simple exercise stations that encourage visitors to combine fresh air with light physical activity. It's a good spot for a brisk, short outing paired with some exercise, and it draws plenty of Zlín residents looking for an easy escape from the city without having to travel far.

When is the best time to visit?

Tlustá hora is accessible year-round, but spring and summer draw the most visitors, when the forest is at its greenest and the paths are dry and easy to walk. Autumn brings pleasant walks through colorful foliage, while winter tends to be quieter at the top — though snow can make the steeper stretches of trail trickier to manage.

Frequently asked questions

Is there still an observation tower on Tlustá hora? No. The historic tower known as the Maják, built in 1933, no longer stands. A telecommunications transmitter, in place since 1965, now occupies the site.

How long does it take to reach the summit? From central Zlín, the walk usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the route and pace chosen.

Is the trail suitable for children? Yes, the paths are well-marked and not overly steep, making them a good option for families with children.

What else is worth seeing nearby? The hillside features a health trail (Stezka zdraví) with exercise stations, a nice addition for visitors who want a bit more activity along with the walk.