Baťa Canal
Perhaps the name Baťa does not need to be introduced to anyone in the Czech Republic, but often even abroad. The name of this famous shoemaker and entrepreneur is also borne by the navigation canal on the Morava River, although it is officially called the Waterway of the Morava River and the Otrokovice-Rohatec Canal. In the past, this water route was used for freight transport, but for a long time it has only made tourists happy. They can enjoy a ride, rent their own boat for just a few hours, or choose a houseboat and spend the whole holiday on the water. Explore this interesting technical monument and its surroundings.
Information for visitors
Interesting facts Baťa Canal
The idea of navigating the Morava River is relatively old, this idea began to be discussed in the 17th century. Nevertheless, it was not realized until the first half of the 20th century, and it was Tomáš Baťa who was aware of the economic importance of this work. Thanks to his great influence, he advocated the approval of a project to navigate the Morava River. Although Mr. Baťa died in 1932, his son continued negotiations with the government and the company finally managed to complete the plan. The waterway was built in the years 1934-1938, partly financed by the company Baťa.
The length of the Baťa canal is currently 53 km from Otrokovice to Skalica in Slovakia, in some places the road leads through the Morava River and elsewhere through artificially excavated canals. The navigability of the route is ensured by 13 floating chambers and along the way people can use 8 ports and 16 docks. There are a number of boat rentals along the entire length of the river. You don't even have to have a special card to drive the smaller and weaker ones, so after a little training, practically anyone can go on a cruise. If you do not feel like a captain, you can take advantage of regular tourist cruises. In the docks you will find all social facilities, including pubs, restaurants and accommodation options.
At the Baťa canal you will find many destinations for trips of all kinds. A popular cycle path from Kroměříž to Hodonín leads around the canal. You can also visit a number of cultural monuments around the canal route, such as the town of Uherské Hradiště, Buchlovice chateau, Buchlov castle, chateau and gardens in Kroměříž, the Strážnice open-air museum, the Modrá archaeological museum or the Velehrad pilgrimage site. The area is also interwoven with wine trails and wine cellars.
Author: Martina Limbergová