Discover Hrbov: Nature, Trails and Local History

Hrbov offers a range of interests for visitors: swimming at Gabčíkovo Pond, cycling on KČT Route No. 16, hiking along described sections, or exploring the chapel, cross stone and local history. These themes differ in terms of activity and location. Which ones you focus on depends on whether you want to visit the water, a cycling or hiking trail, or historical landmarks. For planning, consult the relevant information on bathing conditions, route layout and local connections.

Natural landmark and pond

An official access description from 2016 lists a local road in Hrbov as the way to reach a natural landmark: the memorial oak tree. Check road conditions before setting out, as they may change. An official document from 2016 reports that people from the wider area, including Polná, use Gabčíkovo Pond for swimming. Check current bathing conditions at the site before including the pond in your plans. These two natural destinations therefore involve different practical considerations: getting to the tree and swimming conditions at the pond.

Cycling and hiking

KČT cycling route No. 16 runs through Hrbov between Česká Jablonná and Polná. It follows paved paths, mostly asphalt roads, and is suitable for all types of bicycles. This describes both the route between the named places and a specific feature of its surface. The route and surface may change due to maintenance or detours, so check the current signs and route before setting out.

One described hiking route starts with a short stretch along the road from Hrbov towards Polná; at a junction, it turns sharply uphill between houses. Another described hiking route follows a sunken lane downhill to Hrbov and then continues to the village centre. The two routes differ in both surface and direction of elevation: one section follows a road and turns uphill, while the other follows a sunken lane and descends. Unlike the cycling route description, the hiking information focuses on individual turns and terrain features rather than bicycle types or the predominant road surface.

Chapel, history and cross stone

The Chapel of St. Lawrence, deacon and martyr, is located in the Hrbov district of the town of Polná, within the Hrbov cadastral area. Its location is thus specified by district, town and cadastral area. Hrbov probably originated during the colonisation of the 13th century and belonged to the Polná estate throughout the Middle Ages. The chapel can therefore be placed geographically, while the historical details provide a timeline from its probable origins to its medieval affiliation.

The Hrbov cross stone is located northeast of the village at a place called Dlouhé louky and is carved from hard sandstone. The northeast direction locates it in relation to the village, while Dlouhé louky gives a more precise location; the material is another specific feature of the stone. Unlike the chapel, which is located by its district and cadastral affiliation, the cross stone can be described by its direction, named location and material.

Discover more destinations: Bítovčice, Stonařov, Cejle, Dvorce, Panenska Rozsicka, Střítež, Vyskytná Nad Jihlavou, Švábov

For the broader travel overview: Jihlava District.