Doubravy: Village Culture and Landscape

Doubravy combines an agricultural landscape with distinctive examples of local architecture and long-standing customs. The village lies in the Vizovické vrchy hills. Meadow farming, open countryside and undulating terrain with gentle contours define its character. The undeveloped landscape is predominantly a mosaic of woodland, green corridors and grassland.

Landscape and Natural Area

Uhliska, a 14.25-hectare wetland along the floodplain of the Černý potok stream, lies in the northern part of Doubravy. The area belongs to the cadastral territory of Doubravy and is part of the Natura 2000 network; Uhliska is also in the immediate vicinity of the village. Protected species found there include the dusky large blue butterfly and the large copper butterfly. Alongside the agricultural landscape, this natural area is a distinct feature of the surroundings.

Cycling Route, Activities and Getting There

Regional cycling route 5055 runs from Topolná to Zlín through Doubravy, following roads used by local traffic. The landscape around Doubravy is suitable for short cycling trips, walks and agrotourism. Those wishing to explore the region by bike can follow this specific route, while walks and agricultural experiences offer other ways to spend leisure time.

For road access, road II/490 connects Doubravy to the main road network. There is also one bus stop with platforms on both sides of the road and another with a platform on one side in the village. These details provide a brief overview of the available road access and bus stops in the village; specific timetables are a separate matter.

Timber Architecture and Chapel

A distinctive structure is the wooden bell tower on a stone base in the western part of the village square. The small wooden structure has a square floor plan and a hipped roof. Two posts support the covered bell chamber. Its present form dates from 1848. The restoration preserved original building elements and traditional forms of folk architecture. The structure received an award in the regional “Village of the Year” competition in 2024.

The Chapel of St. Adalbert is a cultural monument of local significance and was consecrated in 2011. Inside is the painting “Průvod svatých” by academic painter František Peňáz. The chapel also has a bell tower with the bells Silvestr and Veronika. Mass is occasionally celebrated in the chapel, and worshippers also gather there to pray together.

Other Heritage and Local Customs

The built heritage also includes the old granary, the only agricultural building in Doubravy to have survived entirely in its original form, as well as five stone crosses in the built-up area. A monument to the victims of the First World War also stands there. Together with the chapel and the bell tower, these landmarks offer different insights into local architectural and commemorative culture.

Customs also shape the village's cultural character. The New Year custom “Podávání botů” involves boys visiting girls at their homes. Revived traditions include the spring festival “Pálení čarodějnic”. A summer show by brass bands is also a tradition in Doubravy.

A Christmas gathering at the chapel is also part of local tradition: people come together for a programme by the Doubravjánek children's folk ensemble, sing Christmas carols and celebrate a living nativity scene. Local customs thus connect different seasons with music, communal singing and festive gatherings.

Discover more destinations: Drzkova, Sehradice, Vlachova Lhota, Nedašov, Ludkovice, Spytihněv, Velký Ořechov, Jasenná.

For the broader travel overview: Zlín District.