Drslavice: Pepčín, Traditions and Nature

Drslavice can be explored through a range of themes: the history of the former Pepčín chateau, local traditions and nature. When planning your trip, it helps to keep these interests distinct: the Chapel of Our Lady of Svatý Hostýn is in the village centre, while Pepčín is associated mainly with its former location in the Obora forest. Suggested routes and events, in turn, each have their own focus.

Pepčín and local history

The Chapel of Our Lady of Svatý Hostýn is Drslavice’s most important cultural monument and stands in the village centre. Pepčín tells a different story about the village’s past: Count JUDr. Václav Kounic had the chateau built from 1903 as a summer residence in the Obora forest near Drslavice. It was demolished in 1981; only a clearing remains at its former site. Visitors interested in Pepčín will therefore encounter the history of a vanished building and the place where it once stood.

A new recreational area has been taking shape at the former site since 2018. This means the place brings together two periods: the former summer residence and the more recent development of a visitor destination. By contrast, the chapel in the village centre and the clearing in the forest represent different points of reference in Drslavice’s history.

Nature and routes

A pond in the Obora forest is home to rare amphibian species. The Terasy Natural Monument is one of the last refuges for endangered warmth-loving plant species on the right-bank terraces of the Olšava, as well as for the insect species associated with them. Its ecological focus is therefore on plant habitats and the insects connected with them.

A suggested route to the Vrhové Steppe Reserve passes through the Terasy Natural Monument and runs alongside the retention basin and a group of ponds and pools on the Holomňa stream. If you plan to walk the route, check local conditions before setting out. Several cycling routes intersect in Drslavice; their exact alignments may change. It is therefore advisable to check your chosen route before setting off.

Traditions and events

Local traditions that are still observed include the traditional Hody celebrations and a Fašank carnival procession. There is also a long-standing tradition during Holy Week: from Thursday to Saturday, boys walk through the village with Hrkávky rattles. Drslavice’s winemaking tradition dates back to the 16th century, adding another historical dimension to the village’s story.

Since 2015, the Drslavské léto project has been run in collaboration with local associations. It supports cultural, social, sporting and charitable events. Dates vary; if you are travelling for a particular event, check the programme in advance. Together with other municipalities, Drslavice also organises a traditional New Year’s Eve gathering for the whole family at Pepčín’s former site. If you are planning to attend, it is advisable to check the exact date.

Practical information

The TJ sports area has rest areas and seating, with refreshments available. If you are planning to stop for refreshments, check in advance whether they will be available during your visit. This makes it possible to plan a route, event or rest stop specifically into your day, without all the themes needing to be the focus of the same visit.

Discover more destinations: Bystřice Pod Lopeníkem, Vážany U Uherského Hradiště, Újezdec, Nivnice, Ostrožská Nová Ves, Kunovice, Březolupy, Prakšice.

For the regional travel overview: Uherské Hradiště District.