Ever since a character in the popular Czech TV series Comeback started hysterically screaming “Nobody goes to Bruntál!” while fearfully reading from a brochure titled “Bruntál: More Than Mud,” this Silesian town has had a reputation as a place you simply drive through.
Fans of the show will also remember other “gems” about hunting riverside deer and the Silage Bullet race. Thanks to this unintentional “publicity,” however, you have a unique opportunity to discover the charm of Bruntál Czechia without the crowds of tourists that flood other destinations in the Jeseníky Mountains. And while you really can buy a plush toothy frog as a souvenir here, Bruntál has so much more to offer.
TL;DR
- Bruntál is the oldest Czech town with brewing rights and boasts a stunning Renaissance château with an arcaded courtyard
- Nearby you’ll find several extinct volcanoes, including Uhlířský vrch with its pilgrimage church and unique linden avenue
- The town has a Wellness Centre with a 100-metre water slide
- Bruntál is an ideal base for trips to the Slezská Harta reservoir and other parts of the Jeseníky Mountains
- For Comeback fans: Visit the unique Mud Museum, which tongue-in-cheek celebrates the town’s “famous mining past”
- Where to stay: Hotel Slezan or ApartmanyVrbno
History of Bruntál – the Oldest Town with City Rights
You might be surprised to learn that Bruntál holds one of the oldest founding charters in the Czech lands. The town was granted city rights as early as 1213, making it the oldest town in the entire Czech Republic founded under Magdeburg law. When the town of Uničov was founded in 1233, it was specifically noted that Uničov would be granted the same rights already held by the citizens of Bruntál.
The town was founded “on green turf” at the crossroads of important trade routes, and its prosperity was linked to precious metal mining from the very beginning. Its greatest period of flourishing came in the 16th century under the Lords of Vrbno, when precious metals and iron ore were mined on a grand scale. Forges, mills and smelters became the dominant feature of the entire estate.
After the Battle of the White Mountain, the estate was confiscated and came into the possession of the Teutonic Order, who remained here until the end of World War II. In the 19th century, textile production began to thrive in Bruntál, becoming the town’s new economic engine. Bruntál also became known as a centre for distilling and liqueur-making – the famous herbal liqueur Praděd was created in nearby Světlá Hora and remains popular to this day.
When to Visit Bruntál
Bruntál is lovely from spring through autumn. As the gateway to the Jeseníky Mountains, it doesn’t get as hot here in summer as in other parts of the Czech Republic. Plus, you can always escape into the mountains whenever you fancy a cool-down.
Where to Stay
Bruntál isn’t a hugely touristy town, so there are only a handful of hotels. The most popular is Hotel Slezan, which is affordable but don’t expect anything fancy. We recommend staying about 15 km from Bruntál at ApartmanyVrbno.
18 Things to See and Do in Bruntál and Surroundings
You certainly won’t be bored in Bruntál, even if the experience will be a bit different from what you’re used to. Let’s take a look at the places you absolutely shouldn’t miss during your visit.
Bruntál Château
The Renaissance château is one of the most beautiful in northern Moravia. Originally a Gothic castle from the 14th century, it was rebuilt into an opulent Renaissance residence by the Lords of Vrbno in the 16th century. The château is surrounded by an extensive park, and inside you’ll find richly decorated halls with period furniture and artworks. It also houses a museum documenting the region’s history and traditional crafts.
The château boasts a unique arcaded courtyard that creates an unforgettable atmosphere. During the summer months, open-air concerts and theatre performances are held here. Don’t forget to visit the château’s chocolate shop, where you can buy handmade pralines and other chocolate treats.
An interesting fact: the château was once visited by Emperor Franz Joseph I and his wife Sissi – their portraits still adorn the interiors, commemorating this notable visit. Make sure to visit the Château Chocolate Shop, located right by the castle.
Uhlířský Vrch (Extinct Volcano)
Just a few kilometres from the town centre rises the extinct volcano Uhlířský vrch, one of the youngest volcanoes in the Czech Republic. At the summit stands a Baroque pilgrimage church dedicated to Our Lady of Succour, approached via a unique four-row linden avenue. The avenue was planted in 1766 and comprises over 250 mature linden trees.
A Stations of the Cross trail with wooden carvings by local woodcarver F. Nedomlel also leads to the top. From Uhlířský vrch, you’ll enjoy wonderful views of Bruntál and the surrounding countryside. The walk from town to the summit takes about 45 minutes and follows the green hiking trail.
Wellness Centre Bruntál
Not sure what to do in Bruntál when it rains? Head to the local Wellness Centre. You’ll find a 25-metre swimming pool, a pool with water attractions, a wild river ride, a 100-metre water slide and a steam sauna.
Kobylí Pond
In the middle of a residential area, you’ll discover Kobylí Pond, which serves as a natural swimming spot. The pond is surrounded by greenery, and in summer you can swim here or feed the ducks. In winter, when it freezes over, it transforms into a natural ice-skating rink.
An easy walking trail circles the pond, suitable for families with children or older visitors. On one of the small islands, weeping willows create a romantic atmosphere. The pond is also home to many species of waterfowl, so birdwatchers will find plenty to enjoy as well.
Náměstí Míru (Peace Square) with Historic Houses
The historic town centre revolves around Náměstí Míru (Peace Square), surrounded by Renaissance and Baroque houses. The square’s focal points are a Baroque Marian column and a fountain.
Gabriel House
On the south-western corner of the square, you’ll find Gabriel House. This corner, single-storey building with a gable typical of Silesian architecture from the mid-16th century remains a testament to the town’s Renaissance-era development, despite extensive modifications in the late 19th and 20th centuries. It features rooms with beam ceilings and flat ceilings, plus windows with original grilles. The house was donated to the town by Grand Master of the Teutonic Order, E. Habsburg, and served as the town museum until 1958.
Town House No. 60
On the square you’ll also spot an imposing three-storey terraced burgher house on a medieval plot, complete with preserved cellars, a lean-to roof, a richly decorated façade, a marble interior staircase and an almost perfectly intact interior. After a fire in 1764, it was rebuilt in the Empire style and completely renovated in 1895. The exceptionally attractive interiors, including a staircase with a glass-block floor, are remarkably well preserved.
Mud Museum
Bruntál’s Mud Museum is a unique place that, with a generous dose of irony and humour, celebrates the town’s “famous mud-mining past.” The museum was created in response to the Czech TV series Comeback and its jokes about Bruntál being a town where mud is mined.
Inside, you’ll find “historical” photographs of mud mining, including “documentation” of Bruntál mud being shipped to all corners of Europe. Among the most entertaining exhibits is a “record” of a mud delivery to Napoleon Bonaparte before the Battle of Austerlitz, and photographic documentation of a 1927 demonstration demanding higher mud rations for workers. There are also “authentic” photos of miners Ingo, Wolfy, Guty and Viktor after finishing their shift in 1975.
The Mud Museum perfectly illustrates how the people of Bruntál managed to laugh at themselves and turn unflattering media attention into a tourist attraction. A visit to the museum is an entertaining highlight, especially appreciated by fans of the Comeback series and lovers of quirky Czech humour.
Stone Bastion on Partyzánská Street
This is a remnant of the medieval fortifications that once surrounded the historic town. Of the original city walls that encircled the centre, only a few sections with this bastion remain today. This architectural feature is a reminder of the town’s rich history and strategic importance in centuries past.
The Stone Bastion is notable for its circular construction and massive walls. It’s currently open to the public, and you can view its interior. Located near the château, you can easily include it in a stroll through the town centre.
Workers’ Club House (now Community House)
On Ruská Street, you’ll find the imposing Community House building. This free-standing Neo-Renaissance two-storey structure was originally built as an extension to the Golden Stag inn, known as the Deer Hall, designed by Franz Meissner in 1884–1885. In 1907 it was sold to the workers’ association of Bruntál.
The building features richly decorated stucco polychrome ornamentation in the main hall, which contrasts with later additions from 1972 designed by Karel Typovský’s studio. Today the building houses a restaurant, bar, bowling alley and a multi-purpose hall used for various cultural and social events.
Slezská Harta Reservoir
Although the reservoir is about 15 kilometres from Bruntál, it’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Slezská Harta is the youngest dam in the Czech Republic and offers plenty of options for water sports and recreation.
You can hire pedal boats, kayaks or paddleboards, or take a scenic boat trip. A cycle path runs around the reservoir, also suitable for inline skating. In summer, you can swim at several well-maintained beaches.
Toothy Frog Souvenir
If you want to take home a truly original souvenir from Bruntál, don’t miss the chance to get your very own toothy frog. This unusual souvenir was created in response to a joke from the popular Czech TV series Comeback, where Bruntál is described as a town of toothy frogs and mud mining.
The locals decided to embrace the joke and turned it into a tourist attraction. At BruntálSHOP and the Mud Museum, you can purchase a plush toothy frog that has become the town’s unofficial mascot.
Mildner Villa with Enclosure
A rare example of urban architecture with a half-timbered attic and preserved interior layout, built to the personal design of architect Robert Mildner in the early 20th century. It served as his family villa with a ground-floor studio and accommodation for unmarried employees. The striking stucco decoration of both the interior and façade will delight any architecture enthusiast.
Gardenpolis
Not sure what to do with small children in Bruntál? Head to Gardenpolis – technically a garden centre, but it features a wonderful play area with a sandpit and a great café.
Traditional Bakery Agro (Jantar)
On Náměstí Míru you’ll find the traditional Agro bakery (formerly known as Jantar, and everyone still calls it that). The bakery offers a wide range of baked goods, including speciality breads like their “Grandma’s” or “Party” bread. The aroma of fresh baking fills the air around the shop all day long.
After a recent renovation, you can find information about the building’s history inside, including the fun fact that Emperor Franz Joseph I once visited the bakery. If you have children, definitely bring them along – according to locals, they’ll remember the experience for life and grow up as loyal hometown patriots.
Where to Eat and Drink Coffee in Bruntál
We have family living near Bruntál, so we visit quite often and can say the town has really transformed in recent years. While just a few years ago you couldn’t find a decent coffee and good food was equally scarce, things have improved considerably.
Among the better restaurants are Affinity Restaurant & Bar and Nix Bistro and Bar, where the food is good – though the service could use some improvement. We waited about 40 minutes for our food, which with a small child is really not ideal (they forgot about us). For coffee, head to the Château Chocolate Shop, Kafe Bybodlo or Boho Coffee.
Day Trip Ideas from Bruntál
Bruntál is the gateway to the Jeseníky Mountains, so anyone who loves hiking will fall in love with this area. Since summers here aren’t scorching, it’s also an ideal spot for cycling.
Jeseníky Mountains and Mount Praděd
The highest peak of Moravia – Praděd (1,491 m / 4,892 ft) – is only about 30 kilometres from Bruntál. You can hike to the summit or take a bus. From the top, you’ll enjoy views across the entire Jeseníky range and into Poland. At the summit stands a TV transmission tower with an observation deck that is open to the public.
Karlova Studánka Spa
This picturesque spa town is only about 20 kilometres from Bruntál. You probably won’t spend an entire day here, but it’s definitely worth a visit. Take a stroll along the spa colonnade or book yourself a wellness treatment.
In Karlova Studánka you’ll also find a Spa Museum documenting the history of the baths and healing methods. Nearby are the White Opava waterfalls, accessible via a scenic hiking trail.
Cycling Around Bruntál
The area around Bruntál is crisscrossed with a network of cycle paths. You can choose routes of varying difficulty – from easy rides along the Slezská Harta reservoir to more challenging climbs into the Jeseníky hills.
A popular route is the cycle path around the Slezská Harta reservoir, which takes you around the entire body of water and offers lovely views of the surrounding landscape. The route is about 35 kilometres long and is suitable for families with children or less experienced cyclists.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is it from Bruntál to Mount Praděd?
From Bruntál, it’s approximately 30 kilometres to Praděd, the highest mountain in Moravia. By car, you can get there in just under an hour. You can also use regular bus services that run from the Bruntál bus station.
Does the Silage Bullet race mentioned in the Comeback series really exist?
Yes, the Silage Bullet race really does exist. It’s a running race in which competitors sprint up a silage tower. The race takes place once a year and is quite demanding, so if you want to participate, you should be in good physical shape.
Can you buy a toothy frog souvenir in Bruntál?
Yes, you can buy most souvenirs at the Wellness Centre in Bruntál or directly at BruntálSHOP and the Mud Museum.
Does the Mud Museum really exist?
Yes, it really does. You’ll find it at the same address as BruntálSHOP.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
