The Bečva Cycle Path (Cyklostezka Bečva) is one of the best-engineered cycling routes in the Czech Republic. Unlike many marked routes that share space with car traffic or use rough forest tracks, this is a purpose-built cycle path running alongside the Bečva river for most of its length. The surface is consistently good, the gradient is minimal, and the scenery – while not dramatic – is pleasant throughout.
Route Overview
The path follows the Bečva river from Valašské Meziříčí in the east to Tovačov in the west, covering approximately 80 kilometres. The Bečva is formed by the confluence of the Rožnovská Bečva and Vsetínská Bečva rivers near Valašské Meziříčí, and the cycle path begins close to this point.
The route passes through or near several towns: Valašské Meziříčí, Hranice na Moravě, Lipník nad Bečvou, Přerov and Tovačov. Each of these has good facilities for cyclists, including accommodation, cafés and basic bike repair services.
The path is designated as cycling route 50 in the KČT system. Signs are consistent throughout, making navigation straightforward. The path is also marked on the Mapy.cz cycling layer, which shows the surface type and elevation profile.
The Valašské Meziříčí Section
The eastern section around Valašské Meziříčí is where the path begins, and it is one of the more scenic stretches. The river here is still relatively narrow and fast-moving, with the Beskydy foothills visible to the south and east.
The path runs close to the water for much of this section, with occasional diversions through riverside meadows. The surface is asphalt throughout. In spring, the meadows alongside the path are worth stopping to look at – the Bečva valley has some of the best wildflower meadows in Moravia.
Valašské Meziříčí itself is a pleasant town with a well-preserved historic centre. The castle (zámek) is open to visitors and worth an hour if you have time. There are several good cafés near the main square.
The Central Section: Hranice to Přerov
Between Hranice na Moravě and Přerov, the river valley widens and the landscape becomes more agricultural. This section is less visually interesting than the eastern part but the riding is easy and the path is in excellent condition.
Hranice has a notable limestone gorge (Hranická propast) nearby, which is the deepest known underwater cave in the world. It is not directly on the cycling route but is worth a short detour if you have time. The gorge itself is not accessible to the public, but the surrounding nature reserve has walking trails.
Přerov is the largest town along the route and has the best facilities. There are multiple hotels, a good selection of restaurants, and a bike shop that can handle most repairs. The town's historic centre is compact and worth exploring on foot.
The Western Section: Přerov to Tovačov
The final section from Přerov to Tovačov passes through flat agricultural land as the Bečva approaches its confluence with the Morava river. The path here is less enclosed than the eastern sections – you can see for considerable distances across the plain.
Tovačov has a castle and a series of gravel lakes (štěrkovny) that are popular for swimming in summer. The lakes have been developed as a recreation area and there is a café near the largest lake. This makes a good endpoint for a day ride from Přerov.
Practical Notes
The Bečva Cycle Path is suitable for road bikes throughout – the surface is consistently paved. It is one of the few Czech cycling routes where you can confidently ride a road bike without worrying about surface changes.
The path is usable year-round in good weather. Winter riding is possible when there is no ice, and the path is not usually closed in winter. However, the section near Hranice can be muddy after heavy rain due to flooding from the river.
Public transport connections are good along the route. Trains stop at Valašské Meziříčí, Hranice, Lipník nad Bečvou and Přerov, making it easy to do one-way rides and return by train. Czech Railways (ČD) allows bicycles on most regional trains for a small additional fee. Check the ČD website for current bicycle transport rules.