Synalov combines distinctive gneiss formations with a village centre whose layout is known as an Okrouhlice. Travellers choosing a destination based on specific landscape and cultural themes will find both protected natural areas and a distinctive settlement pattern here. Rocky ridges, aquatic habitats and traditional architecture offer different ways to explore the area.

Gneiss formations and protected nature

Synalovské kopaniny encompasses the upper slopes stretching southwards from Sýkoř towards Synalov. The area lies at an altitude of 554 to 672 m. Exposed gneiss boulders form one of the longest block streams in the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands. The landscape here is defined by both its rock formations and its elevation.

Horní Židovka is a protected natural monument in the cadastral area of Synalov. A rocky gneiss ridge there features frost cliffs up to 10 m high. Klášterce also includes a rocky ridge stretching from Synalov towards Lomnice. Míchovec is another protected natural monument, extending across the cadastral areas of Běleč and Synalov. Its geological formations include frost cliffs, boulder fields created by rockfalls, nivation hollows and fissure caves.

Pod Sýkořskou myslivnou is a 25 ha nature reserve in the cadastral area of Synalov. Pilský rybníček, by contrast, is a protected system of a pond and millrace in the Besének valley between Synalov and Strhaře. It provides a habitat for rare aquatic plants and is an exceptional spawning site for amphibians. The natural features therefore differ considerably: rocky ridges, boulder fields and fissure caves contrast with aquatic plants and amphibians in the pond system.

Village centre, architecture and Osiky Castle

In the centre of Synalov, the village forms an Okrouhlice: seven large farmsteads are arranged in a circle around the central village square. The term succinctly describes this unusual settlement pattern; the square forms the centre of the ring of farmsteads. Synalov also preserves houses built in the traditional folk architecture of the Podhorácko region. The village layout and the design of individual houses thus represent distinct aspects of local architecture.

The Chapel of the Guardian Angels was built in 1883. The ruins of Osiky Castle lie mostly within the cadastral area of Synalov and are protected as a cultural monument. A newer footpath provides access to the castle ruins. Together with the chapel, the castle adds two distinct historical landmarks to the character of the area.

Educational trail and recurring events

The Járy Cimrman educational trail follows a yellow hiking trail marker from Lomnice u Tišnova to the hut below Sýkoř. At the Pod Synalovem signpost, one stop is devoted to Cimrman's Plostika. Both the route between its start and destination and the subject of this stop are worth noting when considering the trail.

The pilgrimage in honour of the Guardian Angels takes place in Synalov every year on the first Sunday in September. The “O Synalovský pohár” pétanque tournament is also held annually. If you would like to plan your trip around one of these events, check the exact dates in advance. This will help you choose between a stay focused on the landscape and architecture and a visit timed to coincide with one of the recurring events.

Discover more destinations: Brezina, Boudy, Jiříkovice, Borač, Strhaře, Ořechov, Bratčice, Ivančice

For the overview of the wider area: Brno-Countryside District.