Luhačovice with Your Dog — Where to Go with Your Four-Legged Friend in Moravia
Luhačovice ranks among the most beautiful spa towns in the Czech Republic. The Art Nouveau architecture of Dušan Jurkovič, healing mineral springs, expansive spa parks and the hilly landscape of the Vizovické vrchy and White Carpathians — all this makes it a place you’ll want to return to. But what if you have a dog at home that you never leave behind? Good news: Luhačovice is surprisingly friendly to four-legged companions. The Šťávnice River valley offers kilometres of walking paths, surrounding forests invite hiking, and many restaurants and accommodation facilities welcome dogs. We’ve prepared a detailed guide for your holiday with your dog in Moravia, specifically in Luhačovice and its surroundings in the Zlín Region.
Walking with Your Dog in Luhačovice
If you’re planning Luhačovice with your dog, the town itself is an excellent starting point for dog owners. Most attractive spots are within walking distance from the centre, and the terrain ranges from flat paths along the stream to forest trails with gentle inclines. Let’s look at the most popular routes.
The Spa Park
The heart of Luhačovice is undoubtedly the spa park. It stretches along the Šťávnice stream from the colonnade towards the reservoir and offers maintained pathways lined with mature trees, flower beds and benches for rest. You can enter with your dog, but you must follow the rules. According to the town bylaws, dogs must be on a lead throughout the town centre and must wear a visible registration tag. This applies to the spa park as well.
Entry with dogs is prohibited on children’s playgrounds, sandpits and landscaped public green areas. Dogs are not allowed inside the colonnade building itself. However, if you stick to the main paths and keep your dog on a lead, walking through the park is perfectly fine. Staff at local stalls and cafés around the colonnade are used to dogs and usually don’t mind when a pup lies under a table on the outdoor terrace.
Tip: An early morning walk through the park, when it’s still quiet with few people about, is the most pleasant experience for both you and your dog. The spa park is beautiful at any time of day, but mornings have a special atmosphere.
Circuit Around Luhačovice Reservoir
If there’s one route in Luhačovice that’s absolutely ideal for dog owners, it’s the circuit around the reservoir. From the spa park, you can reach the reservoir via Jurkovič Avenue — a pleasant paved path along the stream, approximately 3 kilometres long. The circuit around the reservoir itself measures about 4 kilometres and follows flat, mostly paved surfaces.
The entire route is therefore approximately 5 to 7 kilometres long (depending on your starting point), has no significant elevation changes and is suitable even for older or less fit dogs. Along the way you’ll find benches for rest, and on the reservoir shores there are quiet spots where your dog can rest and cool off during warm months. On the less populated shores of the reservoir there’s usually peace and quiet, and your dog can have a comfortable swim.
Jurkovič Avenue is also equipped with rest areas and exercise equipment, so you can combine a pleasant dog walk with light exercise. The path is lined with information boards about the history and nature of the area.
Forest Park and Forest Paths Above the Town
Above Luhačovice stretch vast forests offering kilometres of forest roads and trails. For dogs, it’s paradise — the scent of conifers, forest wildlife and pure nature. From the town centre, you can reach the forest paths within minutes. Simply head uphill from the spa park.
Forest paths are usually well-maintained and marked with hiking signs. The terrain is hilly, but the inclines are gradual and manageable even for less trained dogs. The forest provides pleasant shade even on hot summer days, which dogs with thick coats particularly appreciate. On forest paths above town you’ll encounter significantly fewer people than in the spa park, so if you have a dog that needs more peace, it’s an ideal choice.
Educational Trail “Kingdom of Lookout Towers”
If you’re looking for a shorter, undemanding walk that will please you too, stop by the mini educational trail “Kingdom of Lookout Towers”. This is the shortest educational trail you can imagine — measuring just 109 metres. It’s located right in the centre of Luhačovice, near the church, beside the mini gallery of lookout towers.
At eighteen stops you’ll learn interesting facts about lookout towers from across Czech Republic and Slovakia. Nineteen information panels present lookout towers from individual regions with maps, technical data and stories. You can walk this trail with your dog on a lead without any problems, and it’ll only take a few minutes. It’s a pleasant addition to a walk through the town centre.
Routes to Surrounding Lookout Towers
Luhačovice itself doesn’t have its own lookout tower, but you’ll find several in the surrounding area. Two are particularly interesting for dog owners:
- Doubrava Lookout Tower — stands on the hill of the same name (676 m above sea level) in the Vizovické vrchy. From Luhačovice you can reach it via hiking trails through Komonec. The route measures approximately 13 kilometres and leads through beautiful forest landscape. From the 55-metre-high tower, views open up to the Beskydy Mountains, Hostýn Hills, and in clear weather you can see as far as the Little Fatra. Dogs can only go up the tower in your arms or in a carrier — otherwise wait with them at the bottom, where there’s plenty of shade and space.
- Vartovna Lookout Tower — located in the Vizovické vrchy and measures 37 metres. The viewing platform is reached by 215 steps. The views are magnificent — the Beskydy, Vizovické and Hostýn Hills. Here too it’s better to stay at the base of the tower with your dog.
The hiking routes to the lookout towers themselves are excellent for dogs. They lead mainly through forest, on soft surfaces with plenty of shade. On the route from Luhačovice via Komonec you’ll pass the ruins of Starý Světlov and see the church at Maleniskách — places worth stopping for.
Trips with Your Dog Around Luhačovice
The area around Luhačovice is perfect for dog trips. Two mountain ranges — the White Carpathians and Vizovické vrchy — offer dozens of kilometres of hiking trails suitable for four-legged companions.
White Carpathians — Hiking Trails Suitable for Dogs
The White Carpathians stretch along the Moravian-Slovak border and belong to the Protected Landscape Area, which is a biosphere reserve under UNESCO protection. For dog owners this means one important thing: dogs must always be on a lead, especially during bird nesting season and near pastures with livestock.
A popular route leads from Luhačovice via Komonec (12.2 km), where you climb above Luhačovice and Pozlovice and are rewarded with beautiful views. The route is moderately challenging and your dog should be in good condition. Another option is the educational trail from Bojkovice to the Gothic castle Nový Světlov, which leads through the foothills of the White Carpathians and offers interesting information about local nature.
The White Carpathians are known for their blooming meadows, especially in spring when orchids flower. During this time it’s particularly important to keep your dog on a lead and not stray from marked paths to protect the rare flora.
Vizovické Vrchy
The Vizovické vrchy with the highest peak Klášťov (753 m) are beautifully undulating mountains that extend north of Luhačovice. For dog owners they offer excellent conditions — wide forest roads, soft surfaces and plenty of natural shade. Routes are usually moderately challenging with gradual ascents.
We particularly recommend the hike to Vartovna with its lookout tower and magnificent views, or the longer traverse from Vizovice to Luhačovice (28 km), which passes the Doubrava lookout tower, Sehrad castle, Starý Světlov castle and Luhačovice reservoir. On this route your dog will enjoy diverse landscape from deep forests to open meadows with views.
Along the way from the railway station in Vizovice runs a green-marked trail, where after 4.5 km you’ll come across the Tourist Spring — a place where both you and your dog can replenish water supplies.
Luhačovice Reservoir — Dog Swimming
Luhačovice reservoir is a valley dam on the Šťávnice River, whose construction began in 1913 and was first filled in 1930. Today it serves as an important water structure and popular recreation spot. For dogs, the reservoir is interesting primarily for swimming opportunities.
At the main beach by the dam, where people swim, it’s not suitable to let your dog into the water. Much better is to head to the less frequented shores of the reservoir, especially on the northern and eastern sides. There you’ll find quiet spots with gentle water entry where your dog can safely swim without disturbing other visitors.
The water in the reservoir is pleasantly warm in summer months. Water quality is regularly monitored by the hygiene station. After swimming it’s good to dry your dog and check for ticks in the fur — the reservoir surroundings are wooded and ticks are common in this area.
Pivečka Forest Park in Slavičín
About 10 kilometres south of Luhačovice lies the town of Slavičín, where you’ll find the beautiful Pivečka Forest Park. This park was created in 1940 and is now a popular place for walks and relaxation. For dog owners it’s interesting because it offers a quiet forest environment with maintained paths, benches and interesting wooden sculptures — a pack of oak wolves, a giant snail, a newt, a water sprite and a frog.
The terrain in the forest park is undemanding and manageable even with an older dog. Slavičín is also the starting point for several marked hiking trails into the White Carpathians, so you can combine a visit to the forest park with a longer trip into the surrounding nature.
Practical Information for Dog Owners
Before you set off on holiday with your dog to Moravia and specifically to Luhačovice, it’s good to know the local rules and know where to find everything you need. Here’s the most important practical information.
Where Dogs Can and Cannot Go
- Spa Park — entry with dogs permitted, dog must be on a lead with visible registration tag.
- Colonnade — dogs are not allowed inside the colonnade building. Around the colonnade on outdoor areas you can walk with your dog on a lead, but be considerate of spa guests.
- Restaurants — most restaurants in Luhačovice tolerate dogs on outdoor terraces. Staff are used to dogs and often have a water bowl ready. Dogs are usually not allowed inside restaurants.
- Children’s playgrounds and sandpits — entry with dogs is prohibited.
- Cemetery — entry with dogs prohibited.
- Landscaped greenery — entry with dogs prohibited. Stick to pathways and roads.
- Off-lead area — for free movement of dogs, part of the public space behind the Mat pub, between the petrol station and railway tracks, is designated in Luhačovice.
Veterinarian in Luhačovice
In Luhačovice you’ll find a veterinary surgery that can help you if needed:
ALIAVET — Veterinary Surgery MVDr. Petr Mlček
Address: Masarykova 336, 763 26 Luhačovice
Phone: 731 570 167
E-mail: mlcekp@centrum.cz
Website: aliavet.cz
Surgery hours in Luhačovice: Monday 9:00–11:00 and 14:00–18:00
The surgery offers full care for dogs, cats and small animals, including blood tests, digital X-ray and ultrasound. We recommend saving the number in your phone for unexpected situations.
Dog Bags and Waste Bins
Luhačovice is a spa town and cleanliness of public areas is a priority here. Throughout the town you’ll find dispensers with dog bags and waste bins for dog excrement. Nevertheless, we recommend always having your own supply of bags — especially if you’re planning longer trips to the surroundings where dispensers aren’t available.
Cleaning up after your dog in Luhačovice is not only a matter of courtesy but also an obligation. Municipal police can issue fines for not cleaning up. In a spa town where people come for health and relaxation, consideration for others is particularly important.
Pet Food Shop
In Luhačovice and the immediate vicinity you’ll find several shops where you can get dog food and supplies. Local supermarkets also offer basic dog food ranges. If you need special food or supplements, we recommend stocking up before departure, or using larger shops in Zlín, which is approximately 25 kilometres away.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Cafés
One of the pleasant aspects of Luhačovice is the friendliness of local gastronomy establishments to dog owners. The spa town comes alive mainly in summer months when most restaurants and cafés open outdoor terraces, and these are ideal for visits with dogs.
Generally, dogs are welcome on outdoor terraces in Luhačovice. Staff at most establishments have no problem with dogs under the table and often offer a water bowl themselves. When choosing a restaurant, focus on establishments with spacious terraces where your dog has plenty of room and doesn’t have to be close to other tables.
Popular places include Kavárna v Myslivně, where they’re used to dogs and happily welcome them. Lázeňská káva by the mini gallery of lookout towers offers excellent coffee and a quiet terrace. Other restaurants along the colonnade have terraces where you can sit peacefully with your dog.
Tip: If you’re going to Luhačovice outside the main season (spring, autumn), some terraces may be closed. In such cases, don’t hesitate to ask staff if you can bring a calm dog inside — many establishments will accommodate you, especially if it’s not busy.
Swimming with Your Dog — Where Around Luhačovice
Summer in Luhačovice can be hot and your dog will surely enjoy a swim. Where can you let them into the water?
Luhačovice Reservoir — Less Populated Shores
As we’ve already mentioned, the main beach by the reservoir isn’t suitable for dogs. Head to the northern or eastern shore of the reservoir, where you’ll find quiet spots with gentle water entry. The surroundings are wooded and shady, so your dog can first cool down in the shade and then have a swim. The water is clean and regularly monitored.
Šťávnice Stream
The Šťávnice River (also called Luhačovice stream) flows through the entire town and offers several places where your dog can wet their paws or have a complete refreshing dip. Šťávnice springs near the village of Loučka at an altitude of 485 metres and its flow measures 24 kilometres. Around Luhačovice you’ll find shallow spots on the stream with rocky bottoms where swimming is safe even for smaller dogs.
Especially in the section between town and reservoir there are pleasant places where the stream widens and creates shallows suitable for dog swimming. The water in the stream is cooler than in the reservoir, which dogs appreciate on hot days.
General Rules
When swimming your dog in nature, ensure they don’t disturb wild waterfowl and other animals. After swimming, dry your dog and check their coat — ticks are present around water areas. Have a towel and tick removal tool handy.
Accommodation with Dogs in Luhačovice
In Luhačovice you’ll find many accommodation facilities that accept dogs. Some charge an additional fee, others accommodate dogs free of charge. Conditions vary, so we recommend always checking current rules before booking.
Hotel Vincent
If you’re looking for pleasant accommodation with your dog in Luhačovice, Hotel Vincent is an excellent choice. This hotel offers accommodation in the heart of the spa town with access to a garden and terrace. Dogs are welcome here for a fee of 250 CZK per night. Important rule: dogs must not be left alone in rooms without supervision.
Hotel Vincent has a garden where your dog can rest, and its location allows easy access to walks in the spa park and trips to the surroundings. Bikes are also available free of charge, so if you have a dog that can run alongside a bike, you can explore the area together.
Hotel Vincent Contact:
E-mail: ahoj@vincentluhacovice.cz
Phone: +420 720 072 780
Booking: vincentluhacovice.cz/rezervace-ubytovani/
What to Bring for Your Dog
Wherever you stay, don’t forget:
- Bed or blanket — your dog will have their familiar corner in a strange environment where they feel safe.
- Travel bowls for water and food — collapsible silicone bowls are light and practical.
- Favourite toy — helps your dog overcome potential stress from a new environment.
- Lead and harness — leads are mandatory in the spa town. Better to have a spare too.
- Dog bags — have sufficient supply, especially for trips outside town.
- Vaccination record — in case of vet visit or inspection.
- Tick prevention — in the hilly, forested landscape around Luhačovice, ticks are common.
- Towel — for drying your dog after swimming or rain.
- Sufficient food — special food may not be easily available in Luhačovice.
Seasons with Your Dog in Luhačovice
Luhačovice is beautiful year-round and each season has its advantages and pitfalls for dog owners.
Spring
Spring in Luhačovice is magical. The spa park is shrouded in blossoms, temperatures are mild and pleasant for long walks. Surrounding meadows in the White Carpathians bloom with orchids and other rare flowers. For dogs, spring temperatures are ideal — neither hot nor cold. But watch out for ticks, which awaken with the arrival of warmth. Spring months are also less touristy than summer, so you’ll meet fewer people on the trails.
Summer
Summer brings hot days that can be challenging for dogs. Plan walks for morning or late afternoon hours when temperatures are bearable. During midday heat, seek shade in forests above town or by water. Luhačovice reservoir and Šťávnice stream offer cooling opportunities. Don’t forget plenty of drinking water for your dog — always have a full bottle and travel bowl. Hot asphalt can burn dog paws, so prefer forest and grass paths.
Autumn
Autumn is perhaps the best time for a dog trip to Luhačovice. Temperatures are pleasant, nature displays its colours and there are significantly fewer tourists. The Vizovické vrchy and White Carpathians are shrouded in golden and red tones that create a beautiful backdrop for walks. Autumn mists in the Šťávnice valley give the town a mysterious atmosphere. Your dog will enjoy long walks without risk of overheating and you’ll have the trails almost to yourselves.
Winter
Winter Luhačovice has its charm. The snow-covered spa park looks like a fairy tale and walks in snow are a joy for most dogs. However, routes must be adapted to conditions — it can be slippery in the hills and some forest paths may not be maintained. Stick to main paths and shorten walks if it’s really freezing. Don’t forget protection for dog paws — snow and road salt can irritate pads. After walks, wash paws with lukewarm water.
Dog Etiquette in a Spa Town
Luhačovice is a spa town where people come for health, peace and relaxation. Many spa guests may be elderly, have health limitations or be afraid of dogs. Therefore, consideration for others is particularly important in Luhačovice.
Basic Rules for Considerate Dog Owners
- Dog on lead — in the town centre and spa park it’s mandatory. On hiking trails in the surroundings it’s recommended, in the White Carpathians Protected Landscape Area it’s mandatory.
- Clean up after your dog — always and everywhere. No exceptions. Always have bags handy.
- Quiet — excessive barking disturbs spa guests. If your dog barks a lot, consider whether a spa town is the right place for them.
- Respect others’ space — don’t let your dog jump on strangers, sniff at others’ food on terraces or enter areas where they’re not welcome.
- Water and rest — a tired and thirsty dog is a nervous dog. Ensure they have plenty of water and rest.
- Dog identification — dogs must have visible registration tags. We also recommend microchipping and an address tag on the collar.
Remember that your behaviour represents all dog owners. The more considerate you are, the more welcoming local residents and businesses will be to future visitors with dogs.
Weekend Itinerary with Your Dog in Luhačovice
Planning Luhačovice with your dog for a weekend and don’t know how to organise your time? We’ve prepared an indicative two-day plan that you can adapt to your dog’s fitness and your preferences.
Friday — Arrival and First Walk
- Afternoon: Arrival in Luhačovice and check-in. Let your dog explore the room and hotel surroundings.
- Evening: Short walk through the spa park. Stroll along the colonnade, drink some mineral water and let your dog get used to the new environment. Dog on lead, calm pace.
- Night: Dinner on an outdoor terrace of one of the restaurants in the centre. Let your dog lie at your feet and offer them a water bowl.
Saturday — Main Excursion Day
- Morning (8:00–9:00): Morning walk through the spa park while it’s quiet. View Jurkovič’s architecture and mineral springs.
- Mid-morning (9:00–12:00): Hike to Komonec or circuit around the reservoir. If you’re fitter, choose the Komonec route (12.2 km) with views over Luhačovice and surrounding hills. For a calmer option, go along Jurkovič Avenue to the reservoir and walk around it (about 7 km total).
- Midday (12:00–13:30): Lunch at a restaurant with terrace. Dog rests in shade under the table.
- Afternoon (14:00–16:00): If it’s hot, head to quieter reservoir shores where your dog can swim. Or explore forest paths above town.
- Evening (17:00–18:30): Walk through centre, visit the “Kingdom of Lookout Towers” educational trail, coffee at a café with terrace.
- Night: Dinner and rest. Your dog will be content and tired after an active day.
Sunday — Calmer Programme and Departure
- Morning (8:00–9:30): Morning walk and breakfast.
- Mid-morning (10:00–12:00): Trip to Pivečka Forest Park in Slavičín (10 km from Luhačovice). Undemanding forest walk with wooden sculptures — your dog will enjoy new scents and you’ll enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Midday: Lunch and packing.
- Afternoon: Departure home with a satisfied and pleasantly tired dog in the back seat.
In Conclusion — Luhačovice is an Excellent Choice for Dog Owners
A holiday with your dog in Moravia doesn’t have to be complicated. Luhačovice offers the best of both worlds — spa elegance and culture for you, and kilometres of walking trails in beautiful nature for your four-legged friend. Whether you’re planning an active trip with your dog in the Zlín Region, or just a peaceful weekend with walks in the spa park, Luhačovice won’t disappoint.
The key to a successful holiday with your dog is good preparation, consideration for others and the ability to adapt the programme to your dog’s needs. With this guide you have everything you need to fully enjoy Luhačovice with your dog.
Interested in accommodation with your dog in Luhačovice? Contact Hotel Vincent and arrange a tailor-made stay:
- E-mail: ahoj@vincentluhacovice.cz
- Phone: +420 720 072 780
- Online booking: vincentluhacovice.cz/rezervace-ubytovani/
We look forward to welcoming you and your pooch!