The reservoir covers approximately 780 hectares and is the largest water body in the region.
The church of St. Linhart is the only surviving building from the original village of Mušov, which was submerged during the dam's construction.
The site is a major nesting ground for the white-tailed eagle and other protected waterfowl species.
The reservoir's water level is managed to maintain specific conditions for the nature reserve on the surrounding islands.
Archaeological excavations prior to the flooding revealed significant settlements dating back to the Roman period, including a Roman military station.
Věstonická nádrž is the central reservoir of the Nové Mlýny dam system in Southern Moravia. The area is most distinctive for the flooded church of St. Linhart, which stands on a small, protected island within the reservoir. This reservoir serves as an important site for migratory birds and is part of the Pálava Protected Landscape Area. The water is used for irrigation, flood protection, and recreational water sports. Visitors can access the shoreline for camping and cycling along the Pálava trails. The surrounding landscape is characterized by the limestone Pálava Hills and extensive vineyards. The reservoir was created in the 1980s by flooding the village of Mušov, leaving only the church standing on the resulting island.
The shoreline near the village of Pavlov offers a clear view of the church rising from the water.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the island is a restricted nature reserve that cannot be entered.
Wear insect repellent, as the marshy environment around the reservoir is active during summer evenings.
Cycle the perimeter path to access multiple vantage points of the flooded church.
Attempting to access the restricted islands, which are strictly protected nature reserves, not public parks.
Maintain silence near the nature reserve zones and do not attempt to reach the protected island by boat or swimming.
