Macocha Abyss
Jihomoravský kraj
The Macocha Abyss, also known as the Macocha Gorge, is a magnificent sinkhole situated in the Moravian Karst cave system of the Czech Republic. Located in the Vilémovice municipality just north of Brno, it stands as a prominent natural wonder. The gorge is incredibly vast, measuring 174 metres in length and 76 metres in width. Plunging to a depth of 138.5 metres to the surface of Dolní Lake, it holds the title of the deepest "light hole" abyss in Central Europe, meaning daylight reaches its very bottom. The subterranean Punkva River flows directly through the base of the abyss, connecting it to the renowned Punkva Caves. Below the surface of the lake, advanced technical divers have explored further underground spaces reaching a total depth of 187.5 metres. The surrounding karst landscape was carved by the waters of the Sloupský Brook, creating an extensive network of passages and domes. Today, it serves as a highly popular destination for casual tourists, passionate cavers, and divers alike.
Plan your trip to Czechia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Because the Macocha Abyss is directly connected to the highly popular Punkva Caves, it is strongly recommended to book your underground tour tickets well in advance, especially during the busy summer months. The upper viewing platforms overlooking the abyss can be visited year-round without a reservation. Remember to bring warm clothing if you plan to explore the connected subterranean cave systems, as temperatures remain cool and damp throughout the year.
Interesting facts
- •It is the deepest 'light hole' type sinkhole in Central Europe, meaning natural daylight reaches all the way to the bottom.
- •The visible abyss is 138.5 metres deep to the surface of Dolní Lake, but underwater explorations have reached a total depth of 187.5 metres.
- •The subterranean Punkva River flows directly through the bottom of the gorge.
- •The nearby Sloup-Šošůvka Caves feature a 3,000-metre viewing circuit, making it the longest underground trail open to the public in the Czech Republic.
History
The Macocha Abyss was formed over millennia by the relentless geological activity of the subterranean Punkva River and its tributaries, such as the Sloupský Brook.
These water sources gradually carved out an extensive system of underground passages, domes, and abysses in the limestone of the Moravian Karst.
The abyss itself was created when the ceiling of a massive underground cavern eventually collapsed, exposing the deep gorge to daylight.
Over the years, the site has transitioned from a mysterious local landmark to a major hub for speleological exploration.
Modern technical divers have continued to push the boundaries of its known history, exploring the submerged spaces beneath Dolní Lake to a record depth of 187.5 metres.
Place Guide
Dolní Lake (Lower Lake)
A subterranean lake located at the very bottom of the Macocha Abyss. Its surface marks the 138.5-metre depth of the visible sinkhole, while its underwater depths conceal further unexplored cave systems.
Sloup-Šošůvka Caves
An extensive system of underground passages, domes, and abysses formed by the waters of the Sloupský Brook, located near the abyss.
