Martin Novotný
Senior Outdoor Dining Specialist
Basveno s.r.o.
Outdoor Dining Through a Local’s Eyes
I’ve spent the last 14 years exploring every corner of Czech Republic’s countryside, and honestly, it never gets old. From the terraced vineyards of South Moravia to hidden meadows along the Berounka River, I’ve documented over 200 picnic locations that most travelers never find. What started as a passion project during my hotel management studies at Czech University of Life Sciences became my life’s work — helping people discover authentic outdoor dining experiences that respect both the land and local traditions.
At Basveno s.r.o., I translate years of fieldwork into practical guides and educational content. I’m not just pointing you to a nice spot — I’m sharing the story behind it. Why this meadow works for spring foraging. How vineyard terraces change throughout the seasons. Which riverside setups offer the best light for an evening meal. That’s the real work.
14 Years Building Expertise
University Foundation
Completed degree in Hotel Management at Czech University of Life Sciences with focus on regional gastronomy and sustainable tourism. That’s where my fascination with the connection between landscape, food, and hospitality really started to take shape.
Regional Tourism Development
Three years working across Bohemia and Moravia with regional tourism boards. I developed deep understanding of seasonal traditions, local food culture, and how different landscapes shape outdoor dining opportunities. This is where I learned that every region has its own rhythm.
Fieldwork & Documentation
Spent the last decade documenting picnic locations with the eye of both hospitality professional and outdoor enthusiast. Created detailed guides capturing unique characteristics of each region — from Moravian vineyards to riverside clearings. Over 200 locations documented and verified.
Educational Content Leadership
Currently synthesizing all fieldwork expertise into comprehensive educational resources at Basveno s.r.o. This isn’t just about recommending spots — it’s about empowering readers to plan meaningful outdoor dining experiences while respecting natural and culinary heritage.
Where I Focus My Work
Scenic Meadows & Clearings
I’ve mapped meadow locations across Czech regions — each with distinct characteristics. Spring meadows for foraging. Summer clearings with natural shade. Autumn spots where you can watch the landscape transform. Every season has its perfect meadow, and I know where they are.
Vineyard Terraces
The vineyard regions of South Moravia offer some of the most stunning outdoor dining settings in Europe. I’ve documented terrace layouts, understanding how elevation affects experience, and how local wine traditions connect to the food you should bring.
Riverside Picnic Setups
Rivers like Vltava and Berounka create natural corridors for outdoor dining. I understand water safety, seasonal variations, access points, and how riverside locations change from spring floods through autumn low water.
Seasonal Food Pairing
What you eat outdoors should match the season and location. Spring calls for different foods than autumn. Riverside spots pair with certain traditions. Vineyard areas have their own culinary logic. I teach the why behind these pairings.
Why I Do This Work
Outdoor dining isn’t just eating outside. It’s understanding the land beneath you. It’s respecting local traditions that have developed over centuries. It’s creating meaningful connections between people and nature.
Too many guides treat picnic spots like they’re all the same — just find a spot with a view and you’re done. That’s not how I work. I believe each location has its own character, its own story. The way light hits a vineyard terrace at sunset isn’t the same as morning light. A riverside spot in spring when water’s high requires different planning than summer when it’s low.
What drives me is helping people experience Czech countryside authentically. Not as tourists collecting Instagram photos, but as visitors who understand what they’re looking at and why it matters. That’s the kind of outdoor dining guide I create.
“Outdoor dining is more than just eating outside; it’s about understanding the land, respecting local traditions, and creating meaningful connections with nature.”
Educational Guides I’ve Created
Detailed articles exploring Czech picnic locations, regional specialties, and seasonal dining strategies
Scenic Meadows Worth Visiting Across Czech Regions
Comprehensive guide to meadow locations throughout Bohemia and Moravia, covering seasonal characteristics and accessibility.
Vineyard Terraces and Wine Region Picnicking
Explore South Moravian vineyards as outdoor dining destinations, with details on terraces, wine traditions, and food pairings.
Riverside Picnic Setups and Waterside Locations
Guide to riverside dining spots along major Czech rivers, including seasonal variations and safety considerations.
Seasonal Food Pairing Tips for Outdoor Meals
Learn how to match foods to seasons and locations, respecting Czech culinary traditions and regional specialties.