Bílé potoky

Bílé potoky is a small but ecologically remarkable nature reserve tucked into the southeastern edge of the White Carpathians, about 3 km from Valašské Klobouky on the way toward Brumov-Bylnice. Covering just 8.78 hectares, the reserve has been protected since 1982 — a modest patch of land that concentrates natural features rarely found together elsewhere in the region.

What makes the site unusual?

The reserve takes its name ("White Streams") from the numerous springs that emerge here at an elevation of 380–500 metres. As the water travels, it deposits dissolved calcium carbonate as tufa (calcareous sinter), leaving pale, crusty coatings on stones and vegetation. The area also shows pseudokarst phenomena — an uncommon sight in this part of Moravia, since classic karst landscapes are usually associated with limestone bedrock, while pseudokarst forms through different geological processes. This combination makes the site interesting not only for botanists but for geologists as well.

Meadows that survive only through mowing

The second reason for protection lies in the exceptionally well-preserved, species-rich wet meadows, home to a number of orchid species that have become the reserve's signature attraction. Left unmanaged, these meadows would quickly be overtaken by shrubs and lose the open character that rare plants depend on. That is why volunteers and staff from the White Carpathians Protected Landscape Area administration mow the grasslands by hand every year, using scythes in the same traditional way local farmers once did. In autumn, a flock of sheep grazes the area, helping to keep the meadows open and supporting plant diversity. These mowing sessions sometimes double as community events organised together with nearby towns, blending nature conservation with the region's shepherding traditions.

Getting there

From Valašské Klobouky, the route heads toward Brumov-Bylnice, then turns left across a railway crossing in the direction of Královec, followed by roughly one kilometre along an unpaved track. This is a destination for visitors drawn to quiet, unassuming natural richness rather than built-up tourist infrastructure — there is no nature trail or designated viewpoint here, since the reserve's real value lies in its biodiversity rather than in scenery designed for visitors.

Frequently asked questions

What is Bílé potoky? It is a nature reserve in the White Carpathians protecting tufa-forming springs, pseudokarst phenomena, and species-rich meadows with orchids.

When was the reserve established? The area has been under protection since 1982.

How large is the reserve? It covers 8.78 hectares.

Why are the meadows mowed by hand? Manual mowing combined with autumn sheep grazing keeps the meadows open and prevents rare plant species, including orchids, from being crowded out by shrubs.

How do you get to the reserve? From Valašské Klobouky, take the road toward Brumov-Bylnice, turn left across the railway crossing toward Královec, then continue along an unpaved track.