Blanský les Protected Landscape Area

Blanský les Protected Landscape Area is a designated conservation zone in South Bohemia, Czech Republic, covering 212 km² just north of the town of Český Krumlov. The area's administrative territory includes the village of Lhotka. The PLA was declared on 8 December 1989, with the goal of protecting well-preserved mixed forests, sites rich in flora and fauna, and the distinctive character of the surrounding landscape.

What does the terrain of Blanský les look like?

The protected area forms a horseshoe-shaped ridge of forested hills wrapping around the Křemže basin. Elevation varies considerably: the lowest point, in the Vltava river canyon, sits around 418–420 metres above sea level, while the highest point reaches roughly 1084–1087 metres. That highest point is Kleť, the best-known and most-visited peak in the entire range and a popular hiking destination.

What makes the area ecologically significant?

Blanský les stands out for its geological and mineralogical diversity, partly a result of its location not far from the Alps, sitting in the rain shadow of the Šumava (Bohemian Forest) mountains. Roughly 900 species of vascular plants have been recorded within the PLA. Limestone meadow "islands" scattered through the forested landscape carry their own distinct flora and vegetation, adding further botanical value beyond the surrounding woodland.

Within its boundaries the area contains a substantial number of protected sites — sources describe either ten nature reserves, eight natural monuments and one national nature reserve, or fifteen reserves overall, depending on how categories are counted and on the period referenced. One of the most notable is the Kleť nature reserve, protecting submontane mixed forest — a complex of acidophilic beech stands and fir-beech woodland, in places retaining a primeval-forest character. The reserve is home to mountain-dwelling snail species, including the crossed door snail (a type of clausiliid) among other mollusks adapted to damp, shaded forest floors, along with numerous beetle species, including ground beetles associated with decaying beech wood.

What historical landmarks can be found in Blanský les?

The protected area is not purely natural — it also holds significant historical sites. These include the remains of a Celtic oppidum near Třísov, Zlatá Koruna Monastery, the ruins of the Gothic castle Dívčí Kámen, and the heritage-listed village of Holašovice, known for its traditional South Bohemian folk architecture.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Blanský les located? In South Bohemia, Czech Republic, north of the town of Český Krumlov. Most of the territory lies within the Český Krumlov district, with smaller portions extending into the České Budějovice and Prachatice districts.

What is the highest peak in Blanský les? Kleť, at approximately 1084–1087 metres above sea level — the range's most recognizable summit and a popular destination for hikers.

When was the protected area established? The Blanský les Protected Landscape Area was declared on 8 December 1989.

Are there historical sites worth visiting in Blanský les? Yes — notably the ruins of Dívčí Kámen castle, Zlatá Koruna Monastery, the remains of the Celtic oppidum near Třísov, and the village of Holašovice.