Brdatka

Brdatka is a nature reserve on a steep, forested slope above the Berounka River, between the towns of Křivoklát and Zbečno, within the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area in the Czech Republic. Established in 1984, the reserve protects plant communities growing on rocky and scree slopes, along with a stretch of natural, mixed-age forest that has survived here in a near-original state.

What grows and lives in the reserve?

Sessile oak dominates the tree cover, accompanied by wild service tree and whitebeam, along with birch and hornbeam. This species diversity sets the Brdatka forest apart from the more uniform commercial plantations found across much of the Czech countryside. The wooded slopes create favorable conditions for both heat-loving and rock-dwelling species, so the reserve is home to fire salamanders, green lizards, smooth snakes, and dice snakes — animals associated with damp woodland as well as sunlit, stony terrain.

Why is this forest so well preserved?

Since the Middle Ages, the Křivoklátsko region served as a royal hunting ground, which for centuries limited deforestation and intensive forestry — rulers wanted the land kept for hunting rather than timber. In the 19th century, during the Romantic era, the estate came under the care of the Fürstenberg family, who owned Křivoklát Castle from the 18th century until 1929 and helped save both the castle and its surrounding forests from ruin. This combination of historical circumstances left the woods around Brdatka with an unusually high degree of naturalness, which is why they are valued today as a site worth protecting.

How can you explore Brdatka?

A nature trail runs through the reserve, connecting the town of Křivoklát with the village of Zbečno. The route covers just under 7 kilometers and includes sixteen information panels introducing hikers to the local flora, fauna, and history of the area. The path follows a steep, wooded slope above the meandering Berounka River, offering views over the valley along the way. It's a popular choice for visitors to Křivoklát Castle who want to pair a visit to the historic monument with a walk through wild, protected nature.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Brdatka reserve located? On a steep slope above the Berounka River, between Křivoklát and Zbečno, within the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area in the Czech Republic.

When was the reserve established? The Brdatka nature reserve was declared in 1984.

What does the reserve protect? Plant communities on rocky and scree slopes, along with natural deciduous forest dominated by sessile oak, wild service tree, and whitebeam, as well as the animal species living there, including fire salamanders and green lizards.

How long is the Brdatka nature trail? Just under 7 kilometers, with sixteen information panels, connecting Křivoklát and Zbečno.

Is it worth combining a visit with Křivoklát Castle? Yes — the trail starts near the castle, making it easy to combine a visit to the historic building with a walk through the reserve.