Bučiny u Rakous

Bučiny u Rakous is a nature reserve set in a deeply cut valley of the Jizera River, on steep slopes stretching along the road that runs from Turnov to the settlement of Rakous. The reserve straddles the border between the Jablonec nad Nisou and Semily districts, west of the village of Koberovy, and extends along the left side of the Jizera valley between the settlements of Zbiroh, Michovka and Rohliny. It forms part of the Český ráj (Bohemian Paradise) Protected Landscape Area.

What does this reserve protect?

The reserve safeguards one of the best-preserved natural beech forests of the fertile-beech-forest type anywhere in Bohemian Paradise. The dominant tree is the European beech, with stands aged 80–120 years forming a dense, multi-layered canopy that closely resembles a natural, unmanaged forest. The protected area covers 24.64 hectares at elevations between 265 and 420 metres above sea level, and it was established in 1995.

What rock formations can be found here?

In the northern part of the reserve, on the valley's steep slopes, visitors can find rock formations typical of the sandstone landscape of Bohemian Paradise: rock pillars and outcrops, rock walls, fissure caves, and landslide fields created by erosion and mass movement on unstable ground. The combination of old-growth beech forest and these geological features gives the site significant natural and scenic value.

Why is access limited?

The reserve lies close to a public road near Rakous, but the steep terrain makes entering the protected area itself considerably difficult. In addition, the zones around rock walls and landslide fields carry a risk of occasional rockfall, which poses a potential danger to visitors. For this reason, exploring the reserve calls for caution, and venturing off marked routes is not advisable.

Who manages the area?

The reserve is administered by the Nature and Landscape Protection Agency of the Czech Republic (AOPK ČR), specifically its regional office in Liberec. The agency is responsible for monitoring the condition of the forest, protecting the rock formations, and balancing conservation needs with visitor safety.

What should you know before visiting?

Bučiny u Rakous is a destination for those interested in nature and geology rather than a classic viewpoint or a tourist trail with built infrastructure. At this point, the Jizera valley retains a wild, largely untouched character, offering an interesting contrast to the more heavily visited rock attractions of Bohemian Paradise, such as Hrubá Skála or Prachovské skály. Because the main priority here is protecting the old beech stands and the fragile rock formations, visits should be limited to observation from a safe distance, without climbing onto landslide fields or approaching rock walls too closely.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the Bučiny u Rakous reserve located? On the border between the Jablonec nad Nisou and Semily districts, in the Jizera river valley between Turnov and the settlement of Rakous, west of the village of Koberovy.

How large is the protected area? The reserve covers 24.64 hectares at an elevation of 265–420 metres above sea level.

What exactly does the reserve protect? Primarily an old, near-natural beech forest (beeches aged 80–120 years) along with rock formations — pillars, walls, fissure caves and landslide fields.

When was the reserve established? It was established in 1995.

Can visitors freely explore the reserve? Access is difficult due to the steep slopes, and there is a risk of rockfall near the rock formations, so caution and staying on safe routes is recommended.