Chloumek

Chloumek is a small but ecologically valuable nature monument located roughly 1.75 kilometers west of the village of Bečov, in the Most District of the Ústí nad Labem Region, Czech Republic. The protected area covers only 1.60 hectares and sits on the southwestern edge of the elongated Chlum ridge (259 m), about 400 meters from its main summit. Elevation within the reserve ranges from 215 to 252 meters above sea level.

When was the reserve established, and why?

Protection of this site was declared on January 20, 1969 by the Czech Ministry of Culture. Chloumek is classified as an IUCN Category III protected area, meaning it safeguards a specific natural feature rather than a broad ecosystem. The designation exists to preserve grass-steppe plant communities — dry, heat-loving grassland habitats that have become increasingly rare across Central Europe as land use has changed over the decades.

What grows and lives here?

Chloumek is best known for its collection of thermophilic (heat-loving) feather grasses. Three species grow on site: the beautiful feather grass (Stipa pulcherrima), Jan's feather grass (Stipa pennata), and the fine feather grass (Stipa tirsa) — all characteristic of steppe grasslands and protected in many parts of Europe today. Alongside them, the reserve hosts the stemless milk-vetch, the purple mullein, and St. Bernard's lily, species that depend on warm, dry, sun-exposed conditions to survive.

The site is also noted for its population of thermophilic insects, for which steppe grasslands like this one represent one of the few suitable habitats left in the region. The sparse vegetation and sun-baked slopes create exactly the microclimate these insects need — conditions that cooler, damper environments simply cannot offer.

What does the geology tell you?

Within the reserve lies a small, partly overgrown quarry that reveals spheroidal weathering patterns in nepheline rock. This volcanic rock is typical of the České středohoří range, a mountain chain shaped by Tertiary-period volcanic activity that also formed the Chlum ridge itself. The exposed rock face offers a compact, accessible look at the geological forces behind the surrounding landscape.

Why is it worth a visit?

Chloumek rewards visitors interested in rare plant communities and volcanic geology packed into a compact, easily walkable area. Its small size makes for a short, quiet stroll during which attentive visitors can spot grasses and insects rarely seen outside steppe habitats. For nature enthusiasts exploring the area around Bečov, it's a worthwhile, low-key stop that offers something different from the region's better-known attractions.

Frequently asked questions

How large is the Chloumek reserve? The protected area covers 1.60 hectares.

When was the reserve established? On January 20, 1969, by decision of the Czech Ministry of Culture.

What does Chloumek protect? Steppe grasslands, including rare feather grass species, other heat-loving plants, and thermophilic insects.

What kind of rock can be seen in the reserve? An old quarry exposes spheroidal weathering in nepheline, a volcanic rock typical of the České středohoří range.

How far is Chloumek from Bečov? About 1.75 kilometers west of the village, on the southwestern edge of the Chlum ridge.