About this place
Cidlinský hřeben is a nature monument protecting a stretch of old-growth forest on the steep slopes of two hills, Kozlov (606 m) and Hůra (519 m), straddling the cadastral territories of Cidlina, Kněžnice and Libuň in the Jičín district, in the Podkrkonoší region near Lomnice nad Popelkou. The protected area stretches between the villages of Pekloves and Košov, covering nearly 136 hectares at elevations of 425 to 606 metres.
What does this nature monument protect?
The main purpose of protection is to preserve large areas of natural forest vegetation on the steep slopes of the Kozlov ridge and the Hůra hill. These woodlands are surviving remnants of forest cover that once extended much further across this part of the Czech Republic, before agriculture and forestry reshaped the landscape. The forest complex running from Pekloves to Paseky stands out for its rich herbaceous undergrowth, a sign of long ecological continuity with little human disturbance.
Why are ants such a big deal here?
Among naturalists, Cidlinský hřeben is known for one particular claim to fame: it hosts the largest known concentration of forest ant colonies in the entire Podkrkonoší region. The large mounds built by wood ants are not just numerous here — they also serve as an indicator of a healthy forest ecosystem, since these insects depend on stable, undisturbed habitat conditions, abundant deadwood and diverse ground vegetation to sustain such extensive colonies.
When was the area protected?
The nature monument was formally declared on 4 January 1999, although the underlying decision to protect the site dates back to 29 July 1998. Since then, the territory has been managed and monitored by the Regional Authority of the Hradec Králové Region.
What does the landscape look like?
The ridge has a distinctly undulating profile, with the two summits, Kozlov and Hůra, separated by valleys, and slopes steep enough that large parts of the forest were never suitable for intensive commercial exploitation. That very inaccessibility is likely what allowed the woodland to retain its natural character over decades, if not longer.
Who is this place for?
Cidlinský hřeben appeals mainly to nature lovers, botanists and anyone interested in entomology, offering a forest close to its natural state, with rich ground flora and visible traces of social insect activity. The surrounding area near Lomnice nad Popelkou and Český ráj also has other viewpoints and hiking trails that pair well with a visit here as part of a longer trip through the Podkrkonoší region.
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is Cidlinský hřeben located? On the border of the Cidlina, Kněžnice and Libuň cadastral territories in the Jičín district, between the villages of Pekloves and Košov, in the Podkrkonoší region.
How large is the nature monument? Around 135.8 hectares, at elevations between 425 and 606 metres.
When was the area given protected status? Formally since 4 January 1999, following an initial decision on 29 July 1998.
What is the main subject of protection? Natural forest communities on the steep slopes of Kozlov and Hůra, plus the largest concentration of forest ant colonies in the Podkrkonoší region.
Who manages this area? The Regional Authority of the Hradec Králové Region.
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