Dunajovické kopce

Dunajovické kopce is a small but ecologically remarkable range of hills in South Moravia, rising above the village of Dolní Dunajovice in the Břeclav district. Designated a national nature monument, it protects one of the region's last surviving patches of steppe vegetation, surrounded on all sides by farmland and vineyards.

Where are Dunajovické kopce located?

The hills form a narrow north–south ridge stretching between the villages of Březí, Dolní Dunajovice and Brod nad Dyjí. The area splits into two ridges: the western Přední dunajovický hřbet and the eastern Zadní dunajovický hřbet. The highest point of the whole area is Velká Slunečná at 286 meters above sea level, while the peak of Janská hora reaches almost the same elevation at 285 meters. Although the difference in height compared to the surrounding plain is modest, the hills stand out clearly in the landscape as a rugged, stony ridge rising above flat cultivated fields.

Why is this site protected?

Covering a total of 107.16 hectares, the area was declared a national nature monument in 1990. It consists of several separate, scattered localities, mostly sun-exposed steppe slopes that were farmed for centuries before being abandoned. This history of cultivation followed by neglect is precisely what allowed a fully developed, steppe-like ecosystem to form here — a habitat type that has become rare across Central Europe.

What can visitors see here?

On a handful of vegetation "islands" preserved among the surrounding vineyards, an exceptionally valuable steppe flora has survived. Species found here include the dwarf Russian almond (mandloň nízká), a low shrub with pink blossoms that flowers in early spring; Crambe tataria, recognizable by its small white flower clusters; Dictamnus albus (burning bush), known for its strongly scented, volatile essential oils; and Iris pumila, one of Europe's smallest wild iris species. This combination of species makes Dunajovické kopce one of the most important sites for steppe flora and fauna anywhere in South Moravia.

Who is this place for?

The hills draw botany enthusiasts and nature photographers, especially in spring when the steppe plants are in full bloom. They also make for a quiet walk with views over Moravian vineyards and the surrounding villages, away from the crowds typical of the region's better-known Pálava attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Is Dunajovické kopce a reserve or a nature monument? Formally it is a national nature monument (národní přírodní památka), not a reserve — the area received this status in 1990.

How large is the protected area? The total area is 107.16 hectares, spread across several separate, non-contiguous sections.

What is the highest point? The highest elevation is Velká Slunečná at 286 meters above sea level, with Janská hora close behind at 285 meters.

What is worth seeing in spring? Flowering steppe species such as the dwarf Russian almond, Crambe tataria, Dictamnus albus, and Iris pumila — all of them nationally rare.

How do you get there? The hills rise directly above the village of Dolní Dunajovice, between it and the villages of Březí and Brod nad Dyjí, in the Břeclav district of South Moravia.