Hádky

Hádky is a small but botanically remarkable natural monument located in Kornatice, part of the Milínov municipality, in the Plzeň-jih district of the Plzeň Region, Czech Republic. Covering just 5.63 hectares, it protects a fragment of old, thermophilic oak forest — a habitat type that once spread over much larger areas of this part of Bohemia but now survives only in scattered, small enclaves.

Why was this site protected?

The natural monument was established on 4 July 1956 by decree of the Ministry of Culture and Education. The reason for protection was the unique character of the old-growth oak stand, a heat-loving plant community that stands in sharp contrast to the surrounding spruce monoculture. Spruce, although dominant across many managed Czech forests, is not native to this type of habitat — which is precisely why the surviving patch of natural oak woodland carries such high ecological value.

What can visitors see at Hádky?

The forest floor forms a mosaic of species typical of thermophilic oak woodlands. Among them are several protected plants, including martagon lily, the long-leaved helleborine orchid, large-flowered honeywort (translated from the Czech medovník), wolfsbane monkshood (Aconitum lycoctonum), the twayblade-relative marsh orchid known locally as vemeník dvoulistý, and mezereon (Daphne mezereum). The undergrowth also includes reed-like grasses and columbine. This diversity means that, despite its modest size, the area functions as an important genetic reservoir for rare flora.

Notably, the northern part of the natural monument contains the remains of prehistoric burial mounds, evidence of human settlement in the area since ancient times. This adds a historical dimension to the site, linking its ecological value with archaeological significance.

Where is Hádky located and what's nearby?

The natural monument lies within the cadastral territory of Kornatice, part of the Milínov municipality (coordinates: 49°40′13.8″ N, 13°34′56.64″ E). The wider surroundings of the site fall within the Kornatický Stream Nature Park, meaning Hádky is not an isolated patch of greenery but part of a larger, landscape-protected corridor running along the stream valley. Nearby, in the Milínov area, stand the ruins of the Gothic Lopata Castle, making the region an appealing destination for visitors who want to combine a nature walk with some historical sightseeing.

Who is this place for?

Hádky suits botany enthusiasts and anyone looking for a quiet, short walk through old-growth woodland, rather than travelers seeking extensive infrastructure or long-distance trails. Given its protected status, the usual restrictions for natural monuments apply — visitors are advised to stay on marked paths and leave the plants undisturbed.

Frequently asked questions

What is Hádky? It's a natural monument (přírodní památka) covering 5.63 hectares, protecting an old oak forest with rare, heat-loving flora.

When was this protected area established? On 4 July 1956, by decree of the Ministry of Culture and Education.

What plants grow here? Among others, martagon lily, long-leaved helleborine, large-flowered honeywort, wolfsbane monkshood, and mezereon.

What else is found within the monument? The northern section preserves prehistoric burial mounds.

How do you get to Hádky? The site lies in Kornatice, part of the Milínov municipality in the Plzeň-jih district, right next to the Kornatický Stream Nature Park and the ruins of Lopata Castle.