Háj u Lipova

Háj u Lipova is a small but ecologically valuable nature reserve on the southwestern edge of the village of Lipov, in the Hodonín district, where the White Carpathians meet the Kuželov basin. The protected area covers just over 3 hectares of woodland stretching along the left slope of the Velička river valley, at elevations between 233 and 256 metres above sea level. Despite its modest size, the site has long attracted botanists and nature enthusiasts as one of the region's better-preserved fragments of oak-hornbeam forest at the crossroads of Pannonian and Carpathian influences.

Why is this forest protected?

The site has been under protection since 1956, when the then Ministry of Education and Culture designated it a nature reserve. The reason was a well-preserved patch of oak-hornbeam woodland — a transitional type of forest combining features typical of lowland Pannonian woods with Carpathian elements, underpinned by a richly developed herbaceous layer. Part of the stand regenerated after historical coppicing, which is still visible today in the varied age structure of the trees.

What grows in the reserve?

The forest floor of Háj u Lipova is among the richest in the surrounding area. Species found here include the wild service tree, several rare orchid species, and early-spring herbs such as bloodroot. Among the legally protected plants are the martagon lily and the white helleborine. It is precisely this diversity of the understorey — a rarity in this part of Moravia — that was the main argument for placing the forest under protection.

What does the geology look like?

The bedrock of the reserve consists of sedimentary rocks of the Nivnice formation, dating from the Upper Paleocene to the Lower Eocene. It takes the form of fine- to medium-rhythmic flysch, with calcareous claystones alternating with sandstone layers. Luvisol soils dominate across most of the site, while closer to the river valley they transition into fluvisols shaped by periodic flooding.

What animals can be found here?

The reserve's fauna is typical of Carpathian oak-hornbeam forests, but the site also supports species that depend on old-growth timber and deadwood. Among insects, visitors may come across the stag beetle, a well-known indicator of well-preserved deciduous forest. Amphibians include the common toad, while breeding birds recorded here include the collared flycatcher and the golden oriole — species tied to mature deciduous stands rich in tree hollows and fruit.

Who is this place for?

Háj u Lipova is best suited to visitors with an interest in nature — amateur botanists, birdwatchers, or simply hikers looking for a quiet walk away from the crowds, surrounded by a forest of unusually high species diversity for the region. Given its small size and reserve status, it is important to stick to marked paths, avoid picking plants, and stay off the forest floor to protect the delicate undergrowth.

Frequently asked questions

When was the Háj u Lipova reserve established? The reserve was established in 1956 by decree of the Ministry of Education and Culture.

How large is the protected area? The reserve covers approximately 3.1 hectares.

What is the main reason for protecting this site? A well-preserved fragment of transitional oak-hornbeam forest between Pannonian and Carpathian types, with a rich herbaceous layer and rare plant species.

Where exactly is Háj u Lipova located? On the southwestern edge of the village of Lipov, along the Velička river valley, at an elevation of 233–256 metres above sea level.

Which plant and animal species are protected here? Among plants — the martagon lily and white helleborine; among animals — the stag beetle and birds such as the collared flycatcher and golden oriole.