Horecký kopec

Horecký kopec is a small but ecologically valuable nature reserve located about one kilometer southwest of the village of Hnanice, right next to the Austrian border, in the Znojmo district of the Czech Republic. The hill rises to between 288 and 312 meters above sea level, and the protected area itself covers a modest 1.4 hectares — yet that was enough to justify its designation as a protected natural monument on April 12, 2002.

Why is this site protected?

The reserve was established to preserve xerothermic steppe grasslands, remnants of the original meadows and pastures that once covered much of this border region. Such plant communities have become increasingly rare across Central Europe, and Horecký kopec is one of the few places where they survive in a nearly undisturbed state. The sun-baked, warm slopes create ideal conditions for plants and insects adapted to dry, nutrient-poor habitats.

What can visitors see here?

The species diversity packed into this small hill is remarkable. In early spring, the great pasque flower (Pulsatilla grandis) blooms here — one of the emblematic species of Central European steppe grasslands and a protected plant across much of the continent. Later, in the height of summer, goldilocks aster (Aster linosyris) covers the dry slopes with characteristic yellow carpets of flowers. Among the shrubs, the Gallic rose (Rosa gallica) stands out as a rare species that thrives specifically in this kind of warm, open terrain.

Beyond plants, the reserve is home to numerous insect species tied to steppe habitats, including butterflies and beetles that have become harder to find elsewhere in the country as such environments continue to disappear.

What does the surrounding landscape look like?

Horecký kopec sits within a landscape typical of the Czech-Austrian borderland — gently rolling hills overlooking vineyards and orchards characteristic of the Znojmo region. The proximity to the border and a mild local microclimate together create favorable conditions for warmth-loving species that are hard to find farther north. The nearby village of Hnanice, which serves as the reference point for the reserve's location, is known as a winemaking community, further underscoring the warm, sun-drenched character of this part of South Moravia.

Is it worth visiting?

Horecký kopec appeals to visitors interested in nature, botany, and landscape photography — especially in spring, during the pasque flower bloom, and in summer, when the goldilocks aster is in flower. It's a small site, but a representative example of the unique steppe ecosystems that have survived in southern Moravia thanks to long-term conservation efforts.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Horecký kopec located? About 1 km southwest of the village of Hnanice, in the Znojmo district, right next to the Austrian border.

When is the best time to visit? In spring, for the great pasque flower bloom, or in late summer, when goldilocks aster flowers.

How large is the protected area? The reserve covers 1.4 hectares.

Since when has this site been under nature protection? Since April 12, 2002, when Horecký kopec was designated a protected natural monument.