Hornovltavické pastviny

Hornovltavické pastviny is a nature reserve in the Šumava mountains, stretching along the southern edge of the village of Kubova Huť in the Prachatice district, at an elevation of roughly 1,000 metres above sea level. The area lies within the Šumava Protected Landscape Area and was designated a natural monument in 2005. Its coordinates are 48.9775, 13.7739.

What does the reserve protect?

The main reason for protecting this area is its valuable minerotrophic peatlands with short-stemmed sedge vegetation, along with a mosaic of wetlands surrounding the Kubohuťský stream and numerous springs. This intricate habitat structure gives the reserve an unusually high diversity of bird species. Among the plants found here are bogbean, fir clubmoss, sphagnum mosses and narrow-leaved cottongrass — species typical of the wet, mountain habitats of the Šumava region.

How can you explore Hornovltavické pastviny?

A relatively easy educational trail runs through the reserve, about one kilometre long one-way, marked with seven information panels. The route requires no special physical preparation and is suitable for families with children. Access to the reserve is possible directly from the centre of Kubova Huť or from a nearby campsite — both entrances feature information boards with a map of the entire route.

Where does the name Kubova Huť come from?

The village of Kubova Huť sits in a mountain saddle on the south-western foot of Boubín, at an elevation of about 1,000 metres, within the Šumava Protected Landscape Area. The first written mentions of the settlement date back to 1728, when Johann Podschneider founded a glassworks there. The newly formed settlement was named after the castle administrator, Gubo, from whose name the village's current name derives.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to walk the educational trail? The route is about one kilometre one-way and relatively easy, so a round trip with time to read the information panels usually takes around an hour to ninety minutes.

Is there an entrance fee for the reserve? No, the area is freely accessible and free of charge — you can enter either from the centre of Kubova Huť or from the nearby campsite.

What can you see along the trail? Seven information panels introduce visitors to the peatlands, the mosaic of wetlands around the Kubohuťský stream, and the distinctive flora and fauna of this part of Šumava, including rare bog plants and a rich bird population.

When is the best time to visit? Given the wetland character of the terrain, late spring and summer are the best times to visit, when the peatland vegetation is fully developed and the trail is most accessible.

Is there anywhere nearby to stay longer? Yes, a campsite sits right next to the reserve and serves as one of the two entry points to the educational trail.