Kamenný vrch

Kamenný vrch is a modest but ecologically remarkable hill on the Jevišovice Uplands, rising just north of the village of Heraltice in the Vysočina Region of the Czech Republic. Reaching 635 metres above sea level, it is protected as a nature monument for hosting one of the most valuable steppe-like meadows in this part of the country.

Why is this hill protected?

Kamenný vrch is designated a nature monument under Czech law and is classified internationally under IUCN Category IV, meaning it is managed specifically for the protection of habitats and species. The reason for its protection is the exceptional diversity of xerothermic (dry, warmth-loving) grassland growing on silicate bedrock — a substrate far less common for this type of vegetation in the Czech Republic than the limestone typically associated with such meadows. This unusual geology allows plant communities more typical of other regions to thrive here.

What makes the flora so special?

The hill's most notable botanical feature is one of the largest populations in the entire Czech Republic of the greater pasque flower (Pulsatilla grandis) growing on silicate ground. In early spring, the purple-white blooms of this protected species spread across the slopes, creating a striking seasonal display typical of dry grassland habitats. Alongside the pasque flower, Kamenný vrch supports numerous other thermophilic and protected plant species that depend on the sun-exposed, dry conditions of the slope — a microhabitat that is relatively rare in the surrounding region.

What animals live here?

The dry meadows are home to a rich community of invertebrates, including many species of day-flying butterflies that rely on flower-rich grassland for feeding and breeding. Among reptiles, the common (viviparous) lizard and the slow worm can be found basking on the stony, sun-warmed patches of the slope. Bird species associated with open, dry terrain also nest or forage here, including the woodlark, the red-backed shrike, and the blackcap.

How is the meadow kept open?

Left alone, this kind of grassland would gradually be overtaken by shrubs and forest. To prevent that and preserve the steppe character of the site, the meadow is managed through alternating sheep grazing and mowing — a practice that mimics traditional historical land use and keeps the habitat open enough for the pasque flower and its companion species to survive.

How to get to Kamenný vrch?

The hill sits right at the edge of Heraltice, a small village in the Třebíč district on the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands. Because of its modest elevation and proximity to the village, reaching the summit does not require a long hike, making it an accessible destination for a short nature walk — especially rewarding in early spring during the pasque flower bloom.

When is the best time to visit?

Early spring is the ideal season, when the greater pasque flowers are in bloom and the hill is at its most visually striking. Summer is better suited for observing butterflies and other insects drawn to the flowering grassland, while warm, dry days also offer good chances of spotting reptiles sunning themselves on the exposed rocks.

Frequently asked questions

How high is Kamenný vrch near Heraltice? The hill reaches 635 metres above sea level and lies directly north of the village of Heraltice.

Why is Kamenný vrch protected? It hosts an exceptionally rich xerothermic grassland on silicate bedrock, including one of the largest Czech populations of the greater pasque flower.

What wildlife can be seen there? Numerous butterfly species, reptiles such as the common lizard and slow worm, and birds including the woodlark, red-backed shrike, and blackcap.

How is the meadow maintained? Through alternating sheep grazing and mowing, which prevents overgrowth and protects the species dependent on open grassland.