Koda

Koda is a national nature reserve located in the Czech Karst (Český kras), in the Beroun district, spanning parts of the municipality of Tetín along with the neighboring villages of Korno, Srbsko and Tobolka. The reserve stretches across elevations of 220 to 467 meters above sea level and covers nearly 500 hectares, making it one of the largest and most significant protected areas in this part of Czechia. The site received protected status back in 1952, and it is currently managed by the Czech Nature and Landscape Protection Agency.

Why visit Koda?

What makes Koda remarkable is the sheer diversity packed into a relatively compact area. Within its borders you'll find floodplain and slope forests, acidic oak stands and lime-loving beech woods, oak-hornbeam thickets, and — perhaps most strikingly — xerothermic grasslands and rocky steppe that feel more Mediterranean than Central European. This mosaic of habitats makes the reserve one of the most ecologically valuable stretches of the entire Czech Karst region.

What lies beneath the hills?

Beneath the surface, the reserve hides nearly fifty documented caves, several of which carry real archaeological importance — traces of ancient settlement and remains of prehistoric fauna have been found within them. The largest is Martina Cave, stretching roughly 450 meters and ranking among the more significant cave systems in the region. The karst character of the terrain, with limestone bedrock shaped by water over millions of years, is palpable throughout the reserve, from exposed rock faces to hidden entrances leading into underground passages.

What birds can you spot here?

Koda is a genuine haven for birdwatchers. Seven critically endangered bird species nest within the reserve, including the common buzzard and rough-legged buzzard, the collared flycatcher, black stork, peregrine falcon, white-tailed eagle, and wallcreeper. The presence of so many rare species is a direct result of the habitat diversity here — rocky cliffs offer shelter to birds of prey, while old-growth forests and scrubland provide nesting grounds for smaller species.

Who is this reserve for?

Koda is an ideal destination for anyone drawn to nature, geology, or natural history — a walk along its trails lets visitors experience both rocky steppe and shaded deciduous forest within a short distance. It also makes a convenient stop for those exploring nearby Tetín, a historic town linked to the legend of Saint Ludmila, or for travelers touring the wider Czech Karst area.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the Koda reserve located? It lies in the Czech Karst, in the Beroun district, across the municipalities of Korno, Srbsko, Tetín and Tobolka, at elevations of 220–467 meters.

How large is the protected area? The reserve covers approximately 497 hectares.

Since when has Koda been protected? The area was declared a national nature reserve in 1952.

What is the reserve's main natural highlight? The combination of diverse habitats — from xerothermic grasslands to lime-loving beech forests — along with an extensive cave system that includes the 450-meter-long Martina Cave.

What animals can be seen here? The reserve is home to seven critically endangered bird species, including the black stork, peregrine falcon, and white-tailed eagle.