Kopce

Kopce is a protected natural monument located about one kilometer north of the village of Lidečko, in the Vsetín district, on the edge of the Vizovice Highlands within the Komonec range. The reserve sits at an elevation of 645–680 meters above sea level and covers a compact area of roughly 150 by 60 meters — yet within that small footprint lies a geomorphological phenomenon that draws both geologists and hikers exploring the Beskydy foothills.

What is there to see?

At the heart of the site is a massive sandstone landslide, on whose slopes pseudokarst fissures and caves have formed. The phenomenon results from a process known as creep — the slow, underground subsidence of sandstone masses that make up the Carpathian flysch belt. As the rock shifts beneath the surface, cracks appear above ground in the form of sinkholes and rock trenches that look almost artificial, though they were shaped entirely by natural forces. At the base of these features, among fallen boulders and rock blocks, are the entrances to fissure caves.

Why is the site protected?

Kopce was formally declared a natural monument by a decree of the Zlín Region issued on February 11, 2019, which took effect on March 8, 2019. The site is administered by the Regional Authority of the Zlín Region. Protection covers both the unique geomorphological forms — the landslide and its associated caves — and the habitats connected to them. Pseudokarst formations of this kind within flysch sandstone are uncommon at a regional scale, which makes Kopce a valuable site for both research and environmental education.

How to get to Kopce

The site lies directly above the village of Lidečko, close to other well-known local landmarks such as Čertovy skály (the Devil's Rocks) and the viewpoints on the slope of Stráž hill (619.5 m above sea level). Hiking trails running through Lačnov toward Horní Lideč pass near the area, making it easy to combine a visit to Kopce with a longer walk through the surrounding hills.

What to know before visiting

Because of its protected status and the hazardous nature of the terrain — a steep landslide, open fissures, and cave entrances — visitors should stay on marked paths and take care near the edges of sinkholes. The area is not developed for casual cave exploration; the openings are natural, unsecured fissures rather than show caves.

Frequently asked questions

How does Kopce differ from the nearby Čertovy skály? Both formations arose from similar geological processes within the Carpathian flysch sandstone, but Kopce is distinguished mainly by its extensive landslide and the system of pseudokarst caves created by the creep phenomenon.

How large is the protected area? The Kopce natural monument covers approximately 150 by 60 meters, at an elevation of 645–680 meters above sea level.

Since when has the area been legally protected? Protection has been in effect since March 8, 2019, under a decree of the Zlín Region issued on February 11, 2019.

Can visitors enter the caves at Kopce? Cave entrances are found at the base of the landslide, but because the terrain is natural and unsecured, particular caution is required.