Kunštátská obora

Kunštátská obora is a protected natural monument on the southwestern edge of the small town of Kunštát, in the Blansko district of the South Moravian Region in the Czech Republic. It forms part of the Halasovo Kunštátsko nature park and occupies the grounds of a former castle game reserve directly adjacent to Kunštát Castle.

What exactly is protected here?

The site protects old-growth deciduous forest stands surrounding the castle hill, together with the bird nesting sites they support. The area is managed by the Regional Office of the South Moravian Region, whose main goal is to allow the natural development of different types of deciduous woodland, with a particular emphasis on encouraging spontaneous forest regeneration rather than artificial replanting. The mature oaks, beeches and other broadleaf trees provide hollows and shelter that make the reserve an important habitat for numerous forest bird species, including woodpeckers and owls.

Why is it called an "obora"?

The Czech word obora historically refers to an enclosed hunting ground where nobility kept game — typically red deer and fallow deer — for hunting purposes. Kunštátská obora began life exactly this way, as a game park attached to the castle, which explains why it sits right next to the former residence of the noble family that once ruled Kunštát. Over time its hunting function faded in favor of nature conservation, and the former game park retained valuable old forest that survived precisely because the land was never intensively exploited economically.

How can visitors explore it?

An educational nature trail runs through the natural monument, allowing visitors to take in the local flora and fauna at a relaxed pace, with information panels along the way explaining the site's history and the species found there. The trail is easily reached from the center of Kunštát, making it a convenient destination for a short afternoon walk combined with a visit to the castle itself.

Why is it worth visiting?

Kunštátská obora combines natural value with historical context — walking among the old trees, it is easy to imagine how the site looked when it served as a hunting ground for local nobility. It also offers a good opportunity for birdwatching in a natural setting away from crowds, and its proximity to Kunštát Castle makes it simple to combine a visit here with broader sightseeing in the Kunštátsko region.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Kunštátská obora located? On the southwestern edge of Kunštát, in the Blansko district of the South Moravian Region, directly next to Kunštát Castle.

What is the main subject of protection? Old-growth deciduous forest stands together with bird nesting sites and natural forest regeneration processes.

Can visitors walk through the area? Yes, an educational nature trail runs through the site and is open to the public.

Who manages the reserve? The Regional Office of the South Moravian Region.

Is it worth combining with a visit to Kunštát Castle? Yes, the two sites are close enough to easily visit together in one trip.