Lom Rasová

Lom Rasová is a small yet ecologically rich nature reserve tucked into the forests of the White Carpathians, southeast of the village of Komňa. Covering just 4.43 hectares, it was granted protected status in 1991, preserving what began as an industrial quarry and gradually turned into a valuable refuge for amphibians and rare plants.

What is hidden in this former quarry?

The site sits at an elevation of 540–550 metres in the Lopenická hornatina range, part of the wider White Carpathians geomorphological unit. During the first half of the 20th century, sandstone was extracted here, exposing distinctive flysch layers belonging to the White Carpathian unit. Once quarrying stopped, the pit — reaching 8 to 15 metres below the surrounding terrain — partially filled with water, forming clear pools up to four metres deep.

Why is the site protected?

The flooded quarry has become a haven for amphibians, most commonly the smooth newt, with the alpine newt and agile frog appearing less frequently. The area lies within Zone I of the White Carpathians Protected Landscape Area, reflecting its high conservation value. Botanists have recorded 199 plant species here, including two critically endangered orchids: the dense-flowered fragrant orchid and the marsh helleborine. Invertebrate life is equally impressive, with 37 species of ground beetles, 31 species of water beetles, and 19 species of dragonflies documented at the site — making it one of the more rewarding spots in the region for insect watching.

What does the surrounding area look like?

The quarry lies roughly 2.5 km southeast of the centre of Komňa, near the former Komňa, Nový Dvůr bus stop, close to a junction by the well-known Rasová inn. Surrounded by forest and set away from busy routes, it tends to attract nature lovers, amateur geologists, and hikers looking for a quiet stop off the beaten path.

Is it worth a visit with children or as part of a longer hike?

The reserve itself is compact, so exploring the quarry area doesn't take long, but it works well as a stop along a longer trek through the White Carpathians. Visitors should be careful near the water's edge, as the old quarry slopes can be steep. Given its protected status, it's recommended to stay on marked paths and avoid entering the water, so as not to disturb the amphibians' natural habitat.

What threats does the site face?

Despite its legal protection, the ecosystem at Lom Rasová isn't free of problems. One of the biggest challenges has been the unauthorised release of fish into the pond by visitors — the fish prey on amphibian larvae, contributing in recent years to a decline in newt numbers and other species dependent on this habitat.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Lom Rasová located? About 2.5 km southeast of the village of Komňa in the White Carpathians, at an elevation of 540–550 metres.

Can you swim in the quarry pond? No — the site is protected specifically to preserve amphibian and plant populations, not for recreational water use.

What kind of protection does the site have? It is a natural monument (přírodní památka) covering 4.43 hectares, established in 1991, located within Zone I of the White Carpathians Protected Landscape Area.

What's the most interesting thing to see here? A flooded former sandstone quarry with clear water, thriving newt populations, rare orchids, and a rich variety of dragonflies and water beetles.