Moravanské lúky

Moravanské lúky is a nature reserve in Moravia, located in the Hodonín district just north of the village of Moravany and southeast of the small town of Koryčany. It sits on the northern slopes of the Bradlo hill and consists of a complex of waterlogged forest meadows that have survived here thanks to naturally moist conditions and the absence of intensive farming.

Why is this reserve protected?

The main reason for protecting Moravanské lúky is the presence of rare and endangered plant species, particularly from the orchid family. Visitors can find the lady's slipper orchid, easily recognized by its distinctive slipper-shaped flower, alongside the grass-leaved iris, a species with narrow, grass-like leaves and violet blooms. Both plants depend on very specific, stable habitat conditions, and they tend to disappear once wet meadows are drained or converted for agriculture or construction — their presence here signals just how ecologically valuable this small patch of land is.

Beyond the flora, the reserve also provides shelter for animal species tied to waterlogged forest meadows, a habitat type that has become increasingly scarce across the farmed landscape of Moravia. This makes Moravanské lúky an important piece of the region's biodiversity puzzle, even though the protected area itself is relatively small.

How to get there

The most convenient starting point is the "U křížku" parking area, from which a red-marked trail leads toward the so-called Koryčanská cesta. After roughly 1.5 kilometers along this route, visitors reach the first of the meadows that make up the reserve. The walk is short and undemanding, making Moravanské lúky a good option for a relaxed, few-hours outing in nature, away from the bustle of larger towns.

Because the area holds official nature reserve status, information boards have been placed along the trail describing the local plants and animals. These panels are a useful resource for visitors who want to learn more about the protected species found in the meadows without needing prior botanical expertise.

Who is this place for

Moravanské lúky will appeal above all to nature lovers, nature photographers, and anyone interested in orchid flora, whose natural habitats are becoming increasingly rare across Central Europe. Given the site's protected status, visitors should stick to marked trails and avoid picking any plants — this is essential for preserving the fragile balance of the habitat for future visitors.

The reserve's proximity to Koryčany and the village of Moravany also makes it easy to combine with exploring the surrounding area. It's a small but worthwhile stop for anyone planning a longer route through the Moravian countryside and the hills of the Chřiby region.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Moravanské lúky located? The reserve lies in the Hodonín district, north of the village of Moravany and southeast of Koryčany, on the northern slopes of the Bradlo hill.

What plant species can be seen here? Mainly rare orchids, including the lady's slipper orchid and the grass-leaved iris, along with other species typical of waterlogged meadows.

How do I reach the reserve? The best route starts from the "U křížku" parking area, following the red trail toward Koryčanská cesta — it's about 1.5 km to the first meadow.

Are there any facilities for visitors on site? Information boards describing the reserve's local flora and fauna are placed along the trail.