Na Opukách

Na Opukách is a small but geologically fascinating nature reserve south of Volyně, in the Strakonice District of South Bohemia. The protected area covers a hilltop at 583 meters above sea level, located southeast of the village of Zechovice, right beside road I/4 connecting Volyně and Čkyně.

What makes this site special?

The reserve was established to protect a landscape of significant value — an area of scattered vegetation and surviving fragments of non-forest plant communities, unusual so close to a busy road. Its most distinctive feature is geological: the bedrock consists of migmatized cordierite-biotite paragneiss, into which a substantial vein of crystalline limestone (marble) is embedded, in places taking a calcitic-dolomitic form. This rare combination of rock types has long drawn the attention of geologists studying the structure of the massif.

Traces of past human activity are clearly visible across the site — the reserve preserves the remains of disused limestone quarries, where marble was once extracted. Over time, the abandoned workings became overgrown with vegetation, creating an additional niche for species that favor sun-exposed, rocky habitats distinct from the surrounding forest.

Nature of the reserve

A mosaic of habitats — from dry, rocky outcrops to scrub and remnants of meadow — supports a number of notable species. Among butterflies, the scarce swallowtail is one of the reserve's more elusive residents, favoring warm, south-facing slopes. Various forms of wild rose thrive here as well, well adapted to the poor, calcium-rich soils. The site is also used by nesting birds, which find shelter and breeding sites in the sun-warmed scrub and among the old quarry remains.

How to get there

The reserve sits directly alongside the I/4 main road on the route between Volyně and Čkyně, making it an easily accessible stop for anyone travelling that way by car. Its proximity to the village of Zechovice makes orientation simple — the protected hilltop is visible from the surrounding roads.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Na Opukách located? On a hilltop at 583 meters above sea level, southeast of the village of Zechovice, along road I/4 between Volyně and Čkyně, in the Strakonice District.

Why was the area protected? For its landscape-significant non-forest habitats and its unusual geology — paragneiss bedrock with an embedded vein of crystalline limestone (marble).

What can visitors see on site? The remains of former limestone quarries, varied rocky vegetation, and habitats supporting rare species such as the scarce swallowtail.

Is the reserve easy to reach? Yes — it lies directly along road I/4, making it accessible on foot or as a quick stop when driving this route.