Na Pilavě

Na Pilavě is a small but ecologically valuable nature reserve in the Czech Republic, located in the Central Bohemian Region, Kladno District, within the Džbán Nature Park. The protected area lies roughly 1.5 km south of the village of Bílichov and about 1 km west of the village of Líský, right along a blue-marked hiking trail. Sitting away from the main tourist routes, it tends to attract nature lovers and botanists rather than large crowds.

Why is this site protected?

Na Pilavě is one of the oldest protected areas within the Džbán region. Its protection status dates back to 17 April 1969, making it one of the earlier examples of nature conservation in this part of the Czech Republic. The site is classified under IUCN category IV, meaning it is managed specifically as a habitat and species management area — the emphasis is not simply on preserving the landscape, but on actively protecting particular endangered plant species that grow there.

What can you see here?

The main reason for the site's protected status is the presence of rare and endangered plant species. Among them is the black false hellebore (kýchavice černá), a critically endangered perennial with very limited populations in the Czech Republic. The reserve is also home to the dark red helleborine, a strongly threatened orchid species, as well as spruce rot fungus (hnilák smrkový) and the broad-leaved helleborine. The concentration of so many rare and protected species in such a small area points to unusual habitat conditions here, likely tied to the specific soil composition and microclimate of the valley.

Interestingly, the site was historically also known by another name — Kravský dolík, which translates loosely as "cow's hollow." This older, colloquial name suggests the area was familiar to local residents long before it received formal protected status.

How to get there

The reserve sits within the Džbán Nature Park, in the Kladno District of the Central Bohemian Region. The nearest reference point is the village of Bílichov, about 1.5 km to the north of the protected area. Access is via a blue-marked hiking trail, making it a relatively straightforward destination for visitors looking for a quiet walk surrounded by nature, away from the busier tourist attractions in the region.

Frequently asked questions

What is Na Pilavě? It is a nature reserve (přírodní památka) in the Czech Republic, protecting rare plant species, located within the Džbán Nature Park in the Kladno District.

When was the site protected? The area gained protected status on 17 April 1969 and is among the oldest protected sites in the Džbán region.

What plants grow here? The most notable species is the critically endangered black false hellebore. The reserve also hosts the dark red helleborine, spruce rot fungus, and broad-leaved helleborine.

How far is the nearest village? Bílichov lies about 1.5 km north of the reserve, and the village of Líský is roughly 1 km to the east.

Is the site easy for tourists to reach? Yes — although it lies off the main tourist routes, a blue-marked hiking trail provides straightforward access on foot for those exploring the surrounding area.