Nad Mlýnem

Nad Mlýnem is a small nature reserve in northwestern Prague, tucked into the valley of the Šárecký Stream near the Na Mlýnku tram stop. The site has been under protection since 1968 and covers just 3.91 hectares, yet it packs an unusually rich mosaic of rocky and steppe habitats into that small footprint — a rare find so close to the center of a major European capital.

What makes this reserve special?

At the heart of the protected area is a rocky, slate-covered slope rising above a bend in the Šárecký Stream. Above it stretches a meadow that drops steeply toward the road running along the valley floor, while the upper part of the site holds several smaller patches of steppe and forest-steppe vegetation. This patchwork of microhabitats supports a surprising number of protected plant species, along with significant invertebrate fauna — together with the rocky promontory itself, these were the main reasons the site was granted protected status.

How is the site managed?

Keeping the open, steppe-like character of the vegetation intact takes ongoing work. Meadows are mowed as needed and partly grazed by managed flocks of sheep and goats, a traditional method that mimics historical land use and keeps the steppe communities from being overtaken by trees and shrubs. Alongside this, rangers work to reduce non-native and invasive species, most notably hawthorn and black locust, which would otherwise crowd out the light-loving native steppe plants.

How do visitors reach and explore it?

A blue-marked hiking trail connecting the Church of St. Matthew with Dolní Šárka runs directly through the reserve, making Nad Mlýnem an easy addition to a longer walk through the Šárka valley. It's an appealing option for anyone wanting to experience Prague's wilder side without leaving the city: rocky slopes, valley views, and steppe vegetation combine here into a landscape that feels far removed from the urban surroundings just beyond the hillside.

Frequently asked questions

Can visitors walk through the Nad Mlýnem reserve? Yes — a marked blue hiking trail passes through the site, so it can be explored independently by following the designated path.

Since when has the area been protected? The site has held protected status since 1968.

How large is the reserve? The protected area covers 3.91 hectares.

Why was this site protected? Because of its rocky promontory with rocky steppe and forest-steppe habitats that support protected plant species and notable invertebrate fauna.

How is the reserve maintained? Through regular mowing and partial grazing by sheep and goats, along with the removal of invasive tree species, chiefly hawthorn and black locust.

What's the best way to get there? The easiest approach is from the Na Mlýnku public transport stop, from which the reserve lies immediately to the west.