Netřeb

Netřeb is a nature-and-history stop in the Domažlice region, where centuries-old yew trees grow around the ruins of a medieval castle. The reserve lies about 1.5 km south of the village of Kanice, at an elevation of 510–614 m, and covers just under 13.2 hectares.

Why is this place protected?

The reserve exists to protect ancient yews growing in a spruce forest around the ruins of Netřeb Castle. Around 200 specimens here are between 600 and 800 years old, making this stand a rarity on a European scale. Such a large and old population of common yew concentrated in one spot is exceptional even among other Czech nature reserves.

The history of Netřeb Castle

The castle on the hill was founded around 1325 by Děpolt of Rýzmberk. Today only ruins remain, partly hidden among the reserve's trees, which gives the walk a distinctive character — visitors pass through a protected natural area and the remnants of medieval defensive architecture at the same time.

When was the reserve established?

Protection of the area was established back in 1924, initially covering 20.5 hectares. The current reserve is somewhat smaller but still includes the most valuable stretches of old-growth yew around the ruins.

What can visitors see on site?

Besides the yews and the castle walls, the forest floor hosts rare plants such as common hepatica and green hellebore. Quieter visitors also stand a chance of spotting fallow deer, which live in the surrounding woods. The area remains fairly wild and uncrowded, which makes it a good spot for observing nature away from the crowds.

How to get to the reserve?

The starting point is the village of Kanice in the Domažlice district, from which a roughly 1.5 km trail leads to the castle ruins and the reserve's boundaries. The terrain is uneven, so comfortable footwear is worth planning for, especially if the walk includes climbing up to the castle hill.

Frequently asked questions

What is worth seeing at the Netřeb reserve? Mainly the centuries-old yews, aged 600 to 800 years, and the 14th-century castle ruins that the forest has grown around.

How large is the reserve? It currently covers about 13.1 hectares, though at its founding in 1924 it spanned 20.5 hectares.

Can you see wildlife in Netřeb? Yes, fallow deer live in the surrounding forests, though spotting them takes patience and quiet.

Where is the reserve located relative to Kanice? The castle ruins and reserve lie about 1.5 km south of the village of Kanice, in the Domažlice district.

Who founded Netřeb Castle? The castle was built around 1325 by Děpolt of the Rýzmberk family.