Olšina u Skleného

Olšina u Skleného is a small yet ecologically significant nature reserve located in the cadastral area of the village of Sklené near Žďár nad Sázavou, in the heart of the Žďárské vrchy hills on the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands. Covering just 6.27 hectares, it protects one of the best-preserved fragments of waterlogged alder woodland and peat meadows in this part of the Czech Republic.

Where exactly is the reserve located?

The reserve lies at an elevation of 720–730 metres above sea level, in the headwater area of the Sklenský potok stream. Constant seepage of groundwater and the proximity of springs have shaped an unusually damp local microclimate, allowing a distinctive assemblage of wetland vegetation to survive here.

What is the reserve protecting?

The reserve was established in 1985 to protect a unique plant community closely related to so-called spruce-alder groves, together with peat meadows that host a rich range of protected and endangered plant and animal species. It is precisely this combination of alder woodland, waterlogged meadows and peat bog that gives the site such high natural value — habitats of this kind have become increasingly rare across the wider Highlands landscape.

What does the woodland look like?

The core of the reserve consists of a now rarely encountered community close to spruce-alder groves. Black alder (Alnus glutinosa) clearly dominates, and on this permanently waterlogged site it develops striking, clearly visible stilt roots that raise the trunk above the level of water and mud. This is one of the most recognisable features of the local forest and, at the same time, evidence of the long-term waterlogging of the terrain.

Towards the edges of the reserve, alder gives way increasingly to Norway spruce (Picea abies), which tolerates the somewhat drier — though still moist — conditions found at the margins of the site better. This zonation, from a wet alder-dominated core to more spruce-influenced edges, is typical of this type of habitat and is clearly noticeable to an attentive visitor.

Why is this place worth attention?

Olšina u Skleného is not a reserve geared towards mass tourism — it is above all a site of natural-history importance, preserving a relic of the older landscape of sub-montane peat bogs and alder groves. For anyone interested in the nature of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, however, it is a place well worth a visit: it offers a chance to see what a largely untouched wetland forest looks like, complete with the characteristic stilt roots of the alders and a rich, moisture-loving understorey flora.

The reserve lies close to other protected areas of the Žďárské vrchy hills, making it a convenient stop for anyone planning a longer trip through the natural highlights of the Vysočina region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Olšina u Skleného reserve located? In the cadastral area of the village of Sklené near Žďár nad Sázavou, within the Žďárské vrchy hills in the Vysočina region, at an elevation of 720–730 metres above sea level.

How large is the protected area? The reserve covers 6.27 hectares.

When was the reserve established? In 1985.

What tree species dominate the reserve? Black alder (Alnus glutinosa) is the dominant species, forming characteristic stilt roots; Norway spruce (Picea abies) is more common along the edges.

What is the main reason this site is protected? The preservation of a rare community of waterlogged spruce-alder groves and peat meadows, together with a rich range of protected and endangered species.