Patočkova hora

Patočkova hora is a small but ecologically significant hill in the municipality of Neslovice, in the Brno-venkov district of the South Moravian Region. Covering little more than a single hectare, it protects one of the few remaining fragments of steppe vegetation in this part of the Czech Republic.

Location and setting

The hill rises northeast of the village of Neslovice, in a spot known locally as "Na kopečkách." It's an unassuming, gently rounded elevation that doesn't immediately reveal its ecological value — that becomes clear only in spring, when its rare flora comes into bloom and draws attention from nature lovers across the region.

Why the site is protected

The hill was designated a protected natural monument to preserve a surviving patch of steppe grassland — a habitat that once covered many dry, sun-exposed slopes across Moravia but has become increasingly rare as agricultural land use changed over the decades. The key species under protection is the pasque flower (koniklec velkokvětý), a plant with large, bell-shaped purple blossoms that appear in early spring, among the first wildflowers to signal the changing season. Conservation efforts here date back to 1984, when systematic care of the remaining steppe vegetation and its associated plant life began.

What to see

The main reason to visit Patočkova hora is the large-flowered pasque flower itself. During its blooming period in early spring, the slopes of the hill are dotted with its distinctive purple flowers, creating a scene rarely found elsewhere in this part of Moravia. It's a highlight for botany enthusiasts and nature photographers who appreciate quiet, low-key sites away from crowds.

Beyond its botanical interest, the hill also offers a surprisingly wide view over the surrounding countryside. From the top, visitors can see more than half of the villages belonging to the Kahan microregion — a scenic panorama stretching across nearby settlements, fields, and the gentle hills typical of this part of South Moravia. It makes for a good short stop during a longer walk through the area, offering a chance to pause and take in the region from a different vantage point.

Best time to visit

The ideal time to visit is early spring, during the flowering period of the pasque flower, when the hill is at its most visually striking. Outside this window, Patočkova hora remains a peaceful viewpoint, well suited to a brief stop as part of a longer route through the Kahan microregion.

Getting there

The hill sits right next to Neslovice, making it an easily accessible destination for both local residents and visitors passing through the area around Brno. The protected site is managed by the South Moravian Regional Authority, which oversees the preservation of its natural features.

Frequently asked questions

What is Patočkova hora? It's a small protected natural monument in the municipality of Neslovice, preserving remnants of steppe vegetation, including the large-flowered pasque flower.

Since when has the site been protected? The area has been under protection since 1984.

What is there to see at the site? The blooming pasque flower in spring, along with a wide view over the villages of the Kahan microregion.

When is the best time to visit Patočkova hora? Early spring, during the pasque flower's blooming period, offers the most striking experience.