Peliny

Peliny is a small but strikingly scenic nature reserve right on the edge of Choceň, on the right bank of the Tichá Orlice river, between Choceň and Brandýs nad Orlicí. A short walk of just a few minutes from the town square is enough to reach it, making it one of the most accessible pockets of wild nature in the Pardubice region.

Where does the name Peliny come from?

The reserve takes its name from Pelův mlýn, a water mill that once stood here by the river and was first recorded in written sources as early as 1407. The reserve itself, covering a modest 3.31 hectares, was established in 1948, making it one of the older protected areas in the area.

What makes this place special?

The main reason for the reserve's protection is its steep walls and striking rock pillars made of opuka (calcareous marlstone), rising up to 35 metres above the Tichá Orlice riverbed. Centuries of weathering have carved the rock into unusual, fanciful shapes — some formations resemble the silhouette of a camel, others bring to mind the profile of a Native American. These sculpted rocks draw both geology enthusiasts and casual walkers looking for an unusual landscape just steps from town.

Peliny also lies along an important migration corridor connecting the warmer regions of Moravia and Bohemia, giving the area significant value for the movement of plant and animal species that favour a warmer microclimate.

What plants and animals live here?

The reserve protects a talus slope forest, home to plants such as klokoč zpeřený (European bladdernut), tařice skalní (rock alyssum), and the Martagon lily — species tied to warm, rocky habitats. The variety of microhabitats also makes Peliny an important refuge for snails: researchers have recorded as many as 50 species here, making it one of the more diverse malacological sites in the region.

Birdlife includes the great spotted woodpecker, great tit and blue tit, nuthatch, and short-toed treecreeper. The Eurasian tawny owl can sometimes be heard calling from the rocks, and the Eurasian eagle-owl — one of Europe's largest birds of prey — occasionally visits, and possibly even nests, in the area.

Planning a visit

Thanks to its closeness to the centre of Choceň, Peliny makes an ideal short stop while exploring the town, or a stopover on a longer walk along the Tichá Orlice valley, for example toward Brandýs nad Orlicí. Bring a camera — the rock formations look their best in the afternoon light, when the low sun brings out the texture of the opuka rock.

Frequently asked questions

How large is the Peliny reserve? The reserve covers an area of 3.31 hectares.

When was the reserve established? Peliny was placed under protection in 1948.

Where does the reserve's name come from? From Pelův mlýn, a mill first mentioned in records in 1407 that once stood nearby.

What is the main reason for protecting this site? Rock walls and pillars up to 35 metres tall made of opuka, along with rich, warmth-loving flora and fauna, including 50 species of snails.

How far is it from the centre of Choceň? Just a few minutes' walk from the town square.