Peperek

Peperek is a rocky nature reserve near the village of Račín, tucked into the Žďárské vrchy (Žďár Hills) highlands of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands. This modest but geologically striking rock ridge sits roughly 2 km southeast of the village of Velká Losenice, hidden in a forest at an elevation of 635–675 metres.

What will you see?

Peperek consists of a continuous rocky ridge about 300 metres long, split by two wide depressions shaped by pseudokarst processes. The rocks themselves are pyroxenite schists and quartzites, exposed along the edge of the Henzličky ridge through intense frost weathering during the Pleistocene. From the pseudokarst depressions, distinctive boulder streams flow outward — a lasting trace of periglacial conditions, when this region's climate resembled today's tundra environments.

The site has been protected as a natural monument since 1974 and covers 4.14 hectares. On the humus-enriched scree slopes, pockets of maple-beech forest have survived — a rare plant community known as the Lunario-Aceretum association, or "moonwort maple forest." It's one of the best-preserved fragments of this vegetation type anywhere in the region.

The name itself carries a quirky history: "Peperek" is a corrupted form of the German word "Bergwerk" (mine, mining works), a nod to the medieval silver mining that once took place here — as it did across much of the Žďár Hills.

How to get there?

The Peperek summit is reachable on foot via a yellow-marked hiking trail, connecting from Rozštípená skála or as part of the Hamerský okruh (Hamr circuit). It's a well-loved route among hikers exploring the Žďárské vrchy, linking into the broader trail network around Velká Losenice and Račín. The nearest larger town is Žďár nad Sázavou, about 5 km to the east.

When to visit?

The best window runs from April through October, when trails are dry and easy to navigate, and the maple-beech forest is in full leaf. Autumn brings an extra layer of appeal, as the maple foliage turns color across the slopes. Keep in mind that the reserve includes steep boulder fields — sturdy hiking boots are essential, and extra caution is needed after rain, when the rocks can turn slippery.

Who is it for?

Peperek appeals mainly to nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and anyone after a quiet, unhurried walk — this isn't a mass-tourism stop but a low-key spot valued by visitors seeking out the region's less obvious corners. The rocky ridge and boulder streams are a rewarding subject for nature photographers, while botanists will appreciate the rare vegetation clinging to the slopes.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is Peperek? It's a natural monument centered on a rocky ridge with pseudokarst features and boulder streams, located near Račín in the Žďár Hills, protected since 1974.

Where does the name Peperek come from? It's a corrupted version of the German word "Bergwerk" (mine), referencing the medieval silver mining once carried out in the area.

How do you reach Peperek? Follow the yellow-marked trail, for example from Rozštípená skála or along the Hamerský okruh circuit, near the village of Velká Losenice.

Is it suitable for families with children? The route is moderately demanding due to the rocky scree fields — older children used to hiking will find it an interesting, educational outing, but caution and proper footwear are a must.