About this place
Račí údolí is a nature reserve located roughly 3 km southwest of the town of Javorník, in the Jeseník District of the northeastern Czech Republic. Covering more than 62 hectares at elevations between 348 and 532 meters, it forms one of the more rewarding hiking destinations in the Rychlebské hory (Rychleby Mountains) area.
What makes the valley worth visiting?
At the heart of the reserve is the cascading Račí potok (Rácí stream), which carves a narrow, canyon-like section of the valley just over a kilometer long. This stretch is the main draw for visitors — steep, forested slopes and a rocky streambed create an impression of largely untouched wilderness. In spring, or after heavy rainfall, a small waterfall becomes visible; it formed as a result of soil erosion back in 2009.
Why is the area protected?
The reserve was established in 1998 to preserve forest stands with the character of primeval woodland. Beech-oak-linden forest dominates the terrain, with common beech (Fagus sylvatica) the most widespread broadleaf species and Norway spruce (Picea abies) the most common conifer. The site is managed by the Agency for Nature Conservation and Landscape Protection of the Czech Republic.
What wildlife can be found here?
The combination of old-growth forest and the valley's difficult terrain provides conditions favored by species that need undisturbed breeding habitat. Both black stork and eagle owl have been documented in the Račí údolí area — two bird species closely associated with extensive, quiet forest complexes.
What else is nearby?
Close to the reserve stands Tančírna, a Secession-style (Art Nouveau) historic building with protected monument status. It pairs naturally with a walk through the valley, combining the area's natural appeal with a glimpse of the region's architectural history.
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is Račí údolí located? The reserve lies about 3 km southwest of the town of Javorník, in the Jeseník District, within the Rychlebské hory range in the northeastern Czech Republic.
How large is the reserve? It covers more than 62 hectares, spanning elevations from 348 to 532 meters above sea level.
What is the main highlight of the valley? The canyon-like, cascading section of the Račí potok stream, just over a kilometer long, along with a small seasonal waterfall that appears in spring or after rain.
What animal species live in the reserve? Black stork and eagle owl have both been recorded here, species tied to large, undisturbed forest habitats.
Since when has the area been protected? The nature reserve was designated in 1998 to safeguard forest stands resembling primeval woodland.
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