Zemská brána

The Zemská brána Nature Reserve is one of the most scenic spots in the Orlické hory (Eagle Mountains), located just north of the village of Klášterec nad Orlicí in the Ústí nad Orlicí district of the Czech Republic. The reserve lies within the Orlické hory Protected Landscape Area and covers just under 90 hectares. It protects a rocky gorge carved by the Divoká Orlice river, together with the forested slopes, riverside meadows, and rock formations rising directly from the riverbed.

What can you see in the reserve?

At the heart of the reserve is a deep, rocky canyon through which the fast-flowing Divoká Orlice river cuts its way. Over thousands of years, the river has carved a narrow passage through the local bedrock, creating a landscape that resembles a mountain gorge — a feature that gave the reserve its name. The slopes above the river are covered with natural mixed forest, while lower down, near the water, remnants of riverside meadows survive, providing important habitat for plant and animal species tied to both rocky and aquatic environments.

A defining landmark of the area is the stone Zemská brána bridge, built in 1901, which forms a symbolic "gateway" into the reserve and lends the whole area its name. Nearby stands the wooden Pašerácká lávka footbridge, spanning the Divoká Orlice. Its name recalls the history of this border region, where smuggling across the Czech-Polish frontier once took place.

An educational trail through the reserve

A nature trail roughly 2.3 kilometers long runs through the reserve, fitted with ten information panels. The route introduces visitors to the natural features of the valley — its geology, flora, and fauna tied to the river — as well as to the region's history, including the smuggling activity once common along this border area. The trail is easily accessible on foot and ranks among the more popular walking routes in this part of the Orlické hory.

History of the reserve's protection

The Zemská brána Nature Reserve was established in 1987 to preserve the unique landscape of the river's rocky gorge along with the surrounding forest and meadow communities. The valley had long been valued by local residents for its scenic views and its wild, hard-to-reach character, which eventually led to its formal protection.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the reserve located? The reserve lies north of the village of Klášterec nad Orlicí, in the Orlické hory, within the Orlické hory Protected Landscape Area.

Where does the name Zemská brána come from? The name comes from a stone bridge built in 1901, whose shape resembles a gateway leading into the rocky river valley.

How long is the educational trail? The trail is about 2.3 kilometers long and passes through ten stops with information panels on the area's nature and history.

What is the reserve mainly protecting? It protects the rocky gorge of the Divoká Orlice river, along with the forested slopes and riverside meadows that surround it.