Skalky

Skalky is a small yet striking natural monument set right beside the village of Havraníky, on the eastern edge of Podyjí National Park in the Znojmo district of the Czech Republic. The protected area consists of three separate rocky outcrops stretched along the road connecting Havraníky with the neighboring village of Šatov, with the highest point of the formation reaching 312 meters above sea level. The whole site spans elevations of roughly 265 to 312 meters, meaning even a short walk along the surrounding paths reveals noticeable changes in terrain and several worthwhile viewpoints over the Dyje river valley.

Why is this place protected?

The main purpose behind protecting Skalky is to preserve some of the most valuable and representative parts of the Podyjí National Park landscape. The rocky ridges, shaped by the weathering of hard crystalline rock typical of this part of the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, create a unique habitat for plants and animals adapted to dry, sun-exposed, and rocky conditions. It is precisely this combination of a rocky microclimate, steep slopes, and open terrain that earned the area its status as a protected natural monument.

What else is there to see nearby?

Skalky borders a much larger natural complex known as Havranické vřesoviště, or the Havraníky heath, which stretches between the villages of Popice and Hnanice on the right bank of the Dyje river. This is considered one of the largest and best-preserved heathland areas in the entire Podyjí region. The story of this landscape goes back to the medieval period, when the dense forests that once covered the area were cleared and the land began to be used as pasture for livestock. Grazing over the centuries encouraged the spread of heather and numerous heat-loving steppe plant species, which today make the site botanically distinctive.

Right next to Skalky, visitors will also find vineyards — the cadastral territory of Havraníky includes several vineyard plots, among them one actually named "Skalky," which remains in active cultivation. Wines from this plot enjoy a solid reputation, which is not surprising given the south-facing slopes and the rocky, well-drained soil — conditions well suited to growing grapevines.

How to get there and what to know before visiting

Havraníky is a winemaking village located about 6 kilometers south of the town of Znojmo, on the eastern edge of Podyjí National Park. Skalky lies a short distance from the village center, along the road leading toward Šatov, making it easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. The surrounding area is crisscrossed with hiking trails connecting Havraníky to Znojmo, Hnanice, and other attractions within Podyjí National Park, so a visit to Skalky can easily be combined with a longer outing across the region.

Frequently asked questions

Is Skalky a good spot for views? Yes, the rocky elevations reaching 312 meters above sea level offer viewpoints over the surrounding landscape, including the Dyje river valley and the nearby Havraníky heath.

Can you try local wine nearby? Yes, Havraníky is an active winemaking village, and the "Skalky" vineyard plot is among the well-regarded wine-growing sites in the Znojmo region.

Is the area suitable for families with children? The short rocky sections and gentle paths make this a good spot for a relaxed family walk, though caution near the rock edges is advisable.

What's the best way to combine this with other attractions? Consider extending the route to include the nearby Havranické vřesoviště heath and the trails leading toward Hnanice and the heart of Podyjí National Park.