Skalky na Sádku

Skalky na Sádku is a small but strikingly scenic nature reserve located in the Český les (Bohemian Forest) range near Postřekov, close to the Czech-Bavarian border. Protected since 1938, the site covers less than 4 hectares, making it one of the smaller yet longest-standing protected areas in the region.

Where exactly is this reserve located?

Skalky na Sádku sits at an elevation of roughly 800 meters above sea level, southwest of the village of Díly and west of Klenčí pod Čerchovem. It lies within the Český les Protected Landscape Area, a border region known for its dense forests and rocky ridges stretching along the frontier with Germany. The rock outcrops that give the reserve its name form a distinctive feature within the surrounding deciduous woodland.

What kind of natural environment does it protect?

The ecological core of the area is a rubble forest (suťový les) — a forest type that develops on rocky, stony terrain where tree roots must adapt to challenging growing conditions. Beech dominates the canopy, with spruce appearing occasionally. The trees grow on a limestone substrate, which supports a richer-than-average understory flora compared to the typically acidic crystalline bedrock found elsewhere in the Český les. This makes the reserve a small but notable pocket of calcium-loving plant species in a region where such conditions are otherwise scarce.

How do you get there?

The most convenient starting point is the village of Díly, from where a yellow-marked trail leads toward Klenčí pod Čerchovem. From there, a blue-marked trail known as the Baarova cesta continues to the Pod Sádkem crossroads, right at the edge of the reserve. A tourist trail runs along the western boundary of the protected area, and in winter this same path doubles as a cross-country skiing route — a popular option for visitors exploring the area outside the summer season.

Is there a viewpoint here?

Yes — a lookout point is located on the southwestern edge of the reserve, offering views over the surrounding hills and forests of the Český les. It makes for a worthwhile short stop on a longer hike through the area, particularly for those continuing on toward Čerchov or the border with Bavaria.

Who is this reserve suited for?

Skalky na Sádku is best suited to nature enthusiasts and hikers looking for a quiet, unhurried stop rather than travelers seeking large-scale attractions or built infrastructure. Given its small size, a visit doesn't take long, which makes it a natural addition to a longer route through the Český les — for example combined with a visit to Postřekov or nearby Klenčí pod Čerchovem. As a protected natural area, visitors should stick to the marked trail and avoid picking plants.

Frequently asked questions

Is the reserve fenced off or restricted? No, the area is freely accessible along the marked tourist trail that runs along its western boundary.

How long does a visit take? Given the small size of the protected area (under 4 hectares), walking through it takes only a short while, though visitors should factor in the approach time from Díly or Klenčí.

Can you cross-country ski here? Yes, the trail along the western boundary of the reserve is used as a cross-country skiing route in winter.

What is the main natural highlight? The combination of rocky outcrops and rubble forest growing on limestone substrate, along with the unusually rich understory flora it supports for this part of the Český les.