Skalky u Přehrady

Skalky u Přehrady is a small but ecologically significant rocky nature reserve located just behind the dam wall of the Brno Reservoir (Brněnská přehrada), within the city districts of Bystrc and Kníničky. The protected area consists of two separate sections of steep, rocky slopes along the breakthrough valley of the Svratka River, at the northernmost edge of the Kohoutovická Plateau. Covering just 1.34 hectares, the site was granted protected status in 1989.

Why is this place protected?

The reserve was established to safeguard a remarkable community of thermophilic (heat-loving) vegetation growing directly on the exposed rock, together with a rich variety of lichens. The rocky terrain supports valuable rock-steppe plant communities that include several rare species, such as feather grass (a type of prairie grass with distinctive long, feathery awns), the large-flowered pasque flower, and spurge-laurel. Their presence points to an unusually dry and sun-exposed microclimate on the south-facing rock faces.

What wildlife lives here?

The sunniest, northern part of the reserve is also a valuable site for insect life. It is home to heat-loving butterflies such as the blackthorn hairstreak (Satyrium spini) and the Chapman's blue (Scolitantides orion), both tied closely to dry, rocky habitats. Among the vertebrates found here are the sand lizard, the smooth snake (a harmless, non-venomous species despite its intimidating look), and birds typical of warm, open shrubland such as the wryneck and the red-backed shrike.

How do you get to Skalky u Přehrady?

A yellow-marked hiking trail runs directly through the Svratka valley alongside the reserve, starting near the junction by the Bystrc Zoo tram stop. This makes the site easy to reach for both Brno residents and visitors already planning a trip to the nearby zoo or the Brno Reservoir. Walking along the trail offers a striking contrast between the calm surface of the reservoir and the steep, rocky slopes rising above the valley.

What should you know before visiting?

Despite its small size, the reserve is a good example of how a unique ecosystem can survive right on the doorstep of a large city. As a protected area, it deserves careful treatment: visitors are encouraged to stay on the marked trail rather than climbing onto the rocks themselves, in order to avoid damaging the fragile rock vegetation or disturbing the small fauna that lives there. Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, when the pasque flowers and other steppe plants are in bloom and insect activity is at its peak.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Skalky u Přehrady located? The reserve lies in the Bystrc and Kníničky districts of Brno, directly behind the Brno Reservoir dam wall, at an elevation of 215–250 metres above sea level.

Can visitors climb onto the rocks? The area is protected for its rare plants and insects, so it's best to stick to the marked trail rather than walking directly onto the rocky sections of the reserve.

How do you reach the site by public transport? The easiest way is by tram to the Zoo Bystrc stop, from where the yellow-marked trail leads through the Svratka valley toward the reserve.

What is the main natural attraction here? The thermophilic steppe vegetation and rare butterfly species that have found a unique refuge on the rocky slopes right at the edge of a major city.