Trčkov

Trčkov is a national nature reserve on the north-eastern slope of Velká Deštná, the highest peak of the Orlické Mountains, near the municipality of Orlické Záhoří in the Rychnov nad Kněžnou district of the Czech Republic. The reserve was established on 1 July 1982 and covers roughly 65 hectares.

What makes this reserve worth protecting?

The main reason for the reserve's protection is a surviving fragment of primeval-like mountain forest made up of native tree species that once characterized the Orlické Mountains before large-scale human intervention. It stands as one of the best-preserved remnants of the original forest cover in this mountain range.

What kind of forest grows here?

The mixed stand is dominated by Norway spruce, silver fir, European beech and sycamore maple. Mountain spruce, beech, maple and still-vigorous fir prevail throughout the reserve — species typical of natural montane forests in Central Europe before spruce monocultures became widespread. Some of the trees are estimated to be around 150 years old, making this one of the oldest surviving forest stands in the region.

Can visitors enter the reserve?

The Trčkov reserve is closed to the public. Restricting access protects the fragile, near-natural ecosystem from human pressure and allows the forest to develop without disturbance — an approach considered essential for preserving its unique character.

Who manages the reserve?

The area is administered by the Nature and Landscape Protection Agency of the Czech Republic (AOPK ČR), specifically through the Orlické hory Protected Landscape Area administration. This body is responsible for monitoring the forest's condition and enforcing the no-entry rule.

Where exactly is Trčkov located?

The reserve lies in the Orlické Mountains near the Czech-Polish border, close to the village of Orlické Záhoří. It borders the slope of Mount Doupnatá (928 m), and its position on high mountain slopes helps maintain the specific microclimate in which these old-growth stands have survived harsh mountain conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a hiking trail through the Trčkov reserve? No — the reserve itself is closed to tourist traffic, since nature protection takes priority over public access here.

Which tree species dominate the reserve? Mainly Norway spruce, silver fir, European beech and sycamore maple, forming a natural mixed mountain forest.

Since when has the area been protected? The reserve was declared on 1 July 1982.

How large is the reserve? Trčkov covers approximately 65 hectares.

Where is the reserve located relative to nearby settlements? It lies on the slope of Velká Deštná in the Orlické Mountains, near the municipality of Orlické Záhoří in the Rychnov nad Kněžnou district.