About this place
U Hájů is a small but ecologically valuable nature reserve in Prague's Stodůlky district, tucked into a shallow valley between the former Háje homestead and the railway embankment of the Buštěhrad line, locally nicknamed the "Prague Semmering". The site was declared a protected natural monument in 1982 and covers an area of 6.6 hectares. Despite sitting within the boundaries of a large city, U Hájů has kept the feel of a wild, damp corner where the noise of Prague fades away.
Why is this place protected?
The reserve was established to protect wetland meadows and springs fed by calcium-rich water, home to rare and endangered plant and animal species. The area lies at an elevation of 340–360 meters, and its slopes are built from Middle Ordovician shales and quartzites roughly 470 million years old. The valley floor, in contrast, is filled with much younger stream sediments that created ideal conditions for wetland vegetation to thrive.
What can visitors see in the reserve?
The most valuable part of U Hájů is the meadow on the northeastern slope of the valley, where several calcareous springs emerge from the ground. Around three springs and a small pond, the site's most characteristic wetland vegetation develops. Rare species recorded here include marsh orchids, sundew, adder's-tongue fern, and narrow-leaved cottongrass. Amphibians also find refuge in the damp habitat, including the common toad and brown frogs.
How to get to U Hájů?
The reserve lies within Stodůlky, part of Prague's Praha 13 district, close to the former Háje homestead. It is an easily reachable destination for a walk for residents of the surrounding housing estates, and a good example of how varied nature can be even within the boundaries of a major city.
Frequently asked questions
When was U Hájů placed under protection? The site was designated a natural monument in 1982.
How large is the reserve? U Hájů covers 6.6 hectares.
What is the main natural value of this place? Wetland meadows and calcareous springs that support rare plants, such as marsh orchids and sundew, as well as amphibians like the common toad and brown frogs.
Where exactly is U Hájů located? In Prague's Stodůlky district, in a shallow valley between the former Háje homestead and the railway embankment known as the Prague Semmering.
What rock formations make up the valley? The slopes consist of Middle Ordovician shales and quartzites around 470 million years old, while the valley floor holds younger stream sediments.
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