Upolínová louka pod Křížky

Upolínová louka pod Křížky is a small but ecologically significant nature reserve tucked into the forests of the Slavkov Forest, right next to the village of Prameny in the Cheb district of the Karlovy Vary Region. Declared a national nature monument in 1990, it protects an 18-hectare wet meadow that preserves a rare complex of moisture-loving plant communities typical of this part of Bohemia.

What makes this meadow special?

The reserve takes its name from the globeflower (Trollius europaeus, called "upolín" in Czech), a plant with round, bright yellow blossoms that grows here in unusually large numbers. It is this species that draws most visitors in spring, when the meadow turns into a dense carpet of yellow flowers. Alongside the globeflower, the site also shelters rare and endangered species, including the bog willow, a plant once thought nearly extinct in the Czech Republic until it reappeared here in 1990.

Which animals live in the area?

The waterlogged terrain also supports a rich population of reptiles and amphibians. Visitors may spot the common European adder, the smooth snake, the slow worm, the viviparous lizard, and the alpine newt in and around the meadow. The presence of so many protected species is a strong indicator of how well this small ecosystem has been preserved.

How can the reserve be visited?

Because the habitat is fragile, access is limited to a wooden boardwalk that crosses the wettest parts of the meadow and leads to a viewpoint overlooking the vegetation. This setup lets visitors observe the site's plant life without stepping directly onto the sensitive ground, balancing nature tourism with strict conservation needs.

When is the best time to visit?

The reserve is most popular in early spring, when the globeflowers bloom and the meadow is at its most striking. Outside the flowering season, the site still rewards a visit thanks to its quiet setting and proximity to other natural attractions of the Slavkov Forest.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Upolínová louka pod Křížky located? Near the village of Prameny, in the Cheb district of the Karlovy Vary Region, within the Slavkov Forest.

How large is the protected area? The reserve covers approximately 18 hectares.

What is there to see on site? Blooming globeflowers (best seen in early spring), rare wetland plant species, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians, all viewable from a wooden boardwalk leading to a lookout point.

Can visitors walk directly onto the meadow? No — to protect the habitat, the site can only be explored from the designated boardwalk and viewpoint.