About this place
Vitčický les is a forest nature reserve on the western edge of the village of Vitčice, in the Prostějov district of the Czech Republic, within the Drahanská vysočina highlands. The protected area covers roughly 96 hectares of woodland and is managed by the Regional Authority of the Olomouc Region.
Why is this forest protected?
The reserve was established to preserve a forest stand whose composition closely matches the natural woodland communities typical of this vegetation zone. Valuable timber species growing here include European beech, small-leaved and large-leaved lime, ash, sycamore maple, elm, and rowan. The herb layer is equally notable, featuring species such as Solomon's seal (Polygonatum multiflorum) and lily of the valley. This combination of mature trees and a rich understory gives the forest both ecological and landscape value for the surrounding region.
What is there to see nearby?
At the western edge of the reserve, on a low hill called Malý kopec, stands a wooden lookout tower named Štátula, built in 2001. Visitors reach the viewing platform by climbing nineteen wooden ladder-style rungs, and from the top they can see across the Drahanská vysočina highlands toward the Chřiby range and the Vyškov area. The tower is a popular short destination for local hikers and cyclists looking for a quiet escape into nature away from crowds.
The village of Vitčice itself, bordering the forest, has a history stretching back to when it was the seat of a small manor estate — today only faint, barely visible traces of the old manor remain. The area therefore combines natural attractions with a layer of local history, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the Prostějov region.
How to get to Vitčický les?
The forest lies right next to the built-up area of Vitčice, which is easiest to reach by car or bicycle from nearby Prostějov. Marked trails run through the reserve for both hikers and cyclists, and the Štátula lookout tower serves as a natural landmark and destination — a short, easy route leads from the edge of the village to the base of Malý kopec.
Frequently asked questions
How large is the Vitčický les reserve? The protected area covers approximately 96 hectares of forest.
What can you see from the Štátula tower? The viewing platform offers views of the Drahanská vysočina highlands, the Chřiby range, and the Vyškov region.
What tree species grow in the reserve? The forest is dominated by beech, small-leaved and large-leaved lime, ash, sycamore maple, elm, and rowan.
Are there marked trails through the forest? Yes, marked trails for hikers and cyclists run through the reserve, including a route to the lookout tower.
Who manages the reserve? The area is managed by the Regional Authority of the Olomouc Region.
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