Žestov

Žestov is a small protected area with the status of a natural monument, located in the municipality of Hořice na Šumavě in the Český Krumlov District, South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic. Despite covering just 3.49 hectares, it preserves one of the more striking geomorphological features of the Český Krumlov Highlands.

Where exactly is Žestov?

The nature monument lies about 1.5 kilometers northwest of the hamlet of Slavkov. It occupies a forested hill of the same name, Žestov, which rises to 762 meters above sea level. The hill forms part of the Český Krumlov Highlands, specifically its Boletice Highlands sub-unit. The site is managed by the Nature Conservation Agency of the Czech Republic.

What makes this place stand out — the frost-riven block

The main geological draw of Žestov is its frost-riven block (Czech: mrazový srub), a rocky step on the hillside shaped by frost weathering and subsequent erosion. The rock formation at the summit reaches up to eight meters in height in places and runs in a northwest–southeast direction. This distinctive outcrop gives the site its rugged, dramatic character and draws visitors interested in geomorphology and field geology.

Why was the area protected?

The formal reason for protection is the preservation of a scree slope mixed forest growing on limestone bedrock — a site valuable from geological, geomorphological, and botanical perspectives. The Žestov nature monument was declared on November 15, 1990, with protection taking effect on December 14, 1990.

What plants grow here?

Among the specially protected plant species found within the reserve are the martagon lily (Lilium martagon), a striking pink-orange bulbous plant typical of fertile deciduous and mixed forests, and mountain arnica (Arnica montana), a yellow-flowered meadow species that has become increasingly rare across Central Europe as traditional, low-intensity meadow management has declined. The presence of both species points to a well-preserved habitat and the microclimatic diversity created by the terrain around the rocky outcrop.

Who is this destination for?

Žestov is a good pick for travelers looking for quiet, lesser-known corners of the Šumava foothills, away from the crowds found along the region's main hiking routes. It appeals to nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and landscape photographers who appreciate the site's small scale and intimate character. Because of its protected status, visitors should stick to marked paths and avoid disturbing the vegetation or rock formations.

Frequently asked questions

What is a frost-riven block? It is a geomorphological rock formation — a rocky step on a hillside — formed by frost weathering and erosion. At Žestov it reaches up to eight meters in height.

When was the Žestov reserve established? It was declared on November 15, 1990, with protection taking effect on December 14, 1990.

How large is the reserve? The protected area covers 3.49 hectares.

What protected plant species grow here? The martagon lily (Lilium martagon) and mountain arnica (Arnica montana).

Where exactly is Žestov relative to Hořice na Šumavě? The reserve lies within the municipality of Hořice na Šumavě, about 1.5 km northwest of the hamlet of Slavkov, on a hill 762 meters above sea level.