Žďár between a Nature Monument and Sandstone Landscape

Žďár combines nature, history and trails into a destination with several distinct facets. The V dubech Nature Monument focuses on wetland habitats and specially protected plant species, while the Příhrazské skály, with sandstone, 178 rock towers and distinctive rock formations, present a different landscape. Between marshy meadows, spring areas, wet alder forests and sandstone formations, this creates a clear transition between different landscape areas.

Nature Monument and Sandstone Rocks

The V dubech Nature Monument is located in the cadastral area of Žehrov in the municipality of Žďár. It protects marshy hay meadows, spring areas and wet alder forests containing specially protected plant species. Open wetland areas, water-adjacent zones and wet woodland areas together shape the natural environment. This makes V dubech a clear contrast to the stone formations of the Příhrazské skály.

The rock city area of the Příhrazské skály consists of 178 rock towers and edge massifs. The sandstone formations attract climbers; the distinctive rocks include Kobylí hlava. The large number of rock towers and edge massifs defines the area just as much as the sandstone material itself. For visitors interested in rock landscapes, this represents a different focus from the V dubech wetland area.

Trails through Žďár

The Zlatá stezka Českého ráje long-distance hiking trail passes through Žďár. The landscape is suitable for cycling. Hiking and cycling are therefore among the different ways to actively experience the village and its surroundings.

A hiking and cycling excursion route leads through the Žehrovka Valley via Skokovy and Olešnice to Věžický rybník and Vidlák. The route connects several specific waypoints with water and the valley landscape. Skokovy and Olešnice serve as the first points of orientation, after which the route continues through the Žehrovka Valley to Věžický rybník and Vidlák. This makes it possible to plan the excursion around various landscape features.

Mills and Local History

The route through the Žehrovka Valley passes several mills. These include Pleskotský mlýn, considered the best-known mill on this route. The route thus connects the valley not only with nature but also with a theme of cultural history. Those who choose the trail for its landscape will also encounter historic buildings along this section.

Historically, Žďár was primarily an agricultural community. Because of its avenue lined with linden trees, the village was often known by the nickname “Žďár lipový”. Construction of the chapel in Žďár began on June 2, 1903; it was completed in July 1904. The beginnings of settlement in this region date back to the medieval colonization of the 13th century. The local history therefore extends from medieval colonization through its agricultural character to the chapel’s specific construction years.

Other Places

Brodce, Přepeře, Bakov Nad Jizerou, Dlouhá Lhota, Charvatce, Strašnov, Chotětov and Niměřice.

For the higher-level travel overview: Mladá Boleslav District.