Discover Stárkov: Vysoký kámen, Nature and Culture

A blue-marked hiking trail leads from the market square in Stárkov to Vysoký kámen. There, a massive rock crevice stretches for more than 100 meters and is more than 20 meters deep. A popular tourist lookout point is located on the southwestern edge of the inner coastal structure of the Polická Cretaceous Basin. Local legends about hidden treasures and an underground city of dwarfs explain the popular name “Trpasličí rokle” for the crevice. The geological setting and local folklore emphasize different aspects: the Polická Cretaceous Basin places the crevice within its landscape, while the legends of treasures and a city of dwarfs belong to the local storytelling tradition.

Protected Landscape Around Stárkov

Stárkov lies within the Broumovsko Protected Landscape Area. Its characteristic natural areas include the Stárkovské bučiny, a site of community importance in Zone II of the Broumovsko Protected Landscape Area. The Stárkovské bučiny comprise a unique complex of flower-rich beech forests, along with scree forests and meadows in some places. Protected landscapes, forests, and open areas are therefore among the defining natural features around Stárkov.

The waterways are also associated with a designated protected area: the Dřevíč, also known as Olšavka, and Jívka streams belong to the Metuje and Dřevíč site of community importance. This area was designated to protect the brook lamprey. Dřevíč and Olšavka are two names for the same stream. In addition, a network of cycle paths and roads connects Stárkov with the surrounding natural destinations and towns. Alongside the forests and meadows, protected streams are therefore also part of the town’s natural environment.

Culture Between the Rectory and the Chapel

Stárkov also has a tangible historical profile. The Stárkov rectory was rebuilt in its present form in 1660. It is considered the oldest secular building in eastern Bohemia. Its present appearance thus dates back to the 1660 reconstruction.

The Stations of the Cross ends at the Baroque Chapel of the Fourteen Holy Helpers. For visitors who want to combine nature experiences with the town’s religious and historical culture, this route adds a cultural point of interest to the landscape destinations. Another vivid attraction is the Mlýn Dřevíček mill. There, the exemplary operation of the complete original mill equipment is demonstrated; during the tour, visitors can try out some of the mill work themselves. The tour therefore combines a demonstration of the historic equipment with practical hands-on activity. The natural formation and historic technology stand alongside each other as different types of experiences, each with its own character.

Experiences at Different Paces

At Vysoký kámen, the striking rock crevice and lookout point take center stage, while the chapel, rectory, and mill offer historical perspectives on Stárkov. In September, the “Katovská třicítka” march is also scheduled to take place in Stárkov. The specific event year remains open, but the seasonal date adds a sporting activity to the nature and cultural attractions.

More Destinations in This Selection

More destinations in this selection are Chvalkovice V Cechách, Suchý Důl, Velichovky, Žďár Nad Metují, Zlic, Rasošky, Vlkov and Provodov-Šonov.

For the higher-level travel overview: Náchod District.