Horní Lipová – Nature, Mountains and Railway History

Horní Lipová combines protected landscape, striking rocks and fascinating regional history. The Šerák–Keprník National Nature Reserve extends into the area of Horní Lipová, while the Muzeum Slezského Semmeringu presents railway-related topics in a historic station building. Here, you can enjoy nature experiences and cultural discoveries in a clearly defined mountain setting. The combination of the nature reserve, rock formations and railway history offers different perspectives on the area: in the mountain landscape, protected nature and distinctive forms take center stage, while the former signal box showcases technical cultural history.

Natural landscape between mountains and rocks

The national nature reserve includes the northern slopes of Šerák and Mračná hora as well as the summit of Obří skály. Obří skály form an almost one-kilometer-long rock wall measuring 10 to 16 meters in height. The Smrk mountain [Lipová-lázně], Šerák mountain and Smrek mountain are also located in the vicinity of Horní Lipová. Travná hora mountain is situated in the surrounding area of Horní Lipová.

A special botanical aspect of the area is represented by Sněženky Horní Lipová. The 0.2271-hectare floodplain area has been temporarily protected since 2007. Thousands of specimens of the endangered snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) have been recorded there. The protected character of this area complements the broader mountain and rock landscape with a very specific natural site.

Educational Trail and Animal Park

The Naučná stezka Johanna Schrotha educational trail has ten stations. The ten stations provide a clear sequence for exploration and connect the walk with individual thematic stopping points. If you are looking for an excursion with individual stations and changing themes, this number provides clear guidance for exploring the area. Another option for shared discoveries is the Faunapark in Lipová. The private animal park is open to visitors of all ages and interest groups. The animals include free-flying parrots as well as, among others, a tiger, lemurs, meerkats, macaques, iguanas, chameleons, kangaroos and ostriches. The free-flying parrots create a different focus from the tigers, lemurs, kangaroos and ostriches, while the iguanas and chameleons expand the animal collection with reptiles.

Railway History and Historical Traces

The Muzeum Slezského Semmeringu is located in the former signal box building of Horní Lipová railway station. The exhibition presents railway safety equipment, signaling devices, historical regulations and contemporary photographs. The Pramen císaře Josefa II. in the area also commemorates Emperor Joseph II's visit on September 1, 1779; the spring dates from 1822.

For cultural and historical excursions, the wider region around Horní Lipová extends to the Edelštejn ruins, Trzebieszowice Castle, the Nový Hrad ruins and Otmuchów - Zamek Castle. Edelštejn and Nový Hrad are ruins; Trzebieszowice and Otmuchów - Zamek are castles. Thus, the wider regional area offers different types of cultural and historical destinations for research.

Further Places for Trip Planning

If you would like to compare additional destinations besides Horní Lipová, you can also include Bělá Pod Pradědem, Zlate Hory, Žulová, Velká Kraš, Stará Červená Voda, Bobrovník, Uhelná and Písečná in your research.

For the broader travel overview: Jeseník District.