Nature & Scenic in Ostrava

Rising like a forested scar on Ostrava’s landscape, Heap Ema—also known as Trojice Hill—stands as the city’s highest point at roughly 315 meters above sea level. This artificial cone was once a landfill for mining debris, featuring fragments of coal that sometimes ignite spontaneously inside. Surrounded by woods, it offers panoramic views of Ostrava, the surrounding towns, the Beskydy and Jeseníky mountain ranges, and even reaches into Poland. A favorite spot for hikers and curious travelers alike, Heap Ema is a testament to Ostrava’s layered industrial past and natural beauty.

Nestled near the town of Polanka nad Odrou in Ostrava, Polanská niva is a secret haven wrapped in the embrace of nature. This protected floodplain forest reveals a rare and enchanting example of riparian woodland, complete with winding river channels, abandoned meanders, and lush greenery. Managed by AOPK ČR Správa CHKO Poodří, it’s a living testament to the quiet resilience of floodplain ecosystems, inviting curious explorers to wander through its tranquil, yet vibrant, natural tapestry.

Landek Hill is a long, forested ridge that extends over Ostrava’s Silesian districts, rising from the confluence of the Odra and Ostravice rivers. Celebrated worldwide for its geological, archaeological, and industrial significance, it’s often compared to legendary Czech peaks like Říp or Oreb. Covering 85.7 hectares, this protected natural treasure offers a labyrinth of trails, caves, and historical sites, inviting explorers to uncover its ancient secrets amid lush woods and sweeping vistas.

Nestled in the northeastern part of Ostrava, the Heřmanický rybník is a protected natural site, part of the Natura 2000 network, comprising five interconnected ponds. This ecological treasure features reed beds, nutrient-rich stagnant waters, and species-rich wet meadows, creating a haven for over 250 bird species, including protected species like the bittern and kingfisher. The area, also serving as a saline mine water reservoir since 1972, is rich in minerals such as boron and iodine, offering a unique natural experience. Recognized as one of the Czech Republic’s most important birdwatching locations, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and ornithologists.

In Ostrava, the Kunčický bludný balvan commands attention as the largest known glacial erratic in the Czech Republic, a testament to the icy forces that shaped the region during the last Ice Age. Believed to have traveled from northern Europe, this massive boulder is now protected as a natural monument, offering visitors a tangible connection to the ancient glaciers that once blanketed much of Europe.

Spanning 30 hectares, Komenského Sady offers a verdant retreat adorned with towering poplars and scenic riverbank vistas. This elegant park provides a serene setting for leisurely strolls and quiet reflection, making it an ideal escape for those seeking tranquility amidst Ostrava’s urban landscape.

Nestled within Ostrava’s landscape, Landek Park beckons visitors into a world where the echoes of industrial labor still resonate. This site transforms the history of mining into an immersive journey, revealing the rugged beauty and gritty heritage of the region’s industrial past. Walking through its grounds, one can feel the weight of history beneath their feet, as if the very earth tells stories of toil and transformation.