Kněžičky’s natural profile includes bird and wetland habitats, thermophilous oak forests and steppe vegetation. It also features a municipal water reservoir used for swimming and fishing, as well as traditional pilgrimages that are still celebrated. When choosing where to stay, you can weigh these different reasons for visiting: nature areas, water activities or a cultural event. At the reservoir, check seasonal conditions and local rules; pilgrimage dates may vary.

Birdlife and oak forest

The Žehuňský rybník–Obora Kněžičky Bird Protection Area safeguards the habitats of the little bittern (Ixobrychus minutus) and the spotted crake (Porzana porzana). Between 1996 and 2002, the area was significant as a breeding site for 131 bird species. It is also a migration area for waterbirds and birds of prey. The figure for breeding species and the area’s importance as a migration site describe two distinct aspects of its birdlife.

Kněžičky National Nature Reserve covers 89 ha and protects thermophilous oak forests with a considerable proportion of old trees compared with other areas. Thermophilous steppe and forest-steppe communities are also found there. Thus, in addition to bird habitats, old trees and thermophilous plant communities are part of Kněžičky’s natural profile. The reserve can be accessed only via public and forest paths. Stay on these paths during your visit and observe the applicable nature conservation rules.

Wetlands and water

Kopičácký rybník National Natural Monument is located within the cadastral area of the municipality of Kněžičky. Its wetland habitats include bog and purple moor-grass meadows, reed beds and aquatic communities. Populations of rare and endangered plants and animals are found there, in particular Sesleria uliginosa, Potamogeton gramineus and Rana ridibunda. The protected area therefore represents a different natural environment from the thermophilous oak forests: here, wetlands and aquatic communities define the landscape.

The municipal water reservoir has an area of 3,700 m² and is used for swimming and fishing. If you plan either activity, check seasonal conditions and local rules beforehand. This lets you plan your time at the reservoir around the uses specifically mentioned, without equating swimming and fishing with the protected habitats of the nature areas.

Obora Kněžičky and local traditions

Obora Kněžičky includes a group of buildings from the former royal game preserve. It is located amid an enclosed woodland complex covering 850 hectares. Woodland ponds that serve as retention basins have also been restored in the preserve. This area therefore brings together a historical context and a practical function for its woodland waters.

Traditional pilgrimages are still celebrated in Kněžičky. If you would like to plan your trip around one of these celebrations, check the specific dates, as they may vary. Dr. Pio Kinský dal Borgo operates Hotel Obora with a restaurant in the Obora Kněžičky grounds. The hotel is therefore a specific accommodation option to consider when searching in Kněžičky; the nature areas, reservoir and pilgrimage tradition offer different focal points for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Choťánky, Žitovlice, Poušť, Budiměřice, Opolany, Krchleby, Dlouhopolsko, Milovice

For the broader travel overview: Okres Nymburk.