The Ždírecká ZOO in Ždírec–Myť showcases local wildlife through artistically crafted sculptures made of wood and metal. The public park complements this display with educational and play features and is free to enter. It is open daily year-round from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; check the opening hours before travelling. Alongside this particular attraction, church art, marked trails and natural features are other themes to explore during a stay in Ždírec.
Wildlife as sculpture and a learning experience
Visitors to the Ždírecká ZOO can try interactive educational activities, including a dendrophone and activities for identifying animals. These add a hands-on element to the sculptures: local wildlife is not only depicted artistically but also becomes the subject of playful learning activities. Visitors with a particular interest in animals will find a clear focus for planning their outing here.
Churches and their history
The Gothic Church of St. Wenceslas in Žďár stands on a prominent spit of land above the right bank of the Úslava, next to a burial ground. It was built in the first half of the 14th century under the influence of the building workshop of Pomuk Monastery. Particularly striking are the unique frescoes in the presbytery, dating from around 1350 and depicting scenes from the legend of St. Wenceslas. The construction date, location and subject of the paintings give a visit a tangible historical and architectural context.
Smederov is home to the Neoclassical Chapel of the Virgin Mary of Klatovy. It is divided into two parts, each with its own entrance. The first part contains a central image of the Virgin Mary of Klatovy, while the second houses a Nativity scene. The division is therefore apparent not only in the building’s structure: each area has its own furnishings and entrance.
Landscape and nature
Chejlava is part of the Buková hora–Chýlava Nature Park. Chejlava Forest has a primeval-forest-like character on lydite-bearing ground. Chejlava is part of the Buková hora–Chýlava Nature Park. Chejlava Forest has a primeval-forest-like character on lydite-bearing ground. Species-rich beech forests and scree forests are among its protected features. These details of the landscape offer a different focus from the churches and sculptures of the Ždírecká ZOO, drawing attention to the forest, the underlying geology and protected habitats.
Willows and alders line the immediate surroundings of Přešínský Creek. Further afield, alder stands and forest give way to a landscape dominated by mown meadows. The creek is home to a stable population of stone crayfish that reproduces regularly and successfully. The area is part of the Natura 2000 network and is designated a natural monument. Alongside the visible vegetation, the area’s specific connection to species protection and its conservation status are also key features.
Trails, rail connections and a recurring event
A blue-marked hiking trail runs through the municipality from Nepomuk via Kámen, Myť, Ždírec, Žďár, Smederov, Blovice and Vlčtejn to Nebílovy. The long sequence of named places helps with orientation along the route; check that the blue markings are up to date before setting out. Ždírec also has a railway station and a rail connection on the main Plzeň–České Budějovice line. Plan specific connections for your intended travel date.
Cycle Route No. 31 includes the Vlčice–Ždírec section. This is separate from a project that envisages continuing construction of a cycle link between Blovice and Ždírec. When planning, bear in mind that this cycle link is a planned project, not a confirmed completed connection.
The Silvestrovský běh is another recurring local event: it has been officially held annually in Ždírec since 1991 and attracts athletes from all over the Czech Republic. As details may vary from year to year, check the date for the relevant year before travelling to the race.
Discover more destinations: Kbel, Netunice, Mladý Smolivec, Soběkury, Hradec U Stoda, Kramolín U Nepomuka, Čmelíny, Střížovice
For the regional travel overview: Plzeň-Jih.
