Peklo u Nového Města nad Metují, Nature reserve in Nové Město nad Metují, Czech Republic

Peklo u Nového Města nad Metují is a protected nature reserve covering around 319 hectares within the Metuje River valley. The landscape features mixed forests, rocky outcrops along the slopes, and a rich diversity of plant and animal communities.

The area received official protected status in 1997 to safeguard its ecological systems. This designation resulted from sustained efforts over many decades to preserve the natural landscape.

Local legends give the valley its name: a headless horse, will-o'-the-wisps and a fiery barrel rolling downhill were reportedly seen here, and witches were said to gather for their rites. The barrel always struck a stone, burst, and a fiery rooster flew out.

The best time to visit is from spring through autumn when the trails are dry and easy to walk. Multiple marked routes into the reserve are accessible from Nové Město nad Metují on foot or by bike.

The valley's name, Peklo, means "Hell" in Czech, and legends tell of a headless horse, will-o'-the-wisps, and a fiery barrel rolling downhill that shattered on a rock and released a fiery rooster. Witches were said to gather here for their rituals.