Starý Hirštejn, Nature reserve near Domažlice, Czech Republic.

Starý Hirštejn is a 37.15-hectare nature reserve around a conical hill rising to 878 metres, with rocky outcrops, frost-riven crags, debris fields and a small stone sea on its summit. Its mixed submontane beech forest grows on shallow podzolic soils over Proterozoic cordierite gneiss.

A castle stood here in the 13th century, serving as a fortified strongpoint in the region. The area became an officially protected nature reserve in 1968 to safeguard its important ecosystems.

The ruins of a medieval castle shape the landscape and mark its former importance as a point controlling trade routes. Walking through the area, visitors encounter these remains while exploring the natural surroundings.

The reserve is accessible by hiking trails that require sturdy footwear and proper preparation due to the mountainous and remote terrain. Expect variable ground conditions, particularly in the wet meadow areas.

The reserve straddles the main European watershed: its northeastern part drains via the Pivoňka, Černý potok, Radbuza, Berounka, Vltava and Labe to the North Sea, while the southwestern part drains via the Nemanický potok, Naab and Danube to the Black Sea.