Roštýnská obora, Nature reserve near Doupě, Czech Republic
Roštýnská obora is a nature reserve declared in 1977 around Roštejn Castle, 8 km north of Telč between Doupě and Růžená. It protects beech-dominated forests at 620–720 m, with granite outcrops and block fields east of the castle, including the ledge called Čertovy peřiny.
This hunting ground was established in the late 1500s, with its first recorded mention appearing in a 1580 land registry document. The early documentation shows the long tradition of organized hunting and animal management at this location.
The educational trail with eleven information panels describes hunting traditions and animal care practices that shaped this land. Visitors learn about falconry and dog training methods that remain connected to the reserve's purpose.
Access is through the western gate, with parking available at Roštejn Castle or along the road to Doupě village. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain and possible wildlife encounters.
The granite bedrock beneath the reserve is a fine-grained biotite-muscovite granite, sometimes called the Mrákotín type. On boulders, weathering-resistant quartz fills the cracks and stands out above the stone surface. East of the castle, a rock outcrop with bench-like jointing is known as "Čertovy peřiny" (Devil's Featherbeds).
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