Záhornice: Ponds, Nature Trails and History

Záhornice lies in a valley on the banks of the Záhornický potok. The settlement of Poušť lies on the banks of Jakubský rybník and is surrounded by forests. This gives you different themes to explore during your stay: bodies of water and natural areas, paths through fields and forest, and archaeological traces and cultural history. Which ones you explore in greater depth depends on whether you want to focus on the landscape, wildlife or local history.

Landscape and protected areas

The cadastral area of Záhornice u Městce Králové is part of both the Dymokursko European Site of Community Importance and the Rožďalovické rybníky Special Protection Area for Birds. The two protected areas provide a broader frame of reference, encompassing the cadastral area, while the reed meander and forest spring are specific spots by Jakubský rybník. Waterbirds, including swans, nest at the reed meander. There is also a forest spring near Jakubský rybník; a small railway bridge separates it from the pond.

Paths between ponds, fields and forest

A blue-marked hiking route leads from the reed meander of Jakubský rybník to the settlement of Poušť. The destination is also on the banks of Jakubský rybník and is surrounded by forests. A nature trail goes around Pustý rybník and continues along the blue-marked route to Komárovský rybník. From a clearing, you can see the entire expanse of Pustý rybník, from one dam to the other. Check the signs and trail conditions on site before setting out on the blue-marked routes. This gives you different options to choose from when planning your visit: the route to the settlement of Poušť, or the nature trail and its continuation to Komárovský rybník.

Another walking option starts in the Závodeň district, on the field path between the houses, and leads through fields to a dense deciduous forest. You may see hares, roe deer and common buzzards there. The transition from open fields to forest sets this walk apart from the routes by the ponds. Another, unmarked path follows the former sugar factory railway track to an archaeological site on Vondrák. Check the route and trail conditions on site before setting out on this unmarked path. Another walking route passes through an avenue of old lime trees, which is designated a state natural monument.

Archaeology and local history

An archaeological fortified site stands on Vondrův kopec; Záhorská tvrz fortress once stood there. In the 18th century, widely known flax markets were held in Záhornice on Candlemas and St Martin’s Day. These markets are part of the town’s history. The annual Bluegrass Festival organized by the local association is a more recent event. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the specific event date.

Záhornice is also home to a Natura 2000 education centre. If you plan to visit, check in advance what visiting options are available. The town also has a branch church dedicated to Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist. Together with the archaeological fortified site and historic markets, it adds another dimension to the area’s history alongside its natural attractions.

Discover more destinations: Čilec, Dlouhopolsko, Libice Nad Cidlinou, Kostomlaty Nad Labem, Jíkev, Kostomlátky, Chrást, Stratov

For the broader travel overview: Okres Nymburk.