Jestřebí Nad Metují: Nature and Local History

Jestřebí Nad Metují can be explored through two themes: the protected landscape of Peklo and the area’s architectural and local history. When planning your trip, you can consider whether nature, trails, or historic sites should shape your stay. Peklo combines river valleys, rocks, and forests with trails for hikers and cyclists; the area’s history spans everything from its first written mention to historic handlooms and traditional log houses.

Peklo: Valley, Rocks, and Forest

The Peklo Nature Reserve protects the unregulated river valleys of the Metuje and Olešenka. Its landscape includes boulder fields, scree slopes, and rock faces. The valley is deep, with numerous signs of weathering on its rocky outcrops. Part of the area was designated a nature reserve in 1997, covering just under 320 hectares, in particular to protect numerous animal and insect species. Peklo in Jestřebí is also designated as a Site of Community Importance in the Natura 2000 network.

The forests resemble natural forests that have been little affected by human activity. Beech and scree forests are especially prominent; fir, elm, lily, and mezereon are also found here. Peklo is therefore notable for both its river valleys and the variety of its landscape and forest features. If nature is a factor in choosing your destination, you’ll find specific points of interest here, from the protected landscape to the composition of the forests.

Hiking and Cycling Trails

An old stone-built path runs along the slope of Peklo, offering views of the local forests. Numerous hiking and cycling trails also pass through Peklo. The stone path is a specific feature of the landscape; the network of routes offers more ways to explore on foot or by bike. When planning your trip, you can decide whether you’re most interested in the old path and its forest views, or in Peklo as an area with a variety of hiking and cycling trails.

Buildings and History

Bartoňova útulna is an important historic building. Figures and other devil-themed motifs shape its design. It also serves devil-inspired specialties; the exact selection may vary. The building’s design and its culinary offerings each provide a different point of interest: one can be seen in the building itself, while the other relates to the specialties served there.

The area’s history also has several tangible dates and details. Jestřebí was first mentioned in writing in 1459. Around 1890, about 35 handlooms were in operation there. These two facts describe different aspects of the past: the area’s earliest written mention and a craft practiced toward the end of the 19th century. The town center is also home to several traditional log houses, which provide an architectural link to local history.

The history of a country inn in the former Pekelec mill dates back to 1912. This historical detail adds the mill’s use as an excursion destination to the area’s local and architectural history. Together, these offer several points of interest for a visit: the landscape of Peklo, historic buildings, and the recorded dates that mark local history.

Paddling on the Metuje

Specific sections are also described for a paddling trip. The Bražec–Peklo stretch is rated WW I up to Peklo; from Peklo to Nové Město nad Metují, the rating is WW II. The second section is suitable for experienced paddlers. The route includes rapids and cascades. When comparing the options, different details matter: the trails through Peklo are mainly about hiking and cycling routes and forest views, while paddling is described in terms of the ratings for the two sections and the stated suitability for experienced paddlers.

Discover more destinations: Jetřichov, Vysoká Srbská, Dolany U Jaromere, Červený Kostelec, Zdonov, Nové Mesto Nad Metují, Nový Ples, Jasenná.

For the broader travel overview: Okres Náchod.