Žďár nad Orlicí – Discover River Floodplains and Nature

Žďár nad Orlicí is especially suited to travelers who want to plan their stay around river landscapes, nature conservation, and outdoor activities. The cadastral area lies in the floodplain landscape of the Tichá Orlice and the Divoká Orlice. Protected areas, cycling routes, and the frequent use of the Orlice waterways for water sports give you several ways to incorporate nature, exercise, and local culture into your travel plans.

River Floodplains and Protected Landscapes

The protected Přírodní park Orlice is located within the municipality. It was established in 1996 along the Divoká Orlice and the Tichá Orlice, as well as where they converge to form the Orlice. It protects rare river and floodplain ecosystems and the distinctive landscape character of the Orlice basin. The Přírodní památka Orlice, which also includes the cadastral area of Žďár nad Orlicí, is a separate protected area. Its protected habitats include floodplain forests, wetlands, river reeds, oxbow lakes, pools, and various types of meadows.

The wildlife of Přírodní park Orlice is diverse and includes various bird communities as well as the Eurasian otter. The area is also designated as a Natura 2000 site of European importance. This means that, alongside the rivers, the floodplain’s range of habitats is a central part of the area’s natural environment.

Cycling, Water Sports, and Trails

Three cycling routes are worth considering when planning your trips. Cycle route 4161 between Podlesí and Moravsko passes through the municipality; cycle route 4163 between Borohrádek and Nová Ves also runs through it. For both numbered routes, check the current signage and surface conditions before setting out. Another option is the 62-kilometer route “Přes soutok Tiché a Divoké Orlice k poutnímu místu Homole.” The 62-kilometer route passes through Žďár nad Orlicí and is rated as moderately difficult. You should also check current conditions before taking this longer route.

The Orlice waterways are frequently used for water sports in the area. Conditions and providers may vary, so check the current situation before planning a specific activity. Outside the municipality, paved footpaths provide access to the surrounding countryside. These paths lie outside the municipal area and complement the cycling and water sports options with another way to explore the surrounding landscape.

Getting There and Finding Your Way

The single-track, electrified railway line 026 between Choceň and Týniště nad Orlicí crosses the municipality of Žďár nad Orlicí. There is a railway stop at the western end of the village. Check the current timetable before traveling. Its location at the western end of the village is also a useful reference point when familiarizing yourself with local transport infrastructure.

Local History and Culture

Žďár nad Orlicí was first mentioned in writing in 1342. The place name also has linguistic-historical significance: it derives from the Czech word “žďářit,” meaning to clear land by cutting down and burning the forest. The dated mention and the meaning of the name offer two different starting points for exploring the local history.

Local cultural heritage includes a cross listed as a monument of local significance. Its current condition should be checked on site. The Mošnův divadelní spolek regularly stages comedies at Hostinec Pod Kaštany. If seeing a performance is important to your trip, check locally for current show dates.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Světlá, Sněžné, Rohenice, Javornice, Nová Ves U Albrechtic, Krchleby U Kostelce Nad Orlicí, Kounov U Dobrusky, Rícky V Orlických Horách

Back to the main travel overview: Okres Rychnov Nad Kněžnou.