Cikháj: Nature and history between Žákova hora and Tisůvka

Cikháj lies in the heart of the Žďárské vrchy Protected Landscape Area, between Žákova hora and Tisůvka. This location connects two named places with nature and history themes that you can explore at various sites. Tisůvka is a peak and natural monument; Žákova hora is known for its protected mixed-forest ecosystems, ancient forest history, and nature trail. The “Do pralesa” hiking route also begins in Cikháj.

Landscape and nature conservation

Tisůvka is an 800-metre-high peak and natural monument above Cikháj. At Žákova hora, the nature reserve protects natural mixed-forest ecosystems characteristic of the higher elevations of the Žďárské vrchy. The two landmarks therefore have different features: Tisůvka is notable for its elevation and natural monument status, while Žákova hora is known for its protected forest habitat. The Žďárské vrchy Protected Landscape Area is 93 percent forested. This figure describes the protected landscape area as a whole; the mixed-forest ecosystems are the protected feature of the Žákova hora Nature Reserve. To understand the landscape, it is therefore useful to distinguish between the extensive forest landscape and the specific habitat within the nature reserve.

Conservation history, nature trail, and spring

The first conservation decree for Žákova hora was issued on 31 December 1933. This date provides a specific historical reference point in the area’s conservation history. The Žákova hora nature trail provides information about the nature and history of the ancient forest on Žákova hora, follows partisan trails, and passes one of the sources of the Svratka River. Its themes therefore go beyond a simple description of nature: forest, ancient forest history, partisan trails, and a spring are among its main topics. Stříbrná studánka, considered a source of the Svratka River, is also located near Žákova hora. If you are interested in nature and history, the trail offers a thematic way to explore the area; the named spring adds another specific natural feature to help orient you.

“Do pralesa” hiking route

The “Do pralesa” hiking route is 13 kilometres long and leads through the Žďárské vrchy Protected Landscape Area. It starts in Cikháj at a trailhead with a spacious car park. A 24-tonne stone partisan monument stands near the start. The stated distance makes “Do pralesa” a clearly defined hiking destination; the car park at the trailhead and the monument nearby provide specific landmarks. This makes it easy to include the route as a separate activity when planning your trip. To choose between the two options, consider what you are looking for: “Do pralesa” is identified as a hiking route by its 13-kilometre length, while the nature trail brings together nature and history themes on Žákova hora. Both offer historical connections in different ways: through the partisan trails on the nature trail and the stone monument near the start of the route.

Discover more destinations: Štěpánov Nad Svratkou, Zvole, Jabloňov, Dvořiště, Koroužné, Zadní Zhořec, Rožná, Křoví.

For the broader travel overview: Žďár nad Sázavou District.