EN > Trip tips > Blšany Hillock

Blšanský Chlum (Blšany Hillock) is a former military area, which was used by the army up until 1989 for training purposes. This neo-volcanic knob, shaped like an irregular mushroom, belongs to the southwestern promontory of the Central Bohemian Uplands.

Thanks to the NET4GAS Closer to Nature programme, and within the context of a project named "Natura in Green - Management of Europe's Special Areas of Conservation Influenced by Former Military Activities", the Beleco Society has been working in the area since 2012 to protect plants and animals that are, for the most part, on red lists of endangered species. Owing in particular to its unique character and the presence of rare plant and animal species, Blšany Hillock was made one of Europe’s special areas of conservation (as part of Natura 2000).

Another site on which the project "Natura in Green" is being implemented is Načeratice Hill near Znojmo.

From the highest point of Blšany Hillock (293 m above sea level), one has a gorgeous view of the town of Louny, but also of the Central Bohemian Uplands, the Ore Mountains, and the ruins of Hazmburk Castle. Like the other peaks of the Central Bohemian Uplands, Blšany Hillock is of volcanic origin. The cleft appearance of the hill may be attributed to mining activities, which were still on-going at the beginning of the last century. Today, the site is as peaceful as can be, and ideal for walks with the entire family.