Milovice Observation Post

For more than 80 years, the military zone Milovice-Mladá was off limits to the public. Due to its specific use, a unique territory of stable communities of plants and animals came into being. The rarest species among them all is the Alcon Large Blue, which crucially depends on the occurrence of Cross-Leaved Gentian (and of ant hills) for its reproduction.

In recognition of its unique character, the entire site was elevated to a Site of Community Importance within the Natura 2000 network. Its very uniqueness requires a very peculiar kind of care - essentially, the previous activities of the army have to be 'simulated'. This is why heavy military machinery continues to roll through this protected area and Site of Community Importance.

In 2007, the NET4GAS Closer to Nature programme made it possible to build an educational trail that familiarises visitors with the history of this military training ground, with its biggest natural treasures, and with the above-described non-standard way of its stewardship.

place:Milovice, District of Nymburk, Central Bohemian Region

Way there:The first panel on the educational trail, and a covered resting area, are installed by the side of the road from Milovice to Lipník. In this spot, the blue hiking trail runs along the road. GPS: N 50°15.11303', E 14°53.23482'

Practical information: