A deep, rocky river bend carved by the Ohře river forms this remarkable valley, the last preserved example of the river's original character along its middle course. Steep slopes, dry heathlands and rare reptiles make it one of the more surprising natural spots near Kadaň.

The valley's terrain is dramatic for the region - rocky outcrops rise above the river, scree slopes cover the hillsides, and patches of heather bloom purple in late summer. Along the riverbanks, ash-alder floodplain forests create a lush, shaded contrast to the sun-baked rocky slopes above. Spring and early summer bring blooming heathlands and active birdlife, while autumn colors the floodplain woods in gold and rust. It's a quiet place, ideal for those who enjoy watching wildlife as much as walking.

How to get there

• Kadaň - follow the nature trail Želinský meandr along the left riverbank, easy to moderate difficulty
• Alternative approach from Rokle or Tušimice villages

Practical information

• Fishing banned on the left bank below the Želina weir from May to June to protect nesting birds
• Rock climbing restricted at Tušimice Rocks from January to July
• Motorized boats prohibited on the river
• Protected area and Natura 2000 site with restricted disturbance of habitats

The valley shelters an isolated northwestern population of the dice snake, along with hundreds of critically endangered green lizards basking on its sunlit rocks - a rare sight this far north.