49 🇨🇿 | In search of memorable trees in Popov

There is only one place in the Ore Mountains where trees grow that look like they are from another planet and could even feature in Avatar. These are the lime trees on Popov.

We set off from the crossroads between Hluboký and Horní Žďár. This is where the road leading up to Popov begins. We walk through the forest and meadows, down a deep valley to the lower part of what used to be Popov. Here you will find many ruins of the former village, which must have been breathtaking on the steep hill. It culminates in a rocky area with a great view, a chapel, and many memorable trees.

Don't rush up the hill – enjoy every step and, above all, the trees: birches and ash trees, which have grown to unusual sizes and spread here in the lee. We will walk past the repaired chapel to the cross, which offers a magnificent view of Ostrov and the surrounding area. Below the cross is the lower Popovská linden tree and about 400 meters higher up is perhaps the most remarkable tree – the upper Popovská linden tree. Stop here, enter the tree, and let yourself be enchanted by the "Evy of the Ore Mountains." Houses used to stand everywhere up to this linden tree. Today, unfortunately, nothing remains of Popov except bushes and ruins. Nevertheless, it is a powerful place that has something to say.

On the way back, turn left at the chapel and head downhill to the paved road in Horní Žďár, where you turn right towards the starting point.