On the trail of the Cieszynianka spring flower and more: a family nature walk through Cieszyn’s nature reserves

Can true natural treasures be found in the middle of a city? In Cieszyn, the answer is yes. During the educational family walk 'Tracking the Cieszyn spring flower and more…', residents have the opportunity to discover remarkable natural sites located just steps away from everyday urban life.

The walk leads participants through two unique nature reserves: Lasek Miejski nad Olzą and Lasek Miejski nad Puńcówką. Although relatively small, these protected areas preserve fragments of natural deciduous forests and a rich flora characteristic of the Cieszyn Foothills — representing a lasting investment in biodiversity conservation within an urban setting.

One of the main 'heroes' of the walk is the Cieszyn spring flower (Hacquetia epipactis) – a rare and remarkable plant that has made the region well known among botanists. Both reserves were established partly to protect its natural habitats. During the walk, participants learn why this modest-looking flower is so unique and how local protected areas play a crucial role in safeguarding biodiversity, illustrating how deliberate policy and community commitment to nature protection can yield tangible conservation outcomes.

The walk also provides an opportunity to discover other elements of the region's natural richness. Participants encounter tree species typical of deciduous forests such as oak, lime, hornbeam and maple, as well as a variety of forest floor plants, including rare and protected species such as periwinkle, snowdrop, Turk's cap lily and Alpine arum.

During the journey, participants learn about the important role such green enclaves play within urban landscapes. They protect local ecosystems, improve air quality, regulate microclimates and provide valuable recreational spaces for residents — benefits that underscore the concrete returns that investing in urban nature delivers for both people and the environment. At the same time, these reserves are located close to urban areas and are strongly influenced by human activity, which makes environmental awareness and responsible use of such places especially important.

The family walk 'Tracking the Cieszyn spring flower and more…' demonstrates that investing in nature also means protecting local ecosystems and building environmental awareness within communities. By fostering a direct connection between residents and the natural heritage on their doorstep, the event contributes to the knowledge-based and community-driven investment in nature that is essential for its long-term protection. It is an opportunity to rediscover the natural richness of Cieszyn, see familiar places from a new perspective and realise how extraordinary nature can thrive even in close proximity to the city.

The event is open to families, children and adults, combining outdoor recreation with learning about the natural heritage of the region.