Pavlovské vrchy

Pavlovské vrchy, also known as the Pálava Hills, are a compact limestone hill range in South Moravia, Czech Republic, notable for karst landscapes, vineyards and biodiversity. The hills form a distinctive upland rising above the surrounding lowlands and viticultural terraces.

Key attractions are walking and cycling routes along limestone ridges, panoramic viewpoints from summits and cliffs, and extensive vineyards that are part of the Mikulov wine region. The highest point is Děvín at about 550 metres above sea level, which provides wide views over the valley and nearby reservoirs.

The hills are important for both natural and archaeological heritage; Upper Paleolithic sites near the village of Pavlov have yielded significant prehistoric remains, and the long history of vineyard cultivation is visible in terraces and local villages. The area is protected for its natural and cultural values.

Pavlovské vrchy are located in the South Moravian Region near the towns of Mikulov and the Nové Mlýny reservoirs, forming a compact upland in the southern Czech lowlands.

• Protected status: The area is protected as the Pálava (Pavlovské vrchy) Protected Landscape Area and is part of a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve, noted for limestone karst and biodiversity.

What to See #

• Děvín peak: Děvín is the highest summit in the range at approximately 550 metres above sea level and offers panoramic views over the surrounding wine country and the Nové Mlýny reservoirs.
• Pavlovské cliffs: Limestone cliffs and escarpments form prominent viewpoints and walking routes along the northern edge of the hills, frequently used by hikers and wine-route visitors.
• Paleolithic sites: Archaeological sites around the village of Pavlov contain Upper Paleolithic (Gravettian) remains that have produced human and animal bones and hearths during scientific excavations.