Rícky v Orlických horách: History and Description
Rícky v Orlických horách (German: Ritschka) is a picturesque mountain village located in the Hradec Králové Region, nestled in the Orlické Mountains (Eagle Mountains).
Description: The village lies in a valley and on the slopes of the surrounding hills, such as Zakletý, Pustý, and Anenský vrch (Anna's Peak). It is known for its unspoiled nature and many preserved timbered log cabins, many of which are now used for recreation. It has a small permanent population (around 100 inhabitants).
History:
The first written mention of the village dates back to the mid-16th century (around 1571), originally noted as a lumberjack settlement.
The area was originally settled primarily by Czech people, later seeing an influx of German settlers, especially for forestry and glassmaking.
Following the expulsion of the German population after World War II, the number of inhabitants significantly decreased.
In the 1950s and 60s, the empty houses, particularly the traditional chalets, were gradually settled by artists, establishing Rícky as a minor artistic colony.
The modern Ski Center Rícky on the slope of Zakletý was developed starting in the 1960s, transforming the village into a significant winter resort.
Landmarks and Points of Interest:
Church of the Most Holy Trinity (Kostel Nejsvetejší Trojice).
A set of erected stones, often referred to as Stonehenge (not to be confused with the famous site), on a meadow above the village, the origin and purpose of which are a subject of local debate.
Traditional timbered chalets.
Typical Foods and Cuisine
While Rícky v Orlických horách does not have a unique local dish specific only to the village, the cuisine reflects traditional Czech and mountain gastronomy, served in local restaurants and hospody (pubs). You can expect:
Hearty Main Dishes: Dishes commonly found in mountain areas, such as roasted pork neck or pork tenderloin, chicken schnitzel, and various dishes with dumplings or potatoes. Marinated ribs or baked pork knee are also popular pub fare.
Snacks and Starters: Traditional Czech snacks often served with beer, like Marinated Camembert cheese (Nakládaný hermelín) and Traditional Pickled Sausage (Utopenec).
Desserts: You may find sweet treats like homemade pancakes with fillings, and desserts often served at markets or tourist spots, such as Koláce (Czech pastries) and Trdelník (a sweet spiral of rolled dough).
Soups: Expect warming soups, often including a classic Beef Broth with noodles and vegetables.
Nature and Scenery
The village is situated in the Orlické hory Protected Landscape Area (PLA), known for its pristine mountain environment.
Orlické Hory (Eagle Mountains): The range is defined by its rounded ridges and deep valleys. The highest peak, Velká Deštná (1,115 m a.s.l.), is accessible via hiking trails from the area.
Forests and Flora: The surrounding nature is characterized by extensive forests, which were historically managed for timber. The forests and meadows offer opportunities for picking berries and mushrooms in season.
Nature Reserve: Nearby, you can find the Bukacka National Nature Reserve, known for its wild forest with beech trees.
Waterways: The village is named after the Rícka stream (meaning "little river"), which flows through the valley.
Activities: Summer and Winter
Rícky is a year-round destination, popular primarily for its modern Ski Center Rícky on the slopes of Zakletý hill.
Summer Activities
Hiking: Numerous marked tourist trails are available, including the historic Jiráskova horská cesta (Jirásek Mountain Trail) along the main ridge. Popular trips include the summit of Velká Deštná and Anenský vrch (Anna's Peak), which offers a viewing tower.
Cycling: An extensive network of cycling trails caters to various difficulties.
The Ski Center operates a Bikepark using the chairlift to transport riders and bikes.
Rentals for mountain terrain tricycles and scooters for downhill fun.
Adventure Sports: An Adventure Golf course is located in the area.
Fortifications: The area is rich in history related to World War II fortifications. You can visit the large underground fort, Artillery Fortress Hanicka, located a short trip away.
Winter Activities
Downhill Skiing: The Ski Center Rícky is considered one of the best in the Orlické Mountains, featuring:
A six-seat chairlift and surface lifts.
Slopes of various difficulties (blue, red, and black).
Ski and snowboard school, rental, and service.
Cross-Country Skiing: A network of regularly groomed cross-country trails is accessible directly from the area, often following the main ridge of the Orlické Mountains.
Other: Ski mountaineering is also an option.
Shops and Festivals
Shops
As a small mountain village, the shopping in Rícky v Orlických horách is generally limited, focusing on basic necessities and services for tourists.
Basic Services: There is at least one Food Mart/Convenience Store (Potraviny) in the village for daily consumer goods.
Tourist Services: The Ski Center and hotels often provide services like equipment rental and service.
Shopping Nearby: For a wider range of shops, including specialty shops, bookstores, and markets, you would need to travel to the nearby town of Rokytnice v Orlických horách (a short drive away) or other larger towns like Rychnov nad Knežnou.
Festivals
Rícky itself may host smaller, local events, especially during peak seasons. However, the wider region of the Orlické Mountains and nearby towns often host cultural events and festivals, which you can easily access from Rícky:
Seasonal Fairs: You can find Harvest and Autumn Fairs with local crafts, markets, and folklore in the region.
Music and Culture: Towns like Rokytnice v Orlických horách host festivals, such as the Rokytnice Folk Festival (Rokytnický lidový festival).
Winter Events: The Christmas and New Year period often features Winter Markets and celebrations in the area.