Unlocking the White Stone Event: Explore the Libava Military Area
The cycling-tourism event known as White Stone opens up the active military area of Libava in Olomouc. This event has become a tradition, taking place on the very first day of May each year. It provides a unique opportunity not only for cyclists and scooter riders but also for hikers to explore fascinating locations that are otherwise off-limits in the military area of Libavá.
Military retreats are specifically designed for training soldiers, which introduces significant risks—not just for the troops in training but also for civilians, who are prohibited from entering these zones to ensure their safety. It is truly a remarkable event that allows White Stone to occur in this region, a privilege that is made possible through your cooperation and discipline. This event recurs every year, but there’s always uncertainty about whether it will take place next year.
Entering the Military Zone at the White Stone
Cyclists and tourists can pick from several entry points—including the village of Mrsklesy, Hlubočky, at Smilovský Mill, the town of Libavá, Nové Oldřůvkách, just above the village of Luboměř pod Strážnou, at the Green Cross, in Kozlov, above the village of Velký Újezd, and Daskabát. After paying the entrance fee, you will receive rules and maps illustrating the paths that guests are allowed to follow.
Since there is no permanent settlement within the military area, participants will essentially be on their own, or with other event-goers and organizers. It is crucial to wear suitable clothing and be prepared for abrupt changes in weather conditions, as you may not find shelter for many miles around.
Your bicycle should be in excellent working condition, preferably a mountain or trekking bike (regular everyday bikes won’t be sufficient for this terrain). It’s also a good idea to carry tools for minor repairs, spare parts for punctures, and of course, a helmet is mandatory for anyone entering the military zone, whether you are biking or scootering.
As you traverse the trails, you’ll come across the ruins of several once-thriving villages, whose remnants invite exploration. But please, do not disturb them.
You can look forward to a fantastic day outdoors, an experience you can only enjoy once a year. Unfortunately, it has faced many challenges in recent years—not just a series of storms, starting with hurricane Kyril, but importantly, the bark beetle that is wreaking havoc on the spruce forests. Even so, this European watershed of the Oder and Danube, which the White Stone event follows from north to south, is genuinely one of the most picturesque.
Entry Requires ID Only
Only those with a valid ID card will be permitted to access the military area, and this is valid only on the day of the event from 7 AM to 4 PM. Participants must exit the military zone by 4 PM at the latest. At the entry points, attendees will also receive a identification belt upon purchase, which must be worn visibly throughout the event.
The participation fee is 100 CZK, with children under 10 being admitted for free. However, children aged 10 to 15 may only enter the military zone if accompanied by an adult. It is important to note that there is strict prohibition on starting fires, camping, and smoking in the woods. Furthermore, taking photographs or videos of military facilities is prohibited as per the regulations set by the Head of the Libava Military Unit.
The White Stone event is a fantastic opportunity for cyclists, scooter riders, and hikers to explore remarkable sites in the usually closed military area of Libavá. The main organizers include Haná Velká Bystřice, the town of Velká Bystřice, and the Ornamental Society Lubavia, working together with local municipalities, the Libavá Military District, the Military Forests and Estates of the Czech Republic, Military Police, and the Police of the Czech Republic.
