Orlická

Orlická is a Czech toponym and adjectival form related to the Orlické hory (Orlické Mountains) and the surrounding landscape in the eastern part of the Czech Republic. The name derives from the Divoká Orlice river (also associated with the Orlice region) and appears in various local place names and geographic designations in the area.

Geography and landscape: The Orlické hory form a low to mid-height mountain range running roughly north–south along the Czech–Polish border, spanning parts of the Hradec Králové and Pardubice Regions. The terrain is predominantly forested, with ridges and deep valleys carved by streams. The Divoká Orlice river flows through the region, and the Orlická přehrada reservoir lies on one of its tributaries, serving as a water resource and recreation area. The highest summit of the range is Velká Deštná.

Protected areas and environment: The area includes the Chráněná krajinná oblast Orlické hory, a designated protected landscape area established to conserve natural habitats, biodiversity and scenic value. The landscape supports forestry, pastoral activities and a variety of outdoor recreational uses, balancing conservation with local livelihoods.

Human use and tourism: The Orlické hory region is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, offering hiking and cycling in the warmer months and cross-country skiing in winter. Local towns and villages act as gateways to forests, historical churches and rural architecture, with an emphasis on sustainable tourism and regional culture.

Name usage: Orlická appears in multiple place names and references within the region, reflecting its geographic and cultural associations with the mountains, the river and surrounding settlements.