Top 10 Spots for Your Swimming in Brno Reservoir Guide

The reservoir is large, and each shore has a different vibe. Some areas are bustling with bars, while others are quiet and wild. Using this guide will help you choose the right beach for your mood. Many of these spots are also stops for the local ferry. You can combine a swim with a scenic Brno Reservoir boat trip to see more of the area.

• Best Overall: Rakovec
• Best for Families: Kozí horka
• Best for Views: Veveří Castle area
• Best for Activities: Sokolské koupaliště

1. Name: Rakovec Type: Beach Why go: This is the most popular entry point with wide grassy areas. It has excellent facilities and easy water access. Best for: Socializing and convenience. Where: Near the Bystrc tram terminus. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take Tram 1 to Přístaviště. Tip: Arrive before 10:00 AM on weekends to secure a spot near the trees.
2. Name: Kozí horka Type: Family Beach Why go: The water here stays shallow for a long distance. This makes it much safer for small children to splash around. Best for: Families with kids. Where: The southwestern shore. Time: Half-day. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 15 minutes from the Rakovec stop or take a boat. Tip: You can rent pedal boats with slides here for extra fun.
3. Name: Sokolské koupaliště Type: Active Beach Why go: This area is famous for beach volleyball courts and fitness equipment. It has a lively atmosphere with many snack bars. Best for: Sports lovers and young groups. Where: The northern shore. Time: 4 hours. Cost: Free (courts have fees). Getting there: Take the ferry to the Sokolské koupaliště stop. Tip: Try the local fried cheese (smažený sýr) at one of the kiosks.
4. Name: Osada Type: Quiet Spot Why go: It is further away from the main crowds. The atmosphere is peaceful and perfect for reading a book. Best for: Couples and solo travelers. Where: Between Rakovec and Rokle. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: A scenic 20-minute walk from the main pier. Tip: Bring your own snacks as there are fewer shops here.
5. Name: Rokle Type: Nature Inlet Why go: This spot feels more like a hidden cove. It is surrounded by forest and offers plenty of shade. Best for: Nature lovers. Where: Mid-way up the reservoir. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Best reached by the public boat service. Tip: Wear water shoes as the ground can be a bit rocky.
6. Name: Veveří Castle Shore Type: Scenic Swim Why go: You can swim right under the historic Veveří Castle. The view of the fortress from the water is incredible. Best for: Photography and history fans. Where: Near the castle bridge. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take the boat to the Hrad Veveří stop. Tip: Visit the castle first, then cool off in the water below.
7. Name: U Kotvy Type: Beach & Bar Why go: This area has a great selection of pubs and restaurants. It is perfect for a swim followed by a cold Czech beer. Best for: Foodies and evening relaxers. Where: Near the main Bystrc harbor. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the Přístaviště tram stop. Tip: Check the local event calendar for live music in the evenings.
8. Name: Paddleboard Rental Rakovec Type: Activity Why go: Seeing the reservoir from a board is a unique experience. It is a great core workout and very relaxing. Best for: Active explorers. Where: Various rental kiosks at Rakovec. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Usually 200-300 CZK per hour. Getting there: Tram 1 to Přístaviště. Tip: Go during sunset for the most beautiful views.
9. Name: Public Boat Transport Type: Experience Why go: These electric boats have been running since 1946. They connect all the major swimming spots efficiently. Best for: Seeing the whole reservoir. Where: Starts at Bystrc Pier. Time: 45-70 minutes for a full loop. Cost: Check the Brno Reservoir boat schedule and price for current rates. Getting there: Central pier at Bystrc. Tip: Buy a day pass if you plan to hop on and off at different beaches.
10. Name: Bystrc Promenade Type: Evening Stroll Why go: After swimming, walk the promenade for ice cream and people-watching. It is a classic Brno summer tradition. Best for: Ending your day trip. Where: The main harbor area. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Right next to the tram stop. Tip: Try the "točená zmrzlina" (soft-serve ice cream) from the street vendors.

Practical Tips for Swimming in Brno Reservoir

Safety and cleanliness are important for any lake trip. The water quality in Brno Reservoir is generally good. However, it can change during very hot summers. Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) can sometimes appear in late August. You should always check the latest health reports before jumping in. The official Go To Brno portal often provides updates on water safety.

Most beaches are grassy rather than sandy. This means you should bring a thick towel or a picnic blanket. Shade can be limited at the most popular spots. Bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Many areas have public toilets and showers, but they may require a small fee. Carrying small coins in Czech Koruna is always a good idea.

Timing your visit can make a big difference. Weekends in July are very busy. If you prefer peace, try to visit on a weekday morning. The water is usually warmest from late June to early September. Even in high summer, the evenings can get cool near the water. Bring a light jacket if you plan to stay for dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

Planning Your Trip and Getting There

Getting to the water is very simple from the city center. You do not need a car to enjoy the reservoir. Most locals use the efficient public transport system. You can find detailed info on how to get to Brno Reservoir to plan your route. The journey usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes from the main station.

The primary transport hub is the Přístaviště stop in Bystrc. Tram lines 1 and 3 serve this area frequently. You can check the latest timetables on the DPMB - Brno Public Transport website. Once you arrive at the tram stop, follow the signs to the water. It is a short and pleasant walk past several shops and cafes.

If you are visiting other top attractions in Brno, the reservoir is a great afternoon addition. You can spend the morning at a museum and the afternoon at the beach. If you do choose to drive, there are large parking lots in Bystrc. However, these fill up very quickly on sunny days. Using the tram is usually much less stressful for visitors.