Exploring the Poděbrady natural lake walking path

The Poděbrady area is a favorite local spot for outdoor recreation. It features a large lake formed from a former gravel pit. The water is clean and surrounded by lush greenery. The Poděbrady natural lake walking path circles the water and connects to the city. It is part of a larger network of trails in the region. You will find people cycling, skating, and walking here year-round.

Getting to the trail is very easy from the city center. You can follow a dedicated path that leads through the Morava river valley. This route is flat and well-maintained for all fitness levels. Many visitors enjoy swimming and walking at Poděbrady gravel pit during the summer. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming for everyone.

There are several entry points to the lake area. Most people start near the village of Horka nad Moravou. The path offers plenty of shade under tall trees. You can stop at small kiosks for a cold drink or a snack. It is a great place to see local wildlife and birds. Don't forget to bring your camera for the sunset views over the water.

11 Best Sights Near the Poděbrady natural lake walking path

Olomouc offers a mix of historic monuments and natural escapes. You can easily combine a trip to the lake with city sightseeing. Here are the top items to include on your itinerary. Use these best walks in Olomouc to plan your perfect route.

• Quick picks:
• Best overall: Holy Trinity Column
• Best for families: Smetana Park
• Best rainy-day: Olomouc Museum of Art
• Best free: Poděbrady Lake

1. Name: Poděbrady Lake Type: nature Why go: It is the best spot for natural swimming and peaceful lakeside strolls. Best for: Families and swimmers. Where: Horka nad Moravou, north of the city. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk or bike from the center via the river path. Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid the largest crowds.
2. Name: Holy Trinity Column Type: iconic sight Why go: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture. Best for: History buffs and photographers. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the main tram stop. Tip: Look for the small golden cannonball embedded in the column.
3. Name: Smetana Park Type: nature Why go: It is the city's largest park with beautiful flower displays and a palm house. Best for: Relaxing walks and picnics. Where: South of the historic center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free (Palm house has a small fee). Getting there: Walk from the city center in 10 minutes. Tip: Check out the olomouc parks and gardens walking routes for more details.
4. Name: Svatý Kopeček Type: day trip Why go: This "Holy Hill" features a stunning Baroque basilica and panoramic city views. Best for: Viewpoints and spiritual history. Where: 8km northeast of Olomouc. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Free (donations welcome). Getting there: Take bus number 11 from the main train station. Tip: Follow the Svatý Kopeček pilgrimage trail for a scenic hike.
5. Name: Olomouc Museum of Art Type: museum Why go: It houses a vast collection of modern and ancient Central European art. Best for: Art lovers and rainy days. Where: Denisova street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies; check the official museum site. Getting there: Located in the heart of the Old Town. Tip: Visit the Archdiocesan Museum section for incredible gold treasures.
6. Name: Litovelské Pomoraví Type: nature Why go: A protected landscape area perfect for long-distance hiking and bird watching. Best for: Serious hikers and nature enthusiasts. Where: Starts near Poděbrady Lake. Time: 4-6 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Continue walking past the lake on the marked trails. Tip: Read about nature trails near Olomouc before you go.
7. Name: Olomouc Fortress Walls Type: sight Why go: Explore the remains of the city's medieval and Baroque defensive systems. Best for: History lovers. Where: Bezruč Park and around the center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible from multiple points in the Old Town. Tip: Try walking the Olomouc fortress walls at sunset for great photos.
8. Name: St. Wenceslas Cathedral Type: iconic sight Why go: A massive Gothic cathedral with the tallest spire in Moravia. Best for: Architecture fans. Where: Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí). Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Short walk from the Museum of Art. Tip: Visit the crypt to see the tombs of local bishops.
9. Name: Baroque Fountains Circuit Type: experience Why go: Olomouc is famous for its unique set of six historic fountains. Best for: Casual explorers. Where: Spread across the Upper and Lower Squares. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Start at the Upper Square and walk toward the Lower Square. Tip: Each fountain depicts a different figure from Roman mythology.
10. Name: Bezruč Park Type: nature Why go: A quiet park located right under the historic city walls along the river. Best for: A quick nature break. Where: East side of the city center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk down from the Cathedral area. Tip: This is one of the best spots for scenic evening walks in Olomouc.
11. Name: Upper Square Market Type: experience Why go: Try local Moravian specialties and the famous smelly Olomouc cheese. Best for: Foodies. Where: Upper Square (Horní náměstí). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free entry; pay for food. Getting there: Central location, easy to find. Tip: Look for the "tvarůžky" cheese in local shops if the market is closed.

Planning your walk to Poděbrady Lake

Knowing how to walk to Poděbrady Lake makes your trip smoother. The path is roughly 5 kilometers from the city center. You should wear comfortable walking shoes or sneakers. The terrain is mostly flat and paved with some gravel sections. It is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs in most parts.

Bring a bottle of water and some sun protection. There is limited shade on certain parts of the open trail. If you plan to swim, bring a towel and swimwear. There are changing areas and toilets near the main beach. The water quality is usually monitored by local authorities for safety.

You can also reach the lake by bike very quickly. Olomouc has a great bike-sharing system you can use. The ride takes about 20 minutes from the Upper Square. Always stay on the marked paths to protect the local environment. Respect the quiet zones where birds might be nesting.

Seasonal tips for Olomouc nature trails

The experience on the lake path changes with the seasons. Summer is the most popular time for swimming and sunbathing. The water temperature is refreshing during the hot July days. You can find many people enjoying picnics on the grass. It is the best time for a lively, social atmosphere.

Autumn brings vibrant colors to the trees along the Morava river. The walking path becomes a scenic tunnel of gold and red. It is much quieter than the summer months. This is the perfect time for photography and long, peaceful hikes. Make sure to check the Olomouc Tourism Portal for local events.

Winter offers a different kind of beauty on the trail. If it snows, the area looks like a white wonderland. You can still enjoy winter walking routes in Olomouc if you dress warmly. The lake may freeze, but walking on the ice is not recommended. Always check local weather reports before heading out in the cold.