Where to swim in clean water: a guide to Czechia's natural swimming spots

On scorching summer days, when city temperatures climb above 30°C, natural bodies of water offer a great alternative to swimming pools and water parks. Across Czechia there are dozens of flooded quarries, sand pits, lakes and reservoirs with clean — and sometimes almost crystal-clear — water.

Water quality at natural swimming spots can change throughout the season, so it's worth checking the latest information with the regional hygiene station or the site operator before heading out. At unsupervised quarries and sand pits, swimming is at your own risk — there are usually no lifeguards or facilities on hand.

The clearest water

The Božena Hora quarry near Sedlčany is considered the clearest of them all, with visibility reaching 5 metres. The Šifr quarry near Svobodné Heřmanice and Lgota Lake are also known for their pristine water.

Diving enthusiasts should check out the flooded quarries of Kamenný Vrch near Trhová Kamenice and Řídelov near Telč, as well as Čenkov, Božena Hora, Šifr and Šošůvka.

Where to go with kids

Popular with families are the Sadská sand quarry, with its sandy beaches shaded by pine forest, and Poděbrady Lake, which has grassy and sandy beaches, slides and sports facilities. Worth noting: Sadská, Poděbrady Lake and Lgota Lake all have separate nudist beaches.

Water sports and active recreation

For sailing, windsurfing or boat rentals, head to Lake Barbora near Teplice, Moravičany Lake or the Slezská Harta reservoir. SUP boards can be rented near the small Tušť sand quarry close to Suchdol nad Lužnicí, while boats and pedal boats are available at Poděbrady Lake.

The natural surroundings are impressive too: at the Mašovice quarry near Znojmo you can spot rare amphibians, including the great crested newt, while the area around Moravičany Lake is an important refuge for aquatic and wetland wildlife. Some spots stand out for their unusual shapes — the Rampa quarry in Černá Voda has a striking sheer wall, the flooded Hradišťský Vrch quarry resembles a dog's paw print, and the Libeč quarry is known for its reddish rock walls. For a bite to eat by the water, try Poděbrady Lake, Hradišťský Vrch, Staré Kličov or Božena Hora quarry.

Read also: 8 best swimming spots near Prague: lakes, quarries and beaches within an hour of the capital

Around Prague, based on reporting by kudyznudy.cz