Top 17 Lakes in the Bohemian Forest

Among the most popular lakes, visitors frequently enjoy Plešné jezero, a glacial lake below the Plöckenstein, known for its picturesque views and resting spots for hikers and cyclists. Another favorite is Prášilské Jezero (Stubenbacher Lake), offering an idyllic landscape with benches for relaxation. Jelení Jezírko is also highly regarded, surrounded by forest and offering family-friendly access with viewpoints.

Yes, several lakes boast unique natural features. Lake Laka (Jezero Laka) is notable for its floating islands of vegetation, a rare natural phenomenon. Kleiner Arbersee in the Bavarian Forest also features unique 'floating islands' formed by detached shore felts. The Tříjezerní Slať Peat Bog, while not a single lake, is a complex of three peat lakes within a moorland area, home to rare plants and an educational trail.

For families, Jelení Jezírko is a great choice, offering family-friendly access and viewpoints. The Tříjezerní Slať Peat Bog features a 250-meter-long educational trail around its three peat lakes, making it an engaging option for children. Additionally, the Beach on Vltava River is categorized as family-friendly.

Černé jezero holds historical significance as the site of the oldest pumped-storage hydroelectric plant in the Czech Republic, built between 1929 and 1930, now a technical monument. Its atmosphere has also inspired many notable writers, poets, and composers. Čertovo jezero is surrounded by local legends about its origin, including a tale involving the devil. Rachelsee is also steeped in local myths and legends.

Absolutely. The Bohemian Forest is renowned for its hiking trails around the lakes. You can find various options, from easy walks to more challenging mountain hikes. For example, a 1.5-kilometer circular trail allows visitors to explore Kleiner Arbersee. Many lakes, like Černé jezero and Rachelsee, are primarily accessible by hiking, offering rewarding journeys through the forest. You can explore a variety of routes in the region, including Mountain Hikes, Waterfall Hikes, and Easy Hikes in the Bohemian Forest.

Černé jezero (Black Lake) holds the distinction of being the largest and deepest natural lake in the entire Czech Republic and the Bohemian Forest. It covers 18.43 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of 40 meters.

Some areas around the lakes offer facilities. For instance, Prášilské Jezero (Stubenbacher Lake) has benches available for resting. The nearby Nova Pec Village, close to the Lipno Reservoir, offers cafes and restaurants. Plešné jezero also has a shelter and places to take a break on its east bank.

Lake Laka (Jezero Laka) is unique for being the highest, smallest, and shallowest glacial lake in the Šumava mountains. Its bottom is peaty, leading to its gradual overgrowth with vegetation, including several distinctive floating islands of lush plant life in its center, which are a primary draw for visitors.

Many lakes are excellent for nature observation. Kleiner Arbersee is a designated nature reserve and home to many rare animal and plant species, including otters and beavers. Černé jezero and Čertovo jezero are part of national nature reserves, preserving rare flora and fauna, including arctic-alpine species. The Tříjezerní Slať Peat Bog is also known for its rare plants like the swamp pine and carnivorous round-leaved tree frog.

Visitors consistently praise the beautiful nature and idyllic landscapes surrounding the lakes. Many appreciate the tranquility and the opportunity to rest and enjoy the views, with benches often available. The unique features like floating islands and the clear waters are also frequently highlighted. The region's lakes are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 580 upvotes and more than 430 photos shared across 16 highlights.

While many lakes are beautiful, swimming is generally not permitted in the protected glacial lakes like Prášilské Jezero, Černé jezero, or Čertovo jezero, as they are part of national nature reserves. These regulations help preserve their delicate ecosystems. However, the Beach on Vltava River offers a designated spot for water activities.

Čertovo jezero (Devil's Lake) is renowned for its crystal-clear water and the dark, mysterious primeval spruce forests that surround it. Its remote location and the legends associated with its origin contribute to its unique and mystical atmosphere.

Yes, several locations offer excellent views. The best views of Prášilské jezero can be enjoyed from the Poledník lookout tower, which provides expansive vistas of the Šumava Mountains. Many highlights like Plešné jezero and Jelení Jezírko are themselves noted as viewpoints, offering scenic perspectives of the water and surrounding landscapes.