Why Explore the Bolevec Pond System?

The Bolevec ponds are more than just a place to cool off. They represent a unique medieval water management system. These ponds have served the city for over 500 years. Today, they form a massive "green lung" for northern Plzeň. You will find sandy beaches, dense forests, and rare peat bogs here.

The area is incredibly accessible for all types of travelers. You can take a short tram ride and be in the woods within minutes. It is a favorite spot for morning runners and weekend picnickers. The trails are well-marked and mostly flat. This makes them ideal for children or casual walkers.

Visiting these ponds is one of the best hidden gems in Plzeň for nature lovers. You can enjoy the fresh air without leaving the city limits. Each pond has its own character and purpose. Some are built for recreation, while others protect local wildlife. Explore the official Plzeň Region official site for seasonal updates on water quality.

Top 10 Bolevec Ponds Walking Trails and Swimming Spots

This list highlights the most iconic spots within the pond network. Each location offers something different for your itinerary. Here are the top picks for your next outdoor adventure in Plzeň.

• Quick picks:
• Best for swimming: Velký Bolevecký
• Best for nature: Kamenný Rybník
• Best for families: Šídlovák
• Best for hiking: Sigmond Trail

1. Name: Velký Bolevecký Rybník Type: Swimming spot Why go: This is the largest pond with the best infrastructure. It features sandy beaches and grassy areas for sunbathing. Best for: Families and social swimmers. Where: Main entrance near the Bílá Hora neighborhood. Time: 3-5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram line 1 to the 'Bolevec' stop. Tip: Head to the Ostende beach for snacks and equipment rentals.
2. Name: Kamenný Rybník Type: Nature reserve Why go: Known for its dark, tea-colored water due to the surrounding peat bogs. It is surrounded by beautiful pine forests. Best for: Nature photographers and quiet walks. Where: Northern edge of the system. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 15 minutes north from Velký Bolevecký. Tip: Look for the rare sundew plants in the protected marsh areas nearby.
3. Name: Sigmond Educational Trail Type: Walking trail Why go: A 7-kilometer loop that connects several ponds and historical sites. It features 15 information boards about local ecology. Best for: Hikers and history buffs. Where: Starts near the Bolevec tram terminus. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take Tram 1 to the end of the line. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as some sections have tree roots and uneven ground.
4. Name: Šídlovský Rybník (Šídlovák) Type: Swimming and leisure Why go: A smaller, cozy pond with excellent water quality. It is very popular with locals for evening swims. Best for: A quick refreshing dip after work. Where: Western part of the pond system. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Bus line 30 to the 'Gerská' stop. Tip: There is a great ranch nearby where you can see horses.
5. Name: Senecký Rybník Type: Activity spot Why go: This pond is often used for sports and youth camps. It has a relaxed, youthful atmosphere. Best for: Active travelers and students. Where: Located between Velký and Šídlovský ponds. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via the main forest paths. Tip: Check out the nearby training grounds if you enjoy outdoor fitness.
6. Name: Třemošenský Rybník Type: Experience Why go: A quiet pond perfect for birdwatching. It is less crowded than the main swimming lakes. Best for: Peace and quiet. Where: Eastern side of the woods. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow-marked hiking trail. Tip: Bring binoculars to spot local waterfowl in the reeds.
7. Name: Košinář Pond Type: Walking trail Why go: This pond is surrounded by dense greenery. The path around it is very scenic in autumn. Best for: Romantic walks. Where: South of Senecký pond. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk from the 'Bolevecká náves' area. Tip: This area is particularly beautiful when the leaves change color.
8. Name: Vydymáč Pond Type: Hidden gem Why go: One of the most remote ponds in the system. It feels like a deep forest lake far from the city. Best for: Escaping the crowds. Where: Far northern reaches of the forest. Time: 2 hours (including walk). Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the Sigmond Trail deep into the woods. Tip: There are no facilities here, so bring your own water and snacks.
9. Name: Strženka Pond Type: Nature spot Why go: A small, picturesque pond that was recently revitalized. It is a great spot for a quiet picnic. Best for: Picnics and relaxation. Where: Near the Petrovka nature reserve. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk north from Šídlovský pond. Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby sandstone rock formations.
10. Name: Petrovka Nature Reserve Type: Day trip Why go: While not a pond, this reserve borders the system. It features unique canyons and old pine trees. Best for: Adventurous hikers. Where: Just north of the pond network. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the green hiking markers from the ponds. Tip: Look for the 'Spejbl and Hurvínek' statues hidden in the woods nearby.

Essential Tips for Visiting Bolevec Ponds

Planning your visit is easy with a few simple tips. The best time for swimming is from June to August. For hiking, spring and autumn offer the best temperatures. Winter is also beautiful when the ponds freeze over for skating.

Public transport is the most convenient way to arrive. Tram line 1 runs frequently from the city center to Bolevec. You can buy tickets using a contactless card on the tram. Parking is available near Velký Bolevecký but fills up fast on weekends.

Pack light but bring the essentials. A towel and swimsuit are a must for summer. Most trails are shaded, but sunscreen is still recommended. You can find more travel info on the Visit Plzeň website. Always remember to take your trash with you to protect the environment.

Discover More Hidden Gems in Plzeň

The Bolevec ponds are just the beginning of Plzeň's natural beauty. If you enjoy quiet spaces, consider visiting the meditation garden in Plzeň Doudlevce. It offers a different kind of peace compared to the wild forests of Bolevec. Both spots show a side of the city many tourists miss.

For those seeking views, the ponds provide a flat landscape. To see the city from above, check out the best viewpoints in Plzeň besides the cathedral. You can see the pond system from some of the northern hills. This gives you a great perspective on how large the forest area truly is.

Finally, don't forget the city's classic attractions. After a long hike, a beer at the brewery is well-deserved. You can learn about the history of the city's famous export on a Pilsner Urquell brewery tour. It is the perfect way to end a day of exploring the outdoors.