Jezero Medard
If you are in the vicinity of Sokolov and looking for an ideal spot for outdoor recreation and sports, you should definitely head to jezero Medard. Previously, the site was occupied by a coal basin that required a new purpose. To ensure easy access for both locals and tourists, a bypass was completed in 2019, which significantly simplified its transport accessibility. Near jezero Medard, you will also find the Svatava railway station, which may be a good option for tourists who do not have the possibility of travelling there by car.
The history of this body of water is closely linked to the end of coal mining, after which it was necessary to proceed with the overall reclamation and revitalisation of the affected area. Mining in the pits ceased in the year 2000. However, another 8 years passed before the filling of Medard could begin. It only reached its planned water level in 2016. An interesting fact is that in 2020, it was the largest artificially created lake in the Czech Republic. Its total area is 500 ha, it is 4 km long, 1.5 km wide, and its depth is an impressive 57 m.
Primarily, jezero Medard serves as a venue for water sports. For swimming, the nearby jezero Michal, which serves as a natural swimming pool, is more suitable. Furthermore, the surroundings of jezero Medard are still undergoing extensive revitalisation, which brings visitors fishing clubs and bird islands, allowing for the real-time observation of water birds. You can also look forward to a walk along the Alej přátelství, which was created to mark the 100th anniversary of the Republic. It is interesting to note that buckets are available next to the trees, which can be used to draw water from the lake for watering. A cycling path also leads through its surroundings, so cycling enthusiasts will certainly enjoy their time here as well.
Are you considering securing accommodation near jezero Medard in one of the local facilities? In that case, you will also have plenty of time for other trips in the area. One good tip is the Muzeum Sokolov, which is housed in a romantic chateau building. In the countryside around Habartov, there is an interesting rock formation called Velký kámen. Come and explore this constantly forming tourist destination, which will convince you how easy it is to turn the old into the new.
