Lakes and dams Západní Čechy

A system of pools and waterfalls in the Central Bohemian Region

Skryjská jezírka, situated in the Central Bohemian Region within the Týřov nature reserve, represent a picturesque system of waterfalls and small pools on the Zbirožský potok stream. This natural monument is known primarily for the Velký Skryjský vodopád, which is approximately 1.5 metres high. The pools were formed by the erosive activity of the stream in hard shales. The locality is an important geological site and a habitat for protected species of plants and animals. The area is part of the extensive Křivoklátsko region.

Access

Skryjská jezírka are located in the deep valley of the Zbirožský potok near the village of Skryje. Access by car is possible as far as the village of Skryje, where a free car park is available. From there, it is necessary to continue on foot along the red-marked tourist trail through the valley, with the walk to the pools and waterfall being approximately 2.5 km long. The nearest railway station, Skryje (line 176), is about 3 km away. The area is accessible all year round, but the best conditions for hiking are during the season from April to October. During the winter, the trail can be slippery.

What is worth seeing

In the vicinity of Skryjská jezírka, visitors may explore the Zřícenina Hradu Týřov, which is located on the opposite slope above the Berounka river. Visitors may also tour the town of Rakovník with its Husovo náměstí and Baroque town hall. Another point of interest is Hrad Křivoklát, an extensive royal castle which serves as a symbol of the region and is one of the most significant medieval castles in the Czech Republic.

Water Reservoir Hidden in the Forests of the Lánská obora

Klíčavská přehrada was built between 1948 and 1955 on the Klíčava stream in the Křivoklátsko Protected Landscape Area. Its main purpose is to supply the town of Kladno and its surroundings with high-quality drinking water. The dam wall is a concrete gravity structure and reaches a height of over 50 meters. Below the dam, visitors will find a water treatment plant, which is architecturally interesting and built of red stone.

Currently, the reservoir is part of the Lánská obora and falls within the first protection zone of the water source, which is why it is inaccessible to the public. Visitors are permitted to access only the top of the dam wall, which offers a view of the water surface surrounded by deep forests. Neither swimming nor fishing is permitted here.

Access

A marked red tourist trail leads to the dam from the village of Zbečno (approx. 3 km). For motorists, parking is available on the village green in Zbečno or in a smaller car park near the information board before the no-entry sign (approx. 500 m from the dam). The nearest railway station is "Zbečno".

Things Worth Discovering

In nearby Zbečno, visitors can explore the historical Hamousův statek, which is a magnificent example of folk architecture. Not far away stands the majestic royal hrad Křivoklát with its prison and chapel. Directly at the inlet to the reservoir lies the Svatá Alžběta Nature Reserve with its original beech stands.

A walk to the top of the Klíčavská přehrada is a peaceful trip into the heart of the forests of Křivoklátsko. It offers a view of a significant engineering structure in harmony with the surrounding nature.

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.