Choosing Your Route to Poděbrady Lake

The journey to the lake is just as beautiful as the destination itself. Most travelers start their adventure by exploring the various walking routes in Olomouc that lead north. These paths are well-maintained and offer great views of the Moravian countryside. You will see plenty of greenery and local wildlife along the way.

The most popular choice is to follow the Morava River nature paths. These trails run parallel to the water and provide a peaceful atmosphere. They are separated from car traffic, making them very safe for families. You can enjoy the sound of the river while you walk.

If you prefer a faster pace, cycling is a fantastic option. The terrain is almost entirely flat, so it is not very tiring. Many locals use this route for their daily exercise. You can easily find the trail by looking for the blue or red hiking markers. These signs are common throughout the Czech Republic.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get to Poděbrady Lake Walking Trail

Reaching the lake requires following a specific path through the northern suburbs. You should start your journey near the Envelopa district or the main university campus. From there, you will head toward the Lazce neighborhood. This is where the nature trails officially begin to leave the city behind.

As you move north, the urban landscape turns into lush wetlands and forests. This area is part of the Litovelské Pomoraví Protected Landscape Area. It is important to stay on the marked paths to protect the environment. You will find several spots to sit and rest along the riverbank.

1. Step 1: Locate the River Path: Find the Morava River near the city center. Walk north with the water on your left side. Time: 5 minutes to find. Cost: Free. Location: Near the bridge on Masarykova Street. Common Mistake: Walking south toward the train station instead of north.
2. Step 2: Follow the Lazce Trail: Continue straight through the Lazce district on the paved path. Time: 25 minutes. Cost: Free. Location: Northern Olomouc. Common Mistake: Turning off into the residential streets too early.
3. Step 3: Cross the Horka Junction: Follow the signs pointing toward Horka nad Moravou. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Location: Field paths north of the city. Common Mistake: Missing the small wooden sign for "Jezero Poděbrady."
4. Step 4: Enter the Lake Area: Cross the small wooden bridge to enter the recreation zone. Time: 5 minutes. Cost: Free (some beaches have fees). Location: Poděbrady Lake entrance. Common Mistake: Entering the private fishing zones by mistake.

Essential Preparation and Checklist

Before you head out, you should check the local weather forecast. The trail can get quite dusty in summer or muddy after a heavy rain. Wearing comfortable walking shoes is a must for this trip. Even though the path is flat, the distance can be tiring for some. You can find more updates on the Olomouc Tourism Portal for seasonal events.

There are limited shops along the walking trails along the Morava River. It is wise to bring your own snacks and plenty of water. During the summer, the sun can be very strong on the open fields. Sunscreen and a hat will make your walk much more enjoyable.

• Checklist for your walk:
• Comfortable walking or running shoes.
• A reusable water bottle (at least 1 liter).
• Small amount of Czech Koruna (CZK) for the lakeside kiosks.
• A fully charged phone with an offline map app.
• Bug spray, especially for the river sections in the evening.
• A swimsuit and towel if you plan to take a dip.

Decision Guide: Best Way to Travel

Deciding how to get to the lake depends on your schedule and energy. If you have a full afternoon, walking is the most rewarding choice. It allows you to see the changing landscape at a slow pace. However, if you only have a few hours, consider other methods.

Public transport is a reliable and cheap alternative for many travelers. Bus number 18 runs frequently from the main transport hubs. It drops you off within a short walk of the lake entrance. This is a great choice if the weather suddenly turns bad.

• If you want a workout: Choose the cycling path for a fast, active trip.
• If you are on a tight budget: Walk the river trail for a free experience.
• If you have children: Take the bus to save their energy for swimming.
• If you want the best views: Stick to the walking trail along the river.

Troubleshooting and Common Problems

Even the best plans can face small hurdles during a trip. One common issue is the lack of English signage on the smaller trails. Most signs use Czech names, so look for "Poděbrady" or "Horka." Having a map on your phone will help you stay on the right track. You should also be aware of the local bus schedules for your return.

The path can sometimes be crowded on sunny weekends. Cyclists and pedestrians share the same space, so stay to the right. If you are walking at dusk, be mindful of the lack of lighting. The nature trails do not have street lamps once you leave the city limits.

• Path Flooding: Avoid the river trail after very heavy rainfall.
• Bus Tickets: Buy your ticket via SMS or at a machine before boarding.
• Mosquitoes: These are common near the water in late afternoon.
• Closed Kiosks: Food stands at the lake may close in the off-season.
• Wrong Turns: If you reach the highway, you have gone too far east.
• Phone Battery: Cold weather can drain your battery faster than usual.