Planning Your Walk to Poděbrady Lake

Before you start, it is important to know what to expect on the trail. The walk is approximately 6 kilometers long from the city center. The terrain is very flat and easy to manage. Most people finish the walk in 1.5 to 2 hours at a steady pace.

The route takes you through the Litovelské Pomoraví nature trail, which is a protected area. You should check the weather forecast before heading out. Heavy rain can make some forest sections muddy. Summer days can be quite hot, so plan for shade.

Decision Guide:

• If you want the most scenic views: Follow the walking route along the river.
• If you are short on time: Take bus number 18 or 20 to the Chomoutov stop.
• If you want to explore more: Rent a bike and use the paved cycling paths.

The path is well-marked, but having a digital map is always helpful. You can find maps at the Olomouc Tourism Portal. The trail is open year-round, but spring and summer are the most popular times.

Step-by-Step Walking Route to Poděbrady Lake

Following the walking route to Poděbrady Lake is simple if you know where to start. The journey begins in the heart of the city. You will slowly leave the urban buildings behind for lush green forests. Follow these steps to reach the water safely.

1. Start at the Embankment: Find the Olomouc Naplavka embankment near the city center. Walk north with the river on your right side. (Time: 10 mins, Cost: Free, Mistake: Walking south toward the shopping mall).
2. Follow the Red Markers: Look for the red hiking signs on trees and poles. These guide you toward the Hejčín district. The path stays close to the water. (Time: 40 mins, Cost: Free, Where: Hejčín path, Mistake: Turning away from the river too early).
3. Enter the Nature Reserve: Cross the small bridge near the weir. You are now entering the protected forest area. Keep following the main trail. (Time: 30 mins, Cost: Free, Where: Litovelské Pomoraví, Mistake: Forgetting bug spray for the forest).
4. Reach the Lake: The path opens up as you approach the Horka nad Moravou area. You will see the lake on your left. (Time: 10 mins, Cost: Free, Where: Lake entrance, Mistake: Missing the snack bar at the entrance).

Once you arrive, you can enjoy swimming at Poděbrady Lake during the summer. There are several entry points around the water. The main beach area has the most facilities for visitors.

Essential Checklist for Your Hike

Even though the walk is easy, being prepared makes it better. You do not need professional hiking gear for this route. Simple items will keep you comfortable throughout the afternoon. Here is what you should bring in your backpack.

• Comfortable Shoes: Sneakers are fine, but ensure they have a good grip.
• Water Bottle: Bring at least one liter of water per person.
• Cash: Many lakeside pubs do not accept credit cards for small totals.
• Sun Protection: A hat and sunscreen are vital for the open sections.
• Swimwear: You will want to cool off once you reach the lake.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes are common in the river forests.

If you plan to stay late, bring a light jacket. The temperature drops quickly near the water after sunset. You might also want to check for campsites near the lake if you want to stay overnight. This area is very popular for weekend trips.

Best Sights Along the Morava River

The walk is more than just a way to reach the lake. It is a beautiful riverside walk in Olomouc with many things to see. You will pass by historical weirs and modern art installations. The river itself is home to many local birds.

Keep an eye out for herons and kingfishers near the water. The nature reserve is famous for its biodiversity. You can learn more about the area at Visit Czechia. The trees change colors beautifully during the autumn months.

There are also several riverside cafes and pubs along the first half of the walk. These are great spots to grab a coffee or a local beer. You can sit by the water and watch the rowers go by. It is a very relaxing atmosphere for everyone.

Troubleshooting Your Walk to the Lake

Sometimes things do not go exactly as planned. It is good to know how to handle common issues on the trail. Most problems are easy to fix with a little bit of knowledge. Here are the most frequent issues hikers face.

• Lost Markers: If you lose the red signs, head back to the river bank.
• Muddy Paths: After rain, stick to the higher grassy edges of the trail.
• Closed Pubs: Many lakeside snack bars only open from May to September.
• Bicycle Traffic: Stay to the right to let fast cyclists pass you safely.
• Limited Toilets: Use facilities in the city center before you start the walk.
• Dead Phone: Download an offline map because signals can drop in the forest.

This is one of the most dog-friendly river walks in the region. However, keep your dog on a leash in the nature reserve. This protects the local wildlife and keeps other walkers happy. Always clean up after your pet to keep the trail beautiful.

Returning to Olomouc City Center

After a day of relaxing, you need to get back to the city. You can simply walk back the same way you came. The views look different when walking in the opposite direction. It is a nice way to end your evening.

If you are too tired to walk, head to the village of Horka nad Moravou. You can catch a local train or a bus from there. Check the schedules online as they can be infrequent on weekends. The bus will take you directly back to the main station.

Another option is to call a local taxi service. They can pick you up from the main parking lot at the lake. This is a good choice if you have heavy bags or small children. Most rides back to the center take about 10 to 15 minutes.