Quick Picks for Your Visit

Before you head out, check these top recommendations. The area is quite large and offers diverse environments. Some spots are better for swimming, while others focus on history. Use these quick picks to decide where to start your journey. You can also explore more scenic walks in Plzeň if you have extra time.

• Best Overall: Velký Bolevecký Rybník for its size and facilities.
• Best for Families: Šídlovský Rybník with its easy paths and playgrounds.
• Best for Nature: Kamenný Rybník and the surrounding peat bogs.
• Best Free Activity: Walking the Sigmond Nature Trail loop.

10 Best Sights on the Bolevec Ponds Nature Trails

The system of ponds dates back to the 15th century. It is a masterpiece of medieval engineering that still functions today. Most trails are well-marked with color-coded signs. You can find many family-friendly walks in Plzeň within this specific area. Here are the top ten spots you should not miss.

1. Name: Velký Bolevecký Rybník Type: Sight/Activity Why go: This is the largest pond in the system. It offers sandy beaches and clear water for swimming. Best for: Sunbathers and swimmers. Where: Southern edge of the Bolevec district. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: Free access. Getting there: Take tram 1 to the "Bolevecký rybník" stop. Tip: Visit the Ostende beach area for the best amenities.
2. Name: Kamenný Rybník Type: Nature Why go: Known for its dark, tea-colored water due to the nearby peat bogs. It is surrounded by beautiful pine forests. Best for: Photographers and nature lovers. Where: Northern part of the trail system. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow trail from the Bolevec tram terminal. Tip: Look for the rare plants growing in the marshy edges.
3. Name: Sigmond Nature Trail Type: Experience Why go: This 7-kilometer loop teaches you about local ecology and history. It features 15 educational stops. Best for: Hikers wanting to learn. Where: Starts near the Bolevec tram loop. Time: 2.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Tram 1 to the "Bolevec" final stop. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes as some sections are sandy.
4. Name: Kolomazná pec Type: Unique Experience Why go: A rare, well-preserved 18th-century tar kiln. It shows how locals once produced tar from pine wood. Best for: History buffs. Where: Hidden in the woods near Sigmond trail. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the yellow markers from Kamenný Rybník. Tip: Read the nearby info board to understand the firing process.
5. Name: Senecký Rybník Type: Activity Why go: A smaller, quieter pond perfect for a peaceful afternoon. It has a nice sandy bottom for wading. Best for: Avoiding the biggest crowds. Where: Central part of the pond network. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the "Okounová" bus stop. Tip: This is one of the best swimming spots on Bolevec Ponds hiking trail.
6. Name: Třemošenský Rybník Type: Nature Why go: Excellent for birdwatching. You can often see herons and various duck species here. Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts. Where: Near the main road to Třemošná. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Accessible via the green hiking trail. Tip: Bring binoculars for a better view of the nesting islands.
7. Name: Šídlovský Rybník Type: Sight Why go: Features a lovely wooden pier and a very relaxed atmosphere. It is often less windy than the larger ponds. Best for: A quiet picnic. Where: Western edge of the forest. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Take bus 30 to the "Sídliště Košutka" stop and walk down. Tip: The sunset views here are spectacular.
8. Name: Petrovka Nature Reserve Type: Nature Why go: Protects ancient pine trees and unique rock formations. The air here feels incredibly fresh. Best for: Deep forest hiking. Where: North of the main ponds. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the red trail from Bolevec. Tip: Stay on the marked paths to protect the fragile ecosystem.
9. Name: Mikulka Lookout Point Type: Viewpoint Why go: Offers a wide view of the entire pond system and the city of Plzeň. You can see the cathedral spire from here. Best for: Panoramic photos. Where: On a hill just south of the ponds. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: A short uphill walk from the "Bolevecký rybník" tram stop. Tip: Go at golden hour for the best lighting.
10. Name: Nováček Pond Type: Nature Why go: A very small, secluded pond that feels like a hidden gem. It is perfect for meditation. Best for: Solitude seekers. Where: Tucked between Senecký and Třemošenský ponds. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the unmarked forest paths north of Senecký. Tip: It can be muddy after rain, so check the weather.

Planning Your Hike on Bolevec Ponds Nature Trails

Visiting the Bolevec Ponds nature trails is easy from the city center. Most visitors prefer using the efficient tram system. You can learn how to get to Bolevec Ponds from city center in just fifteen minutes. Trams run frequently throughout the day and evening. Check the Visit Plzeň website for current transport schedules.

The trails are open year-round for all visitors. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and active birdlife. Summer is the peak time for swimming and outdoor snacks. Autumn offers stunning colors in the pine and birch forests. Winter is quiet and perfect for brisk, frosty walks. For more details, see our hiking near Plzeň seasons guide.

Pack water and snacks as shops are limited deep in the woods. There are several kiosks near the main beaches during summer. Public toilets are available near Velký Bolevecký Rybník. Most paths are flat and suitable for strollers or bicycles. Always carry a digital map to navigate the intersecting forest trails.

Nearby Extensions and Day Trips

If you have more energy, consider extending your hike. The hikes to Chlum Lookout Tower are a popular choice nearby. This tower offers views of the Plzeň Region and beyond. You can reach it by following the red trail eastward from the ponds. It is a moderate climb but worth the effort.

Another option is heading north toward Krkavec hill. This area features a tall television tower and more rugged terrain. It is a great spot for mountain bikers seeking a challenge. The forest connects all the way to the northern suburbs. You will find fewer people as you move further from the ponds.

For a complete change of pace, head back to the city center. You can explore the Plzeň Region history at the local museums. Or, enjoy a walk through the historical underground tunnels. The transition from nature to urban history is very quick in Plzeň. This makes it a versatile destination for any traveler.