Top 4 Lakes in Chko Jeseníky

Chko Jeseníky is primarily known for its unique natural features like peat bogs, streams, and waterfalls, rather than large traditional natural lakes. The most notable natural 'lake' is the Velké Mechové Lake, which is a peat bog lake. The region also features significant artificial water bodies, such as the Dlouhé Stráně Reservoir, part of a pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant.

Velké Mechové Lake (Great Moss Lake) is the largest peat bog lake in the Jeseníky Mountains, located within the Rejvíz National Nature Reserve. It's a captivating natural wonder with peat layers up to 3 meters thick. Visitors can explore it via a well-maintained nature trail with boardwalks, offering a glimpse into its unique ecosystem.

Yes, there is an entrance fee for Velké Mechové Lake. It costs CZK 30 for adults and CZK 20 for children during certain months.

The peat bog ecosystem around Velké Mechové Lake supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. You can find ancient bog pines, sphagnum moss, and rare plants like the carnivorous round-leaved sundew. It's also home to various rare dragonflies, blueberry butterflies, and amphibians like newts.

Yes, in addition to Velké Mechové Lake, there is also a smaller, inaccessible peat bog lake located nearby in the Rejvíz area.

The Dlouhé Stráně Reservoir is a significant man-made lake that serves as the upper reservoir for a pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant. Located at an altitude of 1350 meters, it's an impressive engineering feat and was voted a significant wonder of the Czech Republic in 2005.

Absolutely. For a spectacular panoramic view of the Dlouhé Stráně Reservoir and its lower dam, visit the View of Dlouhé Stráně Reservoir from Kamzík. This viewpoint offers a clear perspective of the entire power plant complex.

Yes, Velké Mechové Lake is considered family-friendly due to its accessible nature trail with boardwalks. Another option is Klaus Pod Zvoničkou, a reconstructed historical reservoir with covered seating, offering a picturesque and calm spot for families.

The Chko Jeseníky region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and mountaineering routes nearby. For detailed information on trails, check out guides like Hiking in Chko Jeseníky, Mountain Hikes in Chko Jeseníky, and Waterfall hikes in Chko Jeseníky.

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For instance, Velké Mechové Lake has a dedicated nature trail with boardwalks. For broader hiking options in the region, including routes near water bodies, explore guides such as Hiking in Chko Jeseníky.

The best time to visit the lakes and the Chko Jeseníky region generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the peat bogs. Autumn brings beautiful fall foliage. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, suitable for winter hiking, though accessibility to some areas might be limited.

Wild swimming is generally not permitted in the protected natural areas like Velké Mechové Lake due to its delicate ecosystem. For the Dlouhé Stráně Reservoir, as it's part of a hydroelectric power plant, swimming is also not allowed for safety reasons.

Velké Mechové Lake is accessible via a well-maintained nature trail with boardwalks that starts from the village of Rejvíz. You can find more detailed information about access and the reserve at ok-tourism.cz.

Yes, Klaus Pod Zvoničkou is a reconstructed historical reservoir (klaus) on the Splavský potok. It was previously used to increase water flow for floating wood, and its picturesque setting offers a glimpse into the region's past industrial heritage.