Summer temperatures are soaring – it’s time for a swim

It’s here – one of the loveliest times of the year: summer! Just imagine it: long days made even more enjoyable by summer temperatures, refreshing drinks, picnics and endless sunsets late into the evening. Swimming is undoubtedly an essential part of such a summer. Whether you prefer swimming pools with water slides, wellness centres with hot tubs, or, conversely, swimming in the midst of unspoilt nature far from civilisation, there’s something for everyone in Bohemian Switzerland.

Below, you’ll find our favourite spots, which are sure not to disappoint.

In the eastern part of Bohemian Switzerland, about a 10-minute drive from Krásná Lípa, you’ll find the Kyjov Dam. From there, it’s about a quarter of an hour’s walk to the famous Kyjov Rock Trail, which forms part of one of the oldest nature trails in the country – the Kögler Trail. A stroll along the rock trail combined with a swim makes for an ideal, easy-going day out on a sweltering summer’s day. The narrow rocky gorges of the Kyjov Valley or the amphitheatre known as the ‘Treasury’ offer a pleasant respite from the heat. And don’t forget to stop off at the Kyjov Terrace and cool off with a cold beer from Falkenštejn.

Right in the heart of the national park, in the village of Jetřichovice, you’ll find the local swimming pool and campsite. Within sight of the Jetřichovice Rocks and the famous Mariina vyhlídka viewpoint, you’ll find a fully equipped lido where you can enjoy a refreshing dip on hot summer days. At the campsite, you can pitch a tent, stay in a cabin or arrive in your own campervan. If you prefer hotels, try Hotel Bellevue.

For our next recommendation, we must head further north to the Šluknov Hook. On the outskirts of the village of Mikulášovice, within sight of the prominent Tanečnice observation tower, lies a natural swimming pool with a history dating back to the period following the First World War. There is a safe paddling pool for children and, for the more adventurous, a five-metre diving board. Sporty visitors can make use of the multi-purpose sports ground and tennis courts. Children can pass the time at the children’s playground. If you get peckish, refreshments are available on site. There are also toilets and changing rooms. For those who’d like to spend several days here, there are cottages nearby.

Another recommendation is for the more adventurous. Further north, near the village of Lipová, there is a flooded quarry, formerly used for mining high-quality granite. Nothing is mined here today, and the abandoned quarry has become a refuge from the summer heat, as the ubiquitous granite, combined with the water, creates a pleasant climate. You can combine a visit to the swimming spot with a visit to the half-timbered house in Lipová, or the nearby Jáchym Hill with its chapel and Calvary.

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However, natural swimming spots aren’t for everyone. That’s why we also recommend a stop in Děčín or in neighbouring Saxony at Bad Schandau.

Děčín has become a modern city in recent years, with new cafés, restaurants and venues for young people springing up. As well as refined cuisine, you’ll also find one of the largest water parks in the region here. Children can have fun on the water slides whilst parents relax in the spa and hot tubs. There are also several outdoor pools, swimming lanes for competitive swimmers, and an aqua hotel.

The final place you shouldn’t miss is situated in the beautiful spa town of Bad Schandau on the banks of the Elbe. Beneath the Schrammsteine rock formations lies Toskana Therme. This modern thermal spa offers everything you could wish for in terms of pleasure and relaxation. You can choose from a wide range of pools, as well as top-class wellness facilities. The complex also includes a five-star hotel.

There are plenty of places to swim here. Why not try the pond at Hotel Ostrov (featured photo), the Olešské ponds, the thermal swimming pool in Benešov nad Ploučnicí, or the swimming pool in Česká Kamenice.