Padrť ponds

The Upper and Lower Padrť ponds (Hořejší and Dolejší Padrťský rybník) lie in an upland basin in the central Brdy hills, about 15 km from Orlov. The upper pond covers around 80 hectares and the smaller lower one around 38 hectares. The open land around them is one of the finest treeless areas in the Brdy hills and is well suited to a longer walk or bike ride.

What you will see

A 13 km nature trail with 13 stops runs around the ponds. Small plaques on stones describe the local wildlife and plants, while large panels recall the lost villages of Padrť, Přední and Zadní Záběhlá and Kolvín. By the water you may spot a black stork, a grey heron or a white-tailed eagle, and otters live here too.

A bit of history

The ponds were built in the 16th century to hold water for floating timber to the ironworks. Later they became a popular summer resort. In the 1950s the military area was expanded and the village of Padrť below the ponds was evacuated and demolished. The area reopened to the public in 2008 and has been part of the Brdy Protected Landscape Area since 2016.

Good to know

The ponds are a drinking water reservoir, so swimming is not allowed. Cyclists can follow the cycle path from Trokavec, and walkers can take the red-marked trail from Tři Trubky or Míšov. Allow about five hours to walk the whole nature trail. Mobile signal is weak in places.