Lipno Magistrale (53 km, 229 m elevation)

Gravel MTB Road

The Lipno Highway (part of Cycle Route No. 33) is an ideal choice for cyclists who want to experience the best of Lake Lipno without major climbing. This route, approximately 53 km long with a gentle ascent of 229 m, takes you along the backbone cycle path that runs along the left bank of the reservoir. It is perfect for recreational riding and offers plenty of places to rest and refresh.

Along the entire Lake Lipno by bike? Why not. Embark on a cycling trip that will take you along the left-bank backbone cycle path, from the very “end” of Lake Lipno to its beginning. The Lipno Highway (Vltava Cycle Path 33) starts in Vyšší Brod, which is a great starting point. From there, you will continue through Devil’s Wall and head directly to the Lake Lipno reservoir, where beautiful views of the water surface and the surrounding landscape await you.

Continue through Frymburk and Černá v Pošumaví, where the path winds along the shore of Lake Lipno, and stop in picturesque Hůrka. Here you have the opportunity to rest and refresh yourself at the Fish Restaurant, where you can enjoy local specialties. Or you can stay directly at Apartments Nad rybníky.

Your last stop will be Nová Pec, from where you can easily get back to our apartments by train or by bike – it’s just a short distance.

🎥 Watch the “Cycling around Lake Lipno” video, where you will see the main sections of the Lipno Highway.

⏱️ Interesting parts in the video:

00:12–03:20 – section Černá v Pošumaví → Nová Pec

05:55–08:40 – section Lipno nad Vltavou → Černá v Pošumaví

The video does not capture the entire route of the Lipno Highway in one shot, but these two parts together form its most attractive sections. You will see shots from a drone and from the bike saddle, so you can easily get an idea of the atmosphere of the entire route.

Try this beautiful cycle path and discover Lake Lipno on a bike! Practical information:

  • Access points: You can join the Lipno Highway in any of the municipalities along its route. Among the most popular are Lipno nad Vltavou, Frymburk, and Horní Planá.
  • Signposting: Cycle route 33 – Bohemian Forest Highway
  • Surface: Most of the route has an asphalt surface, with some reinforced gravel sections in places.
  • Difficulty: Moderately demanding, suitable even for families with children with some cycling experience.
  • Refreshments: There are plenty of restaurants, refreshment stalls, and shops along the route.
  • Accommodation: There is a wide range of accommodation of various categories in the surrounding municipalities.
  • Transport: You can get to the starting points by car, bus, or train. Boat transport is also popular in the summer season.

Tips for the trip:

  • You can divide the trip into several stages and thus enjoy more time exploring the surroundings.
  • Don’t forget your swimsuit and towel if you want to go for a swim.
  • Bring enough fluids and a snack, especially on hot days.

The Lipno Highway is an ideal choice for an active holiday in South Bohemia. It offers a combination of sports and nature. Hop on your bike and set off on a journey around Lake Lipno, you won’t regret it!

The Lipno Highway is part of the Bohemian Forest Highway (cycle route no. 33) – a long-distance route totaling about 205 km that runs across the entire Bohemian Forest from Všeruby to Vyšší Brod. Here we focus on its most popular Lake Lipno section, about 53 km long.

Bohemian Forest Highway – Cycle route no. 33

Entire route: approx. 205 km from Všeruby near the Czech-German border to Vyšší Brod.

The Bohemian Forest Highway is a backbone cycle path that connects the most beautiful parts of the Bohemian Forest. It leads through Železná Ruda, Prášily, Nová Pec, and around the Lake Lipno reservoir. The Lipno Highway described above forms its most visited section – from Vyšší Brod through Lipno nad Vltavou, Frymburk, Černá v Pošumaví to Nová Pec.

Signposting: the entire route is marked with number 33, the surface is predominantly asphalt with some reinforced gravel in places. Medium difficulty, but thanks to its stages, it is well-passable even for families.

If you are thrilled by the Lake Lipno part, you can continue on your bike through the entire Bohemian Forest – endless forests, mountain saddles, and views that are worth it await you.

Length:205 km
Difficulty:Demanding
Climb:2603 m
Marking:Cycle route no. 33

Map of the entire Bohemian Forest Highway (route 33)

📍Where to rest after pedaling on the highway?

After a day in the saddle, you deserve a place where you can put your feet up, recharge, and the kids can entertain themselves. Our family accommodation at Lake Lipno is an ideal base for all cyclists – whether you came for a relaxed ride or a sporting challenge. You will find peace, comfort, and great facilities, including a pool, a playground, and a large garden. And when you want to take a break from the bikes, head out on trips in the area, to the beach, or other experiences for children.

Book your stay, as slots fill up quickly.

We look forward to seeing you!

Connection to other routes