Olšina Educational Trail (7.3 km)

Stroller: ✅  |  Dog: ✅

Olšina Pond and nature trail – a trip tip from Hůrka

When we feel like a peaceful walk just a short distance from Hůrka, we often head to Olšina Pond. It is only a few minutes from us by car, bike or on cross-country skis. For example, for lunch – the local restaurant at the visitor center is nice and open all year round.

The local Olšina nature trail will guide you through beautiful Šumava nature, wetlands, and forests. The dam can also be comfortably reached by train – get off at the Hodňov stop, from where it is not far to the trail.

Olšina Pond

Olšina Pond is the highest-altitude breeding pond in Bohemia, and its surroundings offer a unique combination of Šumava nature – wetlands, peat bogs, mixed forests, and meadows. This makes it a perfect place for bird watching or a quiet walk off the main tourist routes.

It is an ideal destination for a family trip, especially with smaller children. Formerly, the entire area was part of the Boletice military area, and so the nature here has remained beautifully preserved – with original peat bogs and forests. One of those trips at Lake Lipno that are definitely worth it.

Olšina Nature Trail

The Olšina nature trail, opened in 2023, is a great tip for a family trip into nature. The 7.3 km route leads around Olšina Pond and offers the opportunity to get to know the diverse flora and fauna of this area.

What awaits you on the trail?

• Natural beauty: The trail leads through a picturesque landscape with wetlands, peat bogs, and forests, where you can admire rare species of plants and animals.
• Information panels: Information panels are located along the route, introducing you to the history, geology, fauna, and flora of this area.
• Relaxing walk: The route is easy and suitable for families with children and seniors. Part of the trail is also accessible to wheelchair users.

Practical information:

• Route length: 7.3 km
• Duration: approx. 2–2.5 hours
• Accessibility: The trail is accessible all year round, but some sections may be more difficult to pass in winter.
• Parking: Parking is possible near the trail.
• Refreshments: A restaurant and places to rest can be found nearby.

The Olšina nature trail is open year-round and entry is free.

Olšina Visitor Center

By Olšina Pond there is a visitor center, which is an ideal place to start or end a walk along the nature trail. The center offers interactive information panels and exhibitions dedicated to Šumava nature, history, and interesting facts of the region. Visitors will learn here about wetlands, peat bogs, forest ecosystems, as well as the history of the village of Olšina and its surroundings.

For families with children, there is an educational corner, worksheets, and an outdoor exhibition of living nature. There is also outdoor seating, information about nature trail routes, trip tips, rest options, and practical advice for a relaxing visit. The center is open all year round and provides comprehensive service for tourists and schools wanting to discover the beauties of the Šumava Mountains.

Adventure Golf directly on site

After walking the trail, do you still feel like having a bit of fun? Directly at Resort Olšina (by the visitor center), a new Adventure Golf course has been built. It is a perfect way to spice up the trip for the whole family.

Find out everything about the course, prices, and photos in our article: Adventure Golf Olšina and other fun for kids.

Olšina Fishing Bastion – permanent exhibition

In the historical building of the Fishing Bastion from the 15th century, a permanent exhibition is prepared, dedicated to the history of the village of Olšina, fishing, and forestry. Part of the exhibition is also an overview of the history and present of the Military Forests and Estates. A film screening about old crafts and timber floating on the Schwarzenberg Canal is also prepared for visitors. Entry is limited, so it is good to check current operating hours in advance.

If you have enough energy, also explore other trips around Lake Lipno.

Click to see more photos from Olšina

🖼️ Photo gallery from trips to Olšina

📍Where to rest after a trip to Olšina?

After a full day in nature, you deserve a place where you can truly relax. Our comfortable accommodation for families with children at Lake Lipno is an ideal base for exploring the surroundings – whether you are heading out on a hike, visiting monuments or a trip with children. Peace, comfort, a large garden, pool, playground, and a fish restaurant await you, where you can truly enjoy a meal after your return.

And what about the children? They definitely won’t be bored – there are plenty of cycle paths, beaches and other experiences for children nearby. And when you want to take them fishing, you can go straight to the Hůrka trout farm right behind the apartment fence.

Book your stay while there is still a choice.
We look forward to seeing you!