Jezero Laka: The Pearl of Šumava

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Discover Jezero Laka, the highest and smallest glacial lake in Šumava National Park, a haven of peace and natural beauty in the Czech Republic.

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Jezero Laka

Jezero Laka, the smallest and highest glacial lake in the Šumava National Park, offers a tranquil escape into nature. Surrounded by dense forests, it's a haven for hikers, photographers, and those seeking serenity in the Czech Republic's stunning landscape.

A brief summary to Jezero Laka

Prášily-Sušice 1, 342 01, CZ

Local tips

Visit early in the morning for a peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunrise views.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trails can be uneven and rocky.
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lake, but remember to take your trash with you.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in the national park can change rapidly.
Consider visiting in the autumn to experience the stunning fall foliage reflected in the lake.

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Getting There

Car

If driving, navigate towards Srní in Šumava National Park. From Srní, follow the signs to Jezero Laka. The road can be narrow and winding. Park in the designated area near the lake. A small parking fee of around 50 CZK may be required. From the parking area, it's a short walk (approximately 1 km) to the lake.
Public Transport

Take a bus from Sušice to Prášily. Check local bus schedules for the latest timings. From Prášily, follow the marked trail signs to Jezero Laka, approximately a 1 km walk from the bus stop. Alternatively, take a bus to Srní from Klatovy or Vimperk. From Srní, walk approximately 3 km to Jezero Laka or hire a local taxi. A single bus fare from Sušice to Prášily costs approximately 89 CZK.
Walking

From Prášily or other nearby villages in Šumava, follow the hiking trails to Jezero Laka. Ensure you have a map or GPS device, as some trails may not be clearly marked. The walk can take from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on your starting point.

Discover more about Jezero Laka

Jezero Laka, nestled within the Šumava National Park in the Czech Republic, is a captivating glacial lake that enchants visitors with its serene beauty. As the smallest and highest of the Šumava lakes, it sits at an elevation of 1,096 meters, boasting an area of 2.7 hectares. The lake's name possibly originates from the Old Czech word for puddle or the Latin word 'lacus'. Unlike other Šumava glacial lakes with rocky bottoms, Laka has a peat base, contributing to its unique ecosystem. Over time, it's gradually becoming overgrown, featuring floating islands that add to its charm. The surrounding area is rich in biodiversity, showcasing deer fern, eared willows, round-leaved sundews and more. Historically, the lake's waters were used to power grinding machines in glassworks in the nearby settlements of Hůrka and Stará Hůrka. The lake's dam was artificially raised in the 19th century to regulate water flow for timber floating and to power machinery. Today, Jezero Laka is a popular destination for hiking and nature walks, with trails offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding forests. The area is particularly magical in the early morning, when mist hangs over the lake, creating a mystical atmosphere.