Hamerský rybník, also known as Hamer Lake, is a sprawling 50-hectare fishpond tucked into the gentle hills of the Ralsko Uplands. With sandy beaches, forested shores and a large sheltered bay, it's a favourite escape for swimmers, walkers and anyone craving a slower pace.

The surrounding landscape is soft and green, with woods hugging most of the shoreline and open meadows breaking up the scenery. Summer brings crowds to the beaches and swimming area, while autumn paints the forests in gold and winter leaves the whole place quiet and still. On the eastern bank lies a botanically valuable peat bog, a nice detour for nature lovers.

How to get there

• From the village of Hamr na Jezeře — path around the lake, roughly 1-1.5 hours on foot, easy walking
• The road from Hamr to Břevniště runs along the northern shore — a convenient starting point for cyclists

Practical information

• 400-metre sandy beach and seasonal swimming area
• Two campsites near the lake
• No rail connection — reachable by ČSAD bus from Česká Lípa

Near the dam stands a small medieval fortress, later rebuilt into a chateau in the 17th century and later still used as a forester's lodge — today it's a recreational building. Nearby you'll also find the ruins of Děvín and Stohánek castles, plus several protected natural sites worth exploring.