Radvanecký Pond is best known as a swimming spot near Sloup v Čechách in the Česká Lípa region. With its sandy beach, forested shores and easy access, it's a favourite summer destination for families, swimmers, anglers and windsurfers alike.

The pond sits between the villages of Radvanec and Sloup v Čechách, in the Zákupská hilly country beneath the Lusatian Mountains, fed by the Dobranovský stream. It covers roughly 8.7 hectares. Its eastern bank holds a sandy beach that forms part of the public bathing area, while other shores blend into forest or reach a large peatland to the north. In summer the atmosphere buzzes with holidaymakers, while spring and autumn bring quiet walks and peaceful fishing.

How to get there

• Nový Bor railway station (line 080, Bakov nad Jizerou - Jedlová) - about 3.5 km, flat terrain, easy walk
• ČSAD Česká Lípa bus to Sloup v Čechách, then a short walk along road 268 or local lanes
• Cycle route 3059 and a blue-marked hiking trail from Česká Lípa to Cvikov both pass the pond

Practical information

• The bathing area operates seasonally, with up to 3,000 visitors a day on hot summer days
• Facilities include toilets, boat rental and food stalls
• Sport fishing is allowed with permission from the local anglers' association

Between the world wars, locals called it Swallow Lake, since the sand martins nesting along its banks were known in German as 'bank swallows' - a name still fondly remembered in the area today.