Pastviny Reservoir is one of the most scenic dams in the Czech Sudetes — a peaceful stretch of water nestled in the foothills of the Orlické hory mountains, just 7 km east of Žamberk. Built between 1933 and 1938, this reservoir hides an entire submerged village beneath its calm surface, and is spanned by a striking two-arch reinforced concrete viaduct carrying road II/312. History, engineering and natural beauty come together here in a way that quietly takes your breath away.

The landscape around the reservoir shifts beautifully with the seasons. In summer the sheltered bays — the largest being Studenecká zátoka — are perfect for relaxing by the water, while forested trails along the shores offer easy walks with lovely views across the lake to the wooded hillsides beyond. Autumn wraps everything in warm golden tones and morning mist drifts over the water in an almost magical way. The reservoir is fed by the Divoká Orlice river, which gives the whole area a sense of untamed wilderness even in the calmest weather.

• Žamberk — the reservoir lies approximately 7 km east along road II/312 towards Králíky; easy to reach by car or regional bus.
• Walking trails run along the shoreline and are suitable for families and beginners.

• The hydroelectric power station has been operating since 1938 and runs in flow-through mode since 1964, generating around 5,500 MWh annually.
• The viaduct over the reservoir is open to road traffic and accessible on foot.
• Studenecká zátoka is the most popular bay for summer recreation.

Here is a detail that stays with you: when the dam was constructed, 74 buildings — homes, shops, a school — had to be demolished and now lie quietly on the lake bed beneath the water you are looking at.