Barbora Reservoir is an artificial lake tucked into the Most Basin, a surprising oasis of clear blue water born from a former coal mine. It's a favorite summer escape for locals from the Teplice and Duchcov regions, and once you see the water, you'll understand why.

The surrounding landscape carries the marks of its industrial past, softened now by greenery reclaiming the old quarry edges. In summer the lake buzzes with sailboats and windsurfers gliding across its surface, while swimmers and divers enjoy some of the clearest water in the region. In cooler months the area quiets down considerably, offering a peaceful, almost meditative walk around the shoreline with far fewer visitors.

How to get there

• From the village of Oldřichov - short and easy approach, suitable for families
• From the town of Košťany - convenient access from the northeastern side of the lake

Practical information

• Excellent water clarity, popular training spot for scuba divers
• Used for sailing and windsurfing
• Depth reaches up to 60 metres

Fun fact: the lake formed in the 1970s when the abandoned open-pit mine flooded naturally with mine water, later supplemented by water diverted from the nearby Bouřlivec stream, creating today's 55-hectare recreational lake.