Borova Lada can be explored on very different scales: a 1 km path leads to Chalupská slať, while the Vltavský Circuit covers 62 km. Other planning considerations include seasonal tours of the fish-rearing ponds, owl watching and cultural history.
Moorland Around Borova Lada
At the end of the path to Chalupská slať, the view opens onto the largest peat bog lake in the Czech Republic. The lake covers 1.2 ha, with peat bog surrounding it. The path starts at the Svinná Lada car park, 1 km from Borova Lada in the direction of Kvilda. The path itself is also 1 km long and easy. The distances refer to two different sections: the distance from Borova Lada to the car park and the length of the path to Chalupská slať. When planning your trip, keep this distinction in mind rather than reading both figures as a single distance.
The figure of 1.2 ha refers to the peat bog lake itself; the surrounding peat bog is a separate part of the landscape. At the end of the path, you can see both: the lake and the peat bog landscape around it.
Fish Farming and Owl Watching
Rybí líheň Borová Lada offers a public guided tour every Tuesday at 10 a.m. in July and August, accompanied by a member of the fish-farming staff. As the schedule may change, check the date before your visit. The fish-rearing ponds are reached via flat grassland with no incline.
In an old quarry near Borová Lada is the Sovinec Borová Lada outdoor aviary, home to owls from the Šumava forests. Through viewing slots, you can observe details of the owls’ lives, such as nesting and feeding. The LES nature trail is suitable for families with young children.
Cultural History and Routes
The Chapel of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, also known as St. Anne’s Chapel, has a clear history. The original brick chapel was dedicated to St. Anne and built in 1860. The chapel and the adjacent Stations of the Cross were demolished in 1956 and restored in 2006.
Knížecí Pláně belongs to the municipality of Borová Lada and is an important junction for hiking and cycling routes. The cemetery and the foundations of the church façade have been restored there.
The 62 km Vltavský Circuit passes through Kvilda, Knížecí Pláně, Strážný, Lenora, Horní Vltavice and Borová Lada before returning to Kvilda. Knížecí Pláně is therefore both part of the circuit and an important junction for hiking and cycling routes. Check trail conditions before setting out.
Length, difficulty and timing are different criteria to consider: a short, easy path leads to Chalupská slať, while the fish-farming tour depends on the day of the week and the time. At 62 km, the Vltavský Circuit is a different kind of route. You can decide first whether you want your trip to focus on a short walk, a longer circuit or a visit at a scheduled time.
Discover more destinations: Dvory U Lažišť, Vrbice, Zbytiny, Repesin, Chlumany, Krtely, Tvrzice, Hracholusky
For the wider travel overview: Prachatice District.
