Dářko

Dářko is a national nature reserve and, at the same time, the largest pond on the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, situated next to the village of Radostín in the Žďár nad Sázavou district. The reserve covers nearly 65 hectares of the most extensive forest wetland in the region and has been legally protected since December 1933, making it one of the oldest protected areas in the country.

What makes it special

At the heart of the reserve lies a transitional peatland where unique communities of bog pine (Pinus uliginosa) have survived. Dářko is the only place on the entire Bohemian-Moravian Highlands where this species still grows in natural conditions. The peat layers here reach a depth of up to 8.6 metres, evidence of centuries of uninterrupted wetland formation. Sitting at an elevation of 619–642 metres above sea level, the reserve is a refuge for a wide range of wildlife, including numerous invertebrates, amphibians, birds and mammals tied to the marshy environment.

The great pond of Dářko

Right next to the reserve stretches Velké Dářko, the largest pond on the Highlands, created at the end of the 15th century. It covers roughly 206 hectares, measures about 2.5 km in length and 1.5 km in width, and is quite shallow, with a maximum depth of around four metres — which means the water warms up quickly in summer. Because of its size, locals sometimes call it the "sea of the Highlands." Its sandy shores are framed by the forests and peatlands of the Žďár Hills, creating a striking contrast of water, sand and greenery.

Exploring the area

Educational trails dedicated to nature conservation run around both the pond and the reserve. A circular route around Velké Dářko covers about 9 km and includes 16 information stops that explain the local flora, fauna and history of the area. A shorter trail, the "Dářská rašeliniště" peatland path, runs for roughly 6 km, featuring 12 information panels and two viewpoints overlooking the water and surrounding forest.

In summer, Velké Dářko functions as a popular natural bathing spot — visitors can swim, sail, windsurf or take a boat trip. Outside the swimming season, the area remains primarily a destination for nature walks and birdwatching, thanks to its proximity to the reserve and the well-preserved wild character of the peatlands.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Dářko located? The reserve and pond lie next to the village of Radostín, in the Žďár Hills on the Bohemian-Moravian Highlands, at an elevation of roughly 610–642 metres.

What is bog pine and why is it significant here? It is a rare pine species that grows on peatlands; Dářko is the only place in the region where its natural stands have survived.

Can you swim there? Yes, Velké Dářko is a popular natural bathing area with sandy shores, used in summer for swimming and water sports.

How long is the trail around the pond? The circular route around Velké Dářko is about 9 km long and has 16 educational stops.