Jezero Ostrá

Jezero Ostrá is a recreational lake on the south-eastern edge of the village of Ostrá, roughly 4 km south-east of Lysá nad Labem, in the Nymburk district of Central Bohemia, Czech Republic. It was formed on the site of a former sand pit and today sits at the end of a dead arm of the Elbe river, fed with clean water through the Hronětický channel. This inflow keeps the water noticeably clearer than a typical river oxbow, which is why the lake has become a popular swimming spot in the region.

What is the swimming area like?

The most suitable sandy beaches for sunbathing and swimming line the northern and western shores, inside the campground area, though they remain freely accessible to all visitors at no charge. The gently sloping sandy entry into the water makes the lake well suited to families with young children. A campground with sanitary facilities and showers operates on site, along with a bar/restaurant, so visitors can spend the whole day by the water without needing to leave for food or supplies.

What else is there to do besides swimming?

Active visitors will find a volleyball court and a rental point for boats and pedal boats, making it possible to explore the lake from the water as well. Younger children have a playground with a slide and swings. The campground area is laid out so a full day can be spent between the beach and water activities without having to leave the lakeside.

What is worth seeing nearby?

Close to Ostrá is Botanicus, a themed garden and park combining traditional crafts with plant cultivation, often visited together with a trip to the lake. The area also has the ruins of Mydlovary castle and a craft village in Ostrá itself, where traditional crafts are demonstrated in a historical setting. These make a good addition to a day spent mostly at the water, especially for families looking for something beyond swimming.

How do you get to Jezero Ostrá?

The lake lies on the south-eastern edge of the village of Ostrá, about 4 km from Lysá nad Labem, making it an easy day-trip destination from Prague or Nymburk. Its proximity to larger towns in the region means getting there by car is straightforward, and the village of Ostrá itself offers food and accommodation options for those planning a longer stay.

Frequently asked questions

Is swimming at Jezero Ostrá free? Yes, the beaches on the northern and western shores are open to everyone free of charge, even though they lie within the campground grounds.

Is there anywhere to eat by the lake? Yes, a bar/restaurant operates on the campground site, so there is no need to leave in search of food.

Is the lake suitable for children? Yes, the entry into the water is gentle and sandy, and the campground has a playground with a slide and swings.

Can you rent water equipment? Yes, a rental point offers boats and pedal boats.

Where does the lake's clean water come from? The lake is fed by water brought in through the Hronětický channel, which sets it apart from a typical Elbe oxbow supplied only by river water.