About this place
Kařezské rybníky is a group of four ponds set in the Hořovice furrow, south of the village of Kařez and west of Kařízek, in the Rokycany district of the Czech Republic. The reserve comprises the ponds Dolejší Kařezský, Hořejší Kařezský, Bechyňský and Němec, together covering close to 65 hectares. Unusually, the Prague–Plzeň railway line (route 170) runs straight through the site, actually cutting across the largest of the ponds.
Why is the area protected?
Kařezské rybníky were declared a nature reserve on 1 April 1992. The main reason for the protection is the ponds' importance as a breeding and stopover site for waterbirds during migration. The area is also listed in the national "Overview of Water and Wetland Biotopes of the Czech Republic" as a wetland of local significance under the Ramsar Convention framework.
What is there to see around the water?
The shorelines are lined with varied reed and marsh vegetation. Around the Bechyňský and Hořejší Kařezský ponds, visitors can find less common plants such as Siberian iris and the broad-leaved marsh orchid. The wet meadows surrounding the ponds serve as breeding grounds for birds and as refuge for amphibians and reptiles.
Which birds can be observed here?
The reserve is a notable spot for birdwatching thanks to its water-linked habitats. Breeding species recorded here include the sedge warbler, the bearded reedling and the jack snipe. During migration, around ten additional species pass through the area regularly, among them several grebe species, the common ringed plover and the little stint. This makes Kařezské rybníky a valued destination for birdwatchers from the Rokycany region and beyond.
How can visitors get there?
Reaching Kařezské rybníky is straightforward. The reserve lies right next to the road connecting the villages of Kařez and Kařízek, making it easy to reach by car or bicycle. An alternative is to arrive by train — both villages have their own stations on railway line 170, within easy walking distance of the ponds. This makes the site a convenient day-trip destination for locals as well as for travelers passing between Prague and Plzeň.
Frequently asked questions
How many ponds make up Kařezské rybníky? Four: Dolejší Kařezský, Hořejší Kařezský, Bechyňský and Němec.
Since when has the area been protected? It was designated a nature reserve on 1 April 1992.
What makes the reserve especially valuable? Above all, its role as a breeding and migratory stopover site for waterbirds, along with habitat for rarer wetland plants such as Siberian iris.
What's the easiest way to get there? By the road linking Kařez and Kařízek, or by train — both villages have stations on railway line 170.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.