Písník Pod radary

Písník Pod radary is a flooded former gravel pit located just under half a kilometer south of the center of the village of Rusek, within the municipality of Hradec Králové. Covering roughly 3.4 hectares, the lake formed after sand and gravel extraction ended in the late 20th century, and the site has since grown into one of the more popular informal recreation spots near the city.

Where exactly is Písník Pod radary?

The lake sits between the village of Rusek and Hradec Králové Airport – a location that explains its name, since "Pod radary" translates roughly to "beneath the radars," a nod to the nearby airport infrastructure. Tucked away from the main tourist routes, it's valued precisely for its quiet, low-key character compared to larger, busier swimming spots in the region.

What can visitors do here?

In summer, Písník Pod radary functions as an informal swimming spot, drawing residents of Hradec Králové and the surrounding area on hot days. Water in former gravel-pit lakes tends to be clearer than in natural ponds, which adds to the appeal for swimmers.

The lake also serves as an angling ground, managed by the East Bohemian regional branch of the Czech Fishing Association (Český rybářský svaz) as a non-trout fishing territory not subject to a lottery draw. The total area of the fishing ground covers about 47,854 square meters. Anglers need a valid regional permit to fish here.

What does the surrounding area look like?

The shores of Písník Pod radary are overgrown with reeds, giving the site a natural, slightly wild character while providing habitat for waterfowl and other species tied to wetland environments. Unlike regulated, paved municipal swimming areas, the surroundings retain the rustic look typical of former gravel-extraction lakes.

Who is this place suited for?

Písník Pod radary works best for people looking for a quiet spot by the water away from crowds – families with children who appreciate the calm, anglers after a non-lottery fishing ground close to the city, and Hradec Králové residents wanting to cool off in summer without traveling far. Because of the proximity to the airport, visitors should expect noise from planes taking off and landing – a drawback for some, but an interesting detail tied to the site's history for others.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Písník Pod radary? Yes, in summer the lake is commonly used as an informal swimming spot by residents of Hradec Králové and the surrounding area.

Is fishing allowed here? Yes, the lake is an angling ground managed by the East Bohemian regional branch of the Czech Fishing Association. A valid regional fishing permit is required.

How do you get to Písník Pod radary? The lake lies about 0.5 km south of the center of Rusek village, between Rusek and Hradec Králové Airport, a few kilometers from the center of Hradec Králové itself.

Where does the name come from? The name "Pod radary" ("beneath the radars") refers to the lake's proximity to Hradec Králové Airport infrastructure.

Is the lake natural? No – Písník Pod radary is an artificial water body that formed when a former sand and gravel pit flooded after extraction ended in the late 20th century.