Rybník Starý u Líchov

Rybník Starý u Líchov is a small but ecologically valuable pond located near the village of Líchovy in the Central Bohemian Region (Středočeský kraj) of the Czech Republic, not far from Příbram. The pond sits at the source of the Sečský stream and represents the kind of quiet, off-the-beaten-path spot that rewards visitors more interested in nature and stillness than crowded landmarks.

Why is this pond protected?

Starý rybník was declared a protected area by the regional authorities of the Central Bohemian Region. The main reason behind this designation is the presence of a population of the European fire-bellied toad (Bombina bombina), a species covered by protection under the EU's Natura 2000 network. Because of this, the site is subject to conservation rules under European nature-protection legislation, and regional authorities work to maintain suitable habitat conditions here, including water levels, shoreline vegetation, and the overall state of the aquatic ecosystem.

Besides the fire-bellied toad, the area around the pond is also home to other reptiles and amphibians, including common lizards and viviparous lizards, which benefit from the mix of habitats found here — open water, reed-fringed banks, and drier slopes and field margins surrounding the pond.

What should you know before visiting?

Rybník Starý is not a developed tourist site with parking lots or information boards at every turn — it is first and foremost a nature conservation area whose value lies in its preserved, natural character. Visitors should keep in mind that the site is legally protected, so it's important to stay on existing paths, avoid entering the water, and refrain from disturbing wildlife, particularly during the amphibian breeding season in spring and early summer.

For nature photographers and birdwatchers, the surroundings of the pond can make for an interesting destination — the calm water surface and the vegetation around it attract a variety of wildlife typical of small ponds in the rural landscape of Central Bohemia.

How to get there?

The pond lies near the village of Líchovy, in a region close to Příbram. The most practical way to reach it is by car to the nearest village, followed by a short walk to the pond itself. Given the character of the terrain, sturdy footwear is recommended, especially after rainfall, when the surrounding paths can become muddy.

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Rybník Starý u Líchov? No — as a protected area established to safeguard the fire-bellied toad population, the pond is not intended for water recreation. Protecting the species' habitat is the priority here.

What species is protected at this site? The main protected species is the fire-bellied toad (Bombina bombina), included in the EU's Natura 2000 network. Common lizards and viviparous lizards are also found in the surrounding area.

When is the best time to visit? Spring and early summer, the amphibian breeding season, make for interesting wildlife observation, though visitors should be especially careful not to disturb the animals during this period.

Is there tourist infrastructure on site? There is no extensive tourist infrastructure — this is primarily a nature conservation area rather than a conventional tourist attraction with service facilities.