Velké mechové jezírko

Wielkie Jeziorko Torfowe — known in Czech as Velké mechové jezírko — is a small peat bog lake sitting at 769 metres above sea level, forming the central and most recognisable part of the Rejvíz National Nature Reserve in the Czech Republic. The Polish and Czech names aren't a direct translation of one another, but both point to the same defining feature of the place: a modest body of water framed by a landscape dominated by peat moss.

Where is the lake located?

The lake lies close to the settlement of Rejvíz, which administratively belongs to the town of Zlaté Hory. Its coordinates place it at roughly 50.2197°N, 17.2869°E — a high-altitude spot within Czech territory. The elevation of 769 metres above sea level explains why the surroundings feel more rugged and demanding than a typical lowland body of water.

What is the Rejvíz reserve?

The lake forms the core of the Rejvíz National Nature Reserve. Carrying national reserve status means the site enjoys the strongest level of nature protection available under Czech law, safeguarding a peat bog ecosystem that develops only under the very specific, fragile conditions found in high-elevation wetlands of this kind.

How do visitors reach the lake?

Access to the lake is provided by a dedicated educational trail, built as a boardwalk made of wooden planks. This kind of structure lets visitors move across the bog without stepping directly onto its surface — a common and necessary solution in protected wetlands, where the peat layer is delicate and easily damaged by foot traffic. Walking the boardwalk combines an educational purpose with a practical one: it brings visitors close to the bog environment while keeping their impact on the terrain to a minimum.

What can be seen on site?

On the lake's shore stands a wooden observation platform built specifically for nature watching. It is accompanied by shelters offering visitors a place to rest, along with information boards explaining the character of the site. Together, this modest but functional infrastructure makes Wielkie Jeziorko Torfowe accessible not only to experienced hikers but also to families and anyone looking for a short, quiet excursion — the platform and shelters make it easy to pause and take in the surroundings without ever needing to step onto the unstable bog ground itself.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Wielkie Jeziorko Torfowe located? In the Czech Republic, within the Rejvíz National Nature Reserve, near the settlement of Rejvíz, which belongs to the town of Zlaté Hory, at an elevation of 769 metres above sea level.

What is the lake called in Czech? Velké mechové jezírko.

Can the lake be reached on foot? Yes — a boardwalk-style educational trail made of wooden planks leads directly to it.

What structures stand right by the lake? A wooden observation platform, along with shelters and information boards.

Is the lake a protected area? Yes, it forms the central part of the Rejvíz National Nature Reserve, the highest level of nature protection under Czech law.