Natural swimmingFeatured

Lake Lhota: sandy natural swimming in pine woods near Prague

Lake Lhota is one of the best-known natural swimming spots near Prague, with clear water, sandy and grassy beaches, pine shade, a nudist beach, sports facilities, refreshments and a large car park.

Reading time:
6 min read
Verified on:
14/05/2026
Country:
Czechia
Region:
Prague and Central Bohemia
Lake Lhota near Stará Boleslav with sandy banks and pine trees
Photo: Jezero Lhota 2023-09-06 04.jpg by Hubert Kororo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Quick overview

Place type
natural swimming
Recommended stay
1–6 hours
Crowds
very high in peak season
Opening hours
Check before visiting according to the current season and operator.
Booking recommended
No
Tickets online only
No
Nudist beach
Yes

There is a designated or traditionally used nudist section.

Water quality
The official website states excellent water quality, continuous monitoring and ultrasonic technology on a solar-powered floating device.
Best time
summer morning, late afternoon
Avoid if possible
hot weekend midday

Lake Lhota is a classic summer escape near Prague: clear water, sand, pine trees and no need to drive half the day. It lies near the village of Lhota close to Stará Boleslav and was created by flooding a former sand quarry.

It is not a wild free-access lake. It is a paid swimming area with opening hours, rules, admission, parking, refreshments, facilities and sports. That mix works well: you still get a natural-swimming feel, but with more comfort.

Why visit

Lhota’s biggest strengths are water and setting. Sandy and grassy banks, pine trees and mature woodland provide shade in hot weather. That makes it more comfortable than many open reclaimed lakes.

The area offers swimming, sunbathing, beach volleyball, tennis, minigolf, paddleboards, children’s equipment and a traditional nudist beach along the eastern shore.

Swimming and atmosphere

The lake is popular for clear water and sandy banks. In high season, especially on hot weekends, expect plenty of people from Prague and the surrounding area.

For a calmer visit, come in the morning, on a weekday or later in the afternoon. Entry and parking after 16:00 are cheaper.

Facilities, children and nudist beach

Facilities around the lake include toilets, showers, changing rooms, refreshments, children’s equipment and lockers. The nudist beach has its own section, toilet and refreshments.

Watch out for

In season, dogs, camping, bivouacking, open fires and grilling are prohibited. Parking in the village of Lhota is forbidden; use the official car park only.

Summary

Lake Lhota is one of the strongest natural swimming choices within reach of Prague: clean water, sandy banks, pine shade, services, a large car park and a traditional nudist beach.

Sources and verification

Sources used to verify prices, opening details, rules, and practical information.

Information verified on: 14/05/2026