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

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
- 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
There is a designated or traditionally used nudist section.
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