Pastviny Reservoir: swimming, campsites and pedal boats in the Orlické Mountains

Pastviny Reservoir is one of East Bohemia’s classic summer water places. It lies on the Divoká Orlice near Žamberk and combines swimming, campsites, wooded shores, pedal boats, small boats, fishing and views from the dam.

The reservoir is long and narrow, set in a green valley. That gives it a different feeling from flat lowland ponds: more forest, slopes, coves and changing views.

Why visit

Pastviny is ideal if you want swimming with Orlické Mountain scenery. You can swim, rent a pedal boat, stop at the dam, cycle around the area or use it as a base for trips to Žamberk, Letohrad, Nekoř or Zemská brána.

Swimming

The best-known areas include Šlechtův palouk, Panelovka, Pastviny and Nekoř. For a first visit, choose a specific access point rather than navigating only to “Pastviny Reservoir”.

Water quality

Water quality can differ by location. In 2025, Panelovka was reported as better than Šlechtův palouk, where slightly poorer transparency appeared. Check current water quality before swimming.

Campsites and rentals

Šlechtův palouk offers cabins, space for tents and caravans, sanitary facilities, a small kitchen, pub and boat/pedal boat rental.

Summary

Pastviny Reservoir is a beautiful natural swimming destination with campsites, rentals, fishing, dam views and wooded Orlické Mountain surroundings. It is lively in high season, but still has a pleasant green character.