Černé jezero

Černé jezero (German: Schwarzer See) is the largest glacial lake in the Šumava mountains and indeed the largest natural lake in the Czech Republic, not counting man-made water bodies. It lies about six kilometres northwest of Železná Ruda, less than a kilometre from the Czech-German border.

The lake formed during the last Ice Age and still feels mysterious today. Its surface covers 18.47 hectares, with a maximum depth of nearly 40 metres. Located at an altitude of 1,008 metres, it is surrounded by steep forested slopes that mirror in the dark water surface and gave the lake its telling name. The quiet scenery of dark water beneath a rocky wall is one of the most powerful natural experiences the Šumava has to offer.

A pleasant hiking trail leads to the lake, and it ranks among the most popular natural destinations in the whole range. The peace of the mountain forests, the proximity of the border and the majestic surroundings make it an ideal spot for relaxation and photography. From here you can continue hiking along the Šumava ridges or to the neighbouring Čertovo jezero (Devil's Lake).

Thanks to its location near Železná Ruda, Černé jezero can easily be combined with exploring other corners of the Šumava as well as the adjacent Bavarian Forest across the border. If you want to experience the lake in its most beautiful light — early morning or at sunset — it's worth staying overnight near Železná Ruda and setting out before the day-trippers arrive.