Divoká Šárka

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The name 'Šárka' is derived from a legendary female warrior in Czech mythology associated with the Maiden's War.

2. 2

   The park contains remnants of an ancient Slavic hill fort dating back to the 8th century located on a promontory above the stream.

3. 3

   The area is home to specialized flora that thrive on its unique dry, south-facing rocky slopes.

4. 4

   Geologically, the valley represents a striking example of erosion in the Ordovician quartzite layers of the Prague Basin.

5. 5

   The Džbán reservoir, located at the edge of the reserve, was created in the 1960s.

Overview

Divoká Šárka is a large nature reserve in Prague 6 featuring a deep rocky gorge carved by the Šárecký Stream. The area spans over 250 hectares and serves as a major recreational zone for hiking, cycling, and rock climbing. The central feature is the Džbán reservoir and the natural outdoor swimming pool known as 'Koupaliště Divoká Šárka'. Steep quartzite cliffs dominate the landscape, providing elevated vantage points above the valley floor. Vegetation ranges from forest thickets to open meadows and xerothermic grasslands. The geological composition includes significant rock formations like Kozí hřbety. It functions as a protected parkland despite its proximity to the city outskirts.

Insider tips

• Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear, as the paths through the gorge are often uneven and rocky.

• Bring a swimsuit during peak summer months to use the natural spring-fed swimming pool, which is colder than standard commercial pools.

• The valley stays significantly cooler than the city center; bring an extra layer even on warm days.