The lake's water is naturally acidic, which historically limited fish populations.
The granite rock face above the lake, known as the Stifter Memorial, was completed in 1877.
Plešné Lake is one of only five glacial lakes located in the Šumava mountain range.
During the Cold War, the lake was situated in a restricted military zone and was inaccessible to the general public.
The lake's name is derived from the mountain Plechý, which refers to the 'bald' or bare summit of the mountain.
Significant efforts were made in the 1990s to restore the lake's water chemistry after it was heavily affected by acid rain in the 20th century.
Plešné Lake is a glacial cirque lake located in the Šumava National Park in the Czech Republic, situated at an altitude of 1,090 meters. The lake occupies an area of approximately 4.2 hectares and reaches a maximum depth of 18 meters. It is nestled directly below the northeastern slope of the mountain Plechý, which is the highest peak of the Bohemian Forest. A massive, 260-meter-high granite wall creates a dramatic backdrop for the water basin. A stone monument dedicated to the writer Adalbert Stifter stands on a high rock projection overlooking the lake. The area is part of the protected virgin forest zone of the Boubín forest ecosystem. Glacial activity carved the basin during the last ice age, leaving behind large moraine deposits. The lake remains a focal point for hikers traversing the border regions of the Czech Republic and Austria.
The elevated rock viewing platform near the Adalbert Stifter monument for a panoramic perspective of the lake.
Wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots as the paths leading to the lake feature uneven rocky terrain.
Carry sufficient water and snacks, as there are no food vendors or facilities directly at the shoreline.
Check local weather forecasts before departing, as mountain conditions at 1,000+ meters can change rapidly.
Attempting to swim or enter the water, as it is a protected site; wearing inappropriate footwear like sandals.
Stick to marked trails to protect the fragile alpine vegetation and strictly follow 'Leave No Trace' principles.
