Bílá voda near Chodov

Bílá voda is a relaxed summer lake north of Chodov in the Karlovy Vary Region. The water area is artificial, but the place has a deeper story: it lies where the former village of Smolnice disappeared during 20th-century mining in the Sokolov brown-coal basin. At the foot of the Smolnice spoil heap, the landscape has gradually turned into a green recreation area used by locals for swimming, walks and easy outdoor sport.

The water quality is monitored during the bathing season and the sandy, gently sloping bottom makes access into the lake comfortable even for smaller children.

Beach and water

The sandy beach is the natural centre of the area. It is good for sunbathing, family picnics and simple lake swimming rather than a busy commercial water park. In summer, a floating jump pontoon is anchored in the deeper part of the lake and is especially popular with older children and teenagers.

Bílá voda is also used as a fishing ground. Anglers should check the current local fishing rules before casting a line.

Active time on dry land

A surfaced recreational loop path runs around the whole lake. The circuit is about 2 km long and suits walkers, runners, cyclists and families who want a short, easy outing.

The most distinctive sports feature is the pump track: a shaped asphalt track with rollers and banked turns for mountain bikes, BMX bikes and scooters. Instead of steady pedalling, riders move by rhythmically shifting body weight, which makes it fun even for less experienced riders.

Outdoor fitness machines stand along the route, and a children's playground on the eastern side of the lake gives younger visitors a clear place to stop and play.

Seasonal facilities

In the summer season the lake area usually offers:

• Refreshments from a seasonal kiosk
• Mobile toilets
• Lockable storage boxes for valuables
• Benches and resting places around the water
• Parking for cars

Entry to the area is free. Seasonal services usually operate from June to September.

Practical information

The lake is accessible all year, but swimming belongs to the warm summer months. No reservation or registration is needed. The area works well for families with children, cyclists, casual swimmers and anyone looking for a free outdoor break close to Chodov.

Directions and contacts

• Website: infocentrum-chodov.webnode.cz
• Phone: +420 352 352 260
• E-mail: infocentrum@mestochodov.cz
• Address: Bílá voda, Chodov, 357 35, Karlovy Vary Region
• GPS: 50.2545, 12.7449

The lake lies about 1.5 km north of the centre of Chodov. You can arrive by car to the nearby parking area, by bike on local paths, or on foot from Chodov railway station in roughly 20 minutes.