Dlouhý rybník at Cínovec

Dlouhý rybník at Cínovec is a historic natural swimming spot hidden in the Ore Mountains forest, directly on the Czech-Saxon border. The artificial pond was built in 1787 as a water reservoir for processing silver and copper ore from nearby mines. Today it is one of the region's best-loved places for open-air swimming, drawing visitors from both sides of the border.

The pond is about 300 metres long and only around 30 metres wide, which explains its name. Its stony bottom includes reddish sand from the surrounding peat bogs, giving the water a dark amber tone. The peat environment also helps keep the water naturally fresh, so the pond is valued for summer bathing even though the colour may look darker than a lowland lake.

Swimming and activities

The entry into the water is gradual, without sudden drop-offs, which makes the pond approachable for families with children. Even on hot days, expect cooler mountain water than in lowland pools; it is part of the charm, but warm layers after swimming are a good idea.

A designated naturist beach is located at the far end of the pond. The rest of the shore is used for conventional swimming and relaxing by the water.

The area is also good for a longer day outdoors. Dlouhý rybník lies on the long-distance E3 cycle route and close to the international mountain trail linking Krupka, Cínovec and Dubí across the Czech and Saxon sides of the Ore Mountains. The surrounding forests are popular for walks, cycling and mushroom picking, and a small waterfall can be reached on the German side in roughly a 40-minute walk.

Nearby, the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is one of the landmarks of the Cínovec landscape. The village itself carries a deep mining story, from historic ore processing to today's interest in the large lithium deposits beneath Cínovec.

Practical information

Access is free and the pond is open year-round without fixed opening hours. Summer days can be busy and the parking area near the pond often fills by midday, so arrive early or come by bike if you can.

Allow about 2-3 hours for a relaxed swim and a short walk. The water is cooler than in the lowlands, especially for children, so pack dry and warm clothing for after bathing.

Directions and contacts

• Address: Cínovec, 415 01 Dubí
• GPS: 50.7333, 13.7777
• Managed by: Město Dubí, Ruská 264, 417 01 Dubí
• Phone: +420 417 571 041
• E-mail: info@mesto-dubi.cz
• Public transport: seasonal buses from Teplice or Dubí to the Cínovec stop