Orlík Reservoir

Orlík Reservoir is a large artificial lake on the Vltava River in central Czech Republic formed by the construction of a dam in the mid-20th century. It is one of the country’s major reservoirs and an important component of river regulation and hydroelectric power generation.

The reservoir provides extensive shoreline and open-water areas used for boating, fishing and other recreational activities; beaches and marinas appear at several points along the shore. Scenic views are commonly taken from the elevated banks near historic sites.

Its construction flooded sections of the Vltava valley and altered local transport and settlement patterns; the dam structure and associated power plant are the key engineered elements creating the reservoir. Orlík Castle sits on a promontory above the water and remains a visible historical landmark on the reservoir’s edge.

The reservoir lies on the Vltava River in central Bohemia, south of Prague and near the town of Orlík nad Vltavou; it is accessible by road from regional centers and is a familiar destination for weekend recreation from Prague and surrounding areas.

• Origin and use: Created by damming the Vltava River in the mid-20th century, it is one of the Czech Republic's largest reservoirs and a major inland recreation area.
• Recreation and viewpoints: The reservoir is popular for boating, fishing and shoreline recreation; viewpoints by Orlík Castle provide panoramic views of the water and valley.

What to See #

• Orlík Dam: The concrete dam and hydroelectric plant at Orlík create the reservoir and regulate the Vltava River; the dam was built in the mid-20th century.
• Orlík Castle: Orlík Castle sits on a promontory above the reservoir and overlooks the flooded Vltava valley; the castle is a prominent historical landmark on the reservoir's shore.