Cold exposure spots
When it comes to locations for cold exposure, the possibilities are endless. Still, it's important to choose places you know well or that have been tested and confirmed safe by others — you don't want any surprises. I'm talking about things like unknown depths, strong currents, or muddy bottoms. There's nothing pleasant about being carried away by a river in freezing water — I'm speaking from experience. Luckily, it turned out fine that time, but ever since, I've been extra careful about where I go for my cold dips.
To give you some inspiration, here are a few of my favorite spots in and around Prague:
Location 1 – Klubovna I. PKO Praha – Modřany
A trusted and very popular spot for swimming in the Vltava River. You'll almost always meet other cold-water enthusiasts here and can exchange tips and experiences. There's often a small campfire burning so you can warm up afterwards. In recent years, cold exposure has become popular among many Czech celebrities — and this is one of the places where you might run into them. Who knows, maybe you'll even walk away with a cool photo with your favorite star!
As for the water itself, it's very clean, and you enter via stone steps. Just a heads-up: the last step before the bottom is a bit deeper, so don't be startled when you "sink" a little more than expected. There can also be a bit of current here, so either stand in place or swim only along the shore — never toward the middle of the river!
Location 2 – Biotope in Lysolaje
Currently my absolute favorite place. Lysolaje is only about a six-minute drive from "Kulaťák" in Dejvice. Be sure to stick to the 30 km/h speed limit after the viaduct — there are speed cameras! On the first intersection, you'll find a cozy pub on the left that serves great food. I usually order something on the way there and pick it up on the way back.
The water in the biotope is typically a bit warmer than in the river. The big advantage here is that it's designed for safe swimming — no risk of hurting your feet on rocks or uneven ground like in wild nature. The bottom slopes gently; near the steps, the water reaches about waist height, and if you go a bit further, it gradually comes up to your shoulders.
Location 3 – Vltava at Štvanice
If you live in central Prague and don't feel like traveling far for a cold plunge, try the Vltava near Štvanice Island. Just turn right off the main road when heading toward Holešovice, and you're there. Watch out for some sharp stones, though.
Location 4 – My dream spot: Mumlavský Waterfall
I can't describe my experience there yet — I haven't gone… but as soon as the river current weakens and the ice starts to melt a bit, I'm planning to head to Harrachov to take a dip at the Mumlavský Waterfall. I don't know a more beautiful or photogenic place in the Czech Republic to swim. Once I make the trip, I'll be happy to share all about it here.