Going for a swim or a ride on the steamer?
The Hracholusky Reservoir was built in 1964 and it’s been a highly sought-after recreation spot for locals and foreigners ever since. It lies only 25 km from Pilsen, and two bridges cross the reservoir for trains and cars. The railway bridge, known as Pňovanský, is a steel bridge standing 44 m tall on two isolated stone pillars, which holds a series of tracks ending in Bezdružice. This is the third-largest bridge in the country.
People visit Hracholusky for its magical countryside and breathtaking views of the water. Multiple campsites are found along both embankments, where campers can sleep and enjoy some free time. A few of the most notable include Kemp Keramika on the northern shore, with Radost and Transkemp Hracholusky on the southern side near the dam.
At Transkemp Hracholusky, you’ll find the anchorage ground for the “Plzeň” steamer, which ranks amongst the most popular tourist attractions here. In July and August, you can take one of the regularly scheduled rides on any day besides Monday and Friday. In May, June, and September, the steamer operates only on the weekends. The 20-kilometre-long ride from the Hracholusky Dam to Butov takes about an hour and a half.
A trip to some castle ruins
If you’re not feeling up for the steamer or going for a swim, then you can instead check out the Buben castle ruins on the right side of the Mže. Legends say that the castle got its name (“Buben” meaning “a drum”) because its founder wouldn’t welcome guests with fanfare but rather a whirl of drumbeats. Today, the castle is hidden by the forest, limiting its view. However, the ruins sit in the beautiful nature and are free to enter. You’ll get to discover the expansive courtyard, lined on two sides by high walls, and what remains of the castle palace on the northwest side.
