Bradlec: Volcanic Heights, Quarry Swimming and Far-Reaching Views

Bradlec lies on a rise of volcanic origin above the Jizera Valley. The town combines a striking landscape with water, sporting opportunities and small historic landmarks that can be discovered directly in the townscape. When choosing accommodation, the main question for you is whether you want to focus your stay on nature and swimming, on activity or on the history of the town.

Water Landscapes and Views

A special place in Bradlec is Švardův lom, a flooded former basalt quarry that is used as a natural outdoor swimming pool. A footbridge crosses Švardův lom and connects its two shores designated for recreation. The quarry is therefore not only part of the landscape, but also a clear destination for spending time by the water.

Totův lom also has its own use: sport fishing takes place there. Anyone wishing to compare different ways of spending time by the water will therefore find in Bradlec both a naturally formed swimming location and another place dedicated to fishing. From Bradlec, the view also extends from the České středohoří highlands across the Jizera Mountains to the Krkonoše Mountains. This vista gives the elevated town a broad landscape dimension.

Monuments with Local History

The stone Křížek stands at the intersection of K Oboře and Bezdězská streets and is the oldest monument in Bradlec. It has stood at its present location since the second half of the 18th century. In 1882, the municipality had the Křížek repaired for 228 gulden and 73 kreuzers and then ceremonially consecrated.

There is also a small chapel with a bell tower on Bezdězská Street. It was probably built around 1840; its exact age is not known. The chapel is still used today: when a local resident dies, the death knell is rung there, and death notices are posted on its door. The building thus remains connected with local community life rather than being merely a historic sight.

A war memorial commemorates the 17 residents of Bradlec who fell in the First and Second World Wars. Together with the Křížek and the chapel, it forms a cultural part of the town that does not rely on a large collection of individual sights and is instead revealed through its specific connections to the community.

Sports, Cycle Paths and Open Access

Bradlec’s sports complex includes a football pitch, a beach volleyball court, an asphalt court, a tennis court and two volleyball/nohejbal courts. The complex also includes a sports clubhouse with changing rooms, showers, toilets and a kitchen. The asphalt court is freely accessible at no charge and without a reservation. Alongside the organised sports facilities, there is therefore also an area explicitly available for unrestricted use.

Cycle paths connect Bradlec with Kosmonosy and Mladá Boleslav. This makes it possible to include bicycle trips to both towns in your plans. Your choice of location can therefore be based on your preferred focus: water and landscape, sports on site, cycling or historical discoveries in the immediate townscape.

Traditions Throughout the Year

In Bradlec, the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree together with a St. Nicholas celebration for children has been a long-standing tradition. This custom complements the quieter monuments and places of remembrance with a community event that explicitly includes children.

Choose More Destinations

If you would like to view more destinations for your travel planning in addition to Bradlec, you can also find Čachovice, Chudíř, Dobsin, Bakov Nad Jizerou, Žehrov, Brodce, Kovanec and Strenice.

For the broader travel overview: Mladá Boleslav District.