Branka: Waterfalls, Lake and Circular Route

Branka brings together a river landscape, waterfalls, a lake and an unusual local history in a small area. The settlement is the first on the Czech side through which the Mže flows. In the centre, the river flows into Olšový rybník, which covers eight hectares. This gives Branka a clear scenic focal point for anyone wishing to combine experiences in nature with regional history and active days.

Circular Route with Eleven Stops

A special way to discover Branka and its surroundings is the Branka educational and cycle tourism route. The circular route is 17 kilometres long, begins in Branka and ends there as well. In total, it leads to eleven stops. The route is suitable for hikers, cyclists and cross-country skiers. For your planning, the closed loop is particularly useful: the start and finish are in the same place, allowing you to use Branka as a fixed base for this tour.

Olšový rybník and the Mže

Olšový rybník defines the character of the settlement not only through its size. A small beach is located on its northern shore and is also suitable for bathing with small children. Fishing is possible in the pond. This allows different day plans to be combined: while the route enables active exploration, Olšový rybník offers a place for time by the water and a quieter break. The Mže flows through Branka and reaches the pond in the centre of the settlement.

Waterfalls in a Wooded Valley

Between Branka and Horní Výšina, the Mže crosses stone cascades in a wooded valley and forms several waterfalls. The best-known one bears the name Branka. The waterfalls on the Mže near Branka are considered the only waterfalls in Český les. This scenic contrast also makes the place interesting if, during your stay, you want to experience not just a single excursion destination but different forms of nature.

Orthodox Tradition and Local History

The cultural features include the consecrated Orthodox chapel, which serves the local Orthodox residents. The chapel “Kaple Zesnutí přesvaté Bohorodice” is dedicated to the Dormition of the Mother of God. The history of the settlement also goes back a long way: Branka was first mentioned in writing in 1663, while the current name has been used since 1945. The local past also includes the Adler family button factory, where mother-of-pearl was processed into buttons.

Getting There and Choosing a Location

Branka has the “Halže, Branka” bus stop. There is a direct bus connection from Tachov, with a journey time of 30 minutes. If you are looking for accommodation in Branka, you can choose a place where the circular route, river, pond, waterfalls and cultural history come together to create a varied stay.

To the higher-level travel overview: Halže.