Bida: Natural Swimming, Forest Trails and Mining History

Bida brings together nature experiences, water and local history to create a diverse travel experience. Koupaliště Borek natural swimming area, the trails around Mojský les, Orty Nature Monument and traces of the area’s former mining and railway history each offer a different focus. This makes it possible to combine a day of swimming, forest walks and historical discoveries in a single stay. The themes range from relaxation by the water to visible traces of former uses, offering different perspectives on the trip.

Water Experience at Koupaliště Borek

Koupaliště Borek natural swimming area is located on U Studánky Street in Borek, right next to Mojský les and the Kyselá voda stream. Water quality is maintained by biological filter lagoons without chemical additives. The swimming area includes a paddling pool and a children’s playground. For older visitors, there is a natural pool up to 3.6 metres deep, a bathing jetty and a diving tower. This provides several different areas for a day of swimming, without confusing the character of a natural swimming area with that of a traditional swimming pool. Water, play and exercise can all be enjoyed in the same setting.

Forest Trails and Protected Landscape

At the edge of the Mojský les forest complex, near the terminus, there are trails for hiking. The forest complements time by the water with another form of exploration and leads into a landscape that is interesting for more than just swimming. The natural area also includes Orty Nature Monument, which covers the cadastral area of Borek u Českých Budějovic. Those interested in landscapes and regional features will encounter both forest trails and an area shaped by geological and historical influences.

Mining History and Local Details

Borek originally developed as a mining settlement. The Orty mine complex covers an area of approximately 12 hectares and includes underground passages with a total length of more than 5.6 kilometres. This chapter of the local history is complemented by preserved details in the village. The former Schwarzenberg inn for travellers, No. 1, is a Neoclassical building dating from 1815 to 1816. Near the municipal office there is also a simple wooden bell tower made of two posts.

Traces of the Forest Railway

The trails around Borek also preserve historical connections. Forest paths with embankments and cuttings are reminders of the former steam forest railway. After the devastating storm of 1916, it was built to clear windthrow timber and operated until approximately 1921. While hiking, the shapes of the terrain therefore connect with the forest’s former use. The mining and railway history is not limited to individual buildings, but can also be seen in the landscape.

Planning Your Stay

Borek is served by the public transport bus routes from České Budějovice. Bus connections to Borek are integrated into a unified fare zone. When planning your stay, you can consider the natural swimming area, forest trails and historical local details as different focal points. Bida therefore offers concrete starting points for days by the water, walks in the forest and exploring the region’s past.

Discover More Destinations

You can also explore Modrá Hůrka, Duben, Betschitz, Dubiken, Olešnice U Českých Budějovic, Habří, Gutwasser and Julienhain.

For the higher-level travel overview: Okres České Budějovice.