Devil's Lake
Čertovo jezero
A glacial lake in the Šumava mountains, shrouded in ancient legends, unique for draining into the Danube basin, and part of a National Nature Reserve. It offers a scenic, challenging hike.

📜 Glacial lake in Šumava mountains, part of National Nature Reserve established in 1911.
🔍 Unique as only Šumava lake draining into Danube basin to Black Sea.
😈 Shrouded in ancient legends of a devil and strange figures emerging.

Why Go

🌊 Discover a mysterious glacial lake at 1030m altitude, 9.7ha area, 36m max depth.
🚶‍♀️ Experience a scenic, challenging hike through a National Nature Reserve.
🗺️ Stand at the main European watershed between Elbe and Danube basins.
❄️ Witness avalanches on lake walls, one of few Šumava locations.
🧐 Observe unique "pulsating" outflow phenomenon caused by winds.

Why Avoid

⚠️ Access is not easy, unsuitable for cyclists who often need to carry bikes.
⛰️ Most common route involves a steep, rocky path.

Cost

💰 Admission is free.

Tips

⏱️ Suggested visit time is 1.5 hours.
🅿️ Parking at Špičácké sedlo, follow yellow trail for 2.5 km.