A charming walk along the Roklanský stream
West of the village of Modrava lies the romantic valley of the Roklanský stream. The stream rises in the peat bogs on the slopes of Blatný vrch on the Czech side of the Šumava Mountains and is one of the sources of the Vydra River. It is almost 15 km long and traces of prehistoric settlement in the Czech Republic have been found in its basin.
The forgotten valley of Šumava
If you are looking for a place where Šumava still breathes wildly, rustles through deep forests and tells stories from the old days, head to the Roklanský stream (Großer Regensen). This left-bank tributary of the Vydra River originates in inaccessible border marshes and its surroundings are among the most beautiful and peaceful that the national park has to offer.
Ideal route from Modrava
The best starting point is the picturesque mountain village of Modrava. From there, follow the red tourist trail towards Rybárna and the Tříjezerní slať. The path leads along an asphalt surface, which is also ideal for cyclists or strollers.
There and back route
If you do not plan to turn uphill to the Tříjezerní slať, you must return the same way. The length of the route is up to 12 km, depending on how far you go and whether you return the same way. The route is gentle, the climb is gradual and smooth, and is suitable for families with children, seniors or romantics who are in no hurry.
Romance and peace
Along the way, you will be greeted by silence, the scent of peat, and the ever-present sound of crystal, golden water.
Golden pools and wild meanders
The water has a typical dark amber to coffee color, which is caused by the high content of humic acids from the surrounding peatlands. In many places the stream forms beautiful meanders, sand deposits and deep pools in which the Šumava spruces are reflected.
Solitude Fishing
After about 2.5 kilometers you will reach the secluded place Rybárna. The name is not related to the abundance of fish, it comes from the German name Fischerhütte after the name of the local farmer Fischer. In these places the valley opens beautifully into wide, waterlogged meadows, where protected Šumava plants bloom in spring and summer.
Turnoff to the Three Lakes Marsh
While you're in these places, it would be a shame to miss the Three Lakes Bog. A marked turnoff uphill from Roklanský stream leads to it. It is a small but beautiful peat bog with a covered walkway, where you can admire carnivorous sundews, dry peat mosses and typical dark peat lakes up close.
Closed area
After 4.5 km, Roklanský potok branches off from the marked trail, which continues along Javoří potok. To protect the capercaillie, the area towards Roklanská chata and the border is completely closed to the public, which guarantees the stream's peace and cleanliness.
Refreshments in Modrava
The journey ends back in the village of Modrava, which offers refreshments, accommodation, parking and a bus stop.