Vrbenské rybníky (Vrbno Ponds) - Hiking for everyone

The Vrbenské rybníky Nature Reserve is located within easy reach, approximately 6 km north-west of the centre of České Budějovice. Covering an area of 246 hectares, the reserve is unique for its rich flora and fauna. Four large ponds and extensive areas of adjacent wetlands and meadows provide excellent conditions for waterfowl, both for nesting and as a stopover on their way to their wintering grounds. You can observe the fauna and flora from the new birdwatching hide. You can find the exact location here https://mapy.cz/s/luvubulela

The area is also interesting for its abundance of butterfly species not found anywhere else in the Czech Republic. The nature trail, approximately 4 km long with 10 stops, takes visitors along the pond dams and provides an insight into the local flora and fauna; it is also suitable for wheelchair users. A popular spot for walkers and cyclists to rest near the Vrbenské ponds is the microbrewery complex. 

Nature lovers can now play a fun and educational game whilst out walking using the Ptactvo Vrbenských rybníků app. The user-friendly app is available to download for free on Google Play, link: https://1url.cz/HK0PB,&for iOS here.

Vrbenské ponds for wheelchair users

The starting point is at the entrance to the Arpida social centre. The route is 5.6 km long, but it is possible to shorten the circuit to 3 km with a total elevation gain of 15 m. Along the route there are information panels for the ‘Along the Vrbenské Ponds Dam’ nature trail and panels about the KČT and the Arpida Centre. A rest area has been built along the route – seating for accompanying persons where they can watch birds above the water’s surface.The route runs mainly along paved roads with minimal or no traffic. Part of the route follows pavements alongside a road with normal traffic. The surface is sandy and gravelly, paved, and puddles may form after rain. The route is suitable for all types of wheelchairs with an accompanying person. The route’s partners are: the Czech Tourist Club, the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, the Sectoral Health Insurance Company for Employees of Banks, Insurance Companies and the Banking Sector, Lesy ČR s.p., Arpida, and the Rehabilitation Centre in České Budějovice. The project was implemented by BO CO spol. s r.o., Ústí nad Orlicí. An information map with a route map and description has been published for this route. In České Budějovice, it is available at the reception of the South Bohemian Regional Authority, at the reception of Arpida, and at the České Budějovice Tourist Information Centre.