Lipno nad Vltavou is a cyclist’s paradise. It’s a great place nejste only for experienced cyclists, but especially for families with children and anyone who wants to enjoy the Šumava countryside at a leisurely pace. Over 130 km of marked bike trails, the legendary loop around the entire reservoir, safe children’s trails, and comfortable bike buses make Lipno one of the best-equipped cycling destinations in the Czech Republic.
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Why is Lipno a cyclist's paradise?
The Lipno bike trails offer something you don’t often find in the Czech Republic: flat and gently rolling routes right along the water. While most cycling destinations in the Šumava Mountains are exclusively for experienced athletes who can handle steep climbs, the Lipno region offers routes for everyone.
A few figures that speak for themselves:
- Over 130 km of marked bike routes and trails in the Lipno area.
- Bicycle Trail 33, the main loop around the entire reservoir, is approximately 75 km long.
- Children’s bike path, a safe loop right within the resort.
- Over 10 bike and e-bike rental shops in the area.
- A bike bus is available for those who don’t want to pedal all the way back.
Good to know: During the summer season, car traffic is restricted on certain sections around the reservoir, so cyclists have the roads pretty much to themselves.
Part of Cycle Route No. 33 runs around the entire length of Lake Lipno
The section of Cycle Route No. 33 that runs around Lake Lipno is rightly one of the most popular routes in the area. It is the main cycling route that circles the entire Lake Lipno reservoir and is manageable even for less experienced cyclists.
Basic specifications:
- Length: approximately 53 km (entire loop)
- Elevation gain: moderate, suitable for families
- Surface: asphalt, paved road, forest road in places
- Difficulty: moderate (suitable even for fit children aged 10 and up)
The route runs along the lake, passing through the picturesque towns of Frymburk, Černá v Pošumaví, Lipno nad Vltavou, and other villages along the reservoir’s shores. The views of the water are breathtaking in places.
Our tip: You don’t have to ride the entire loop in one go. The bike buses let you hop on or off at different stops and ride just the part of the bike path that fits into your schedule.
Author: melechovsky, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=53200523
Children's bike paths at Lipno
If you’re going on a bike ride with young children, there’s no need to worry. Lipno is better prepared for young cyclists than most other Czech resorts.
Children’s bike path at Lipno
Right in Lipno nad Vltavou, you’ll find a short, safe, car-free loop that’s ideal for children ages 3 and up. It’s about 2 km long and has a smooth asphalt surface. It’s perfect for children’s first rides without training wheels or for toddlers on balance bikes.
Lake Trail (Olšina)
This route runs along Olšina Pond and is suitable for families with strollers. It is a flat, barrier-free path with beautiful views of the water. The route is about 5 km long, and the return trip follows the same path. The surface is firm and suitable for children on bikes or balance bikes.
The Lipno–Frymburk Route (along Cycle Route 33)
This is a great option for families with older children who can handle routes of around 15–20 km. We recommend the section from Lipno to Frymburk (or back). It’s about 10 km one way, with gentle terrain. The bike bus will then take you back to the starting point.
Lipno Bike Buses: Schedule and Stops
One of the biggest benefits for cyclists at Lipno is the bike bus network, which operates every year during the summer season (typically June–September).
Why take the bike bus:
- You can transport both your bike and your child in a child seat
- You can get on and off at various stops along the route
- Buses run regularly, usually every hour
- The ticket price for a bicycle is nominal
Main stops for the bike bus on Lake Lipno: Lipno nad Vltavou – Přední Výtoň – Frymburk – Horní Planá – Černá v Pošumaví – Lipno nad Vltavou
For more information and the latest schedules, visit lipno.info (https://www.lipno.info/lipno/lipno-pro-rodiny/jihoceske-cyklobusy-na-lipensku.html) or directly at bike rental shops.
Our tip: Bike buses are very popular; in July and August, it’s a good idea to plan your departure for off-peak hours (avoid 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and 3 p.m.–5 p.m.).
Bicycle and e-bike rentals
You don’t have to bring your bike from home. There are over 10 rental shops at Lipno that will provide you with everything you need.
What to rent and where:
- Mountain bikes — standard offering at all rental shops, priced at approximately 300–500 CZK per day.
- Electric bikes — a great choice for less experienced cyclists or older riders, priced at approximately 700–1,100 CZK per day.
- Children’s bikes — 14″ and up, price approx. 150–300 CZK/day.
- Child seats and strollers — most rental companies also rent out accessories.
Where to find rental shops: Bike rental shops are mainly concentrated in Lipno nad Vltavou, Frymburk, and Černá v Pošumaví. Many of them offer online reservations. It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially in July and August.
Our tip: If you’re planning a longer stay, ask at Camping Panorama. Guests have access to bike rentals right at the campground.
Where to stay?
Cyclists need facilities, a bike rack, a shower, a place to dry their clothes, and a good night’s sleep.
Camping Panorama Lipno is located right Další to Bike Trail No. 33 and offers:
- Bicycle storage and a lockable shelter.
- Showers and restroom facilities with hot water.
- Bicycle repair stand (basic tools provided).
- A restaurant to recharge your batteries after a day-long trip.
- Camping and RV sites.
Reserve your spot at Camping Panorama, right Další to Bike Trail No. 33.
Did you go camping without a bike and now you regret it? Head to the nearest bike rental shop Lipno Centrum It’s about 1.5 km from the Marina Lipno complex, which you can easily cover on foot in about 20 minutes. So don’t hesitate—make the most of your stay at Lipno.
Sources: lipno.info, sumavanet.cz
