Dolany combines the landscape along the Vltava with a defining history of water management and recurring sporting events. There are several aspects to consider when choosing where to stay: the riverside setting, historic engineering, local history or opportunities to be active. Depending on which aspect matters most to you, different facets of the village come to the fore.

The Vltava riverbank and the history of water management

Dolany lies on the left bank of the Vltava, where the rocky Vltava valley ends and the flatter landscape begins, stretching towards the confluence of the Vltava and the Elbe. The transition from the rocky valley to flatter terrain gives the description of the village a clear geographical reference. If you base your choice of stay on the landscape, Dolany can be understood primarily through its riverside location.

The Dolany weir lies in front of the village, where the Vltava splits; a power station is located there. The Dolany waterworks were built in 1901 as part of the Vltava waterway between Prague and Mělník. This brings together the location at the river fork and the history of a waterway.

The original structure included a fixed weir and a movable-gate weir with hinged gates, as well as a lock chamber in a lock canal on the right bank of the Vltava. The Libčice hydroelectric power station uses the hydroelectric potential of the movable weir at Dolany. The weir therefore has a connection to hydropower as well as its role in the history of water engineering.

Local history and recurring gatherings

Dolany Fortress is first mentioned in 1406. This early historical reference adds another point in time to the history of water management. The “dolanské švestky” (Dolany plums), which came from Dolany, were also historically famous. The village’s history thus includes not only engineering works but also a connection to its local plums.

“Dolany v Dolanech” has been a recurring gathering of municipalities named Dolany since 2001. The participating municipalities celebrate together over a weekend and take part in sports; the host municipality changes each time. Dolany nad Vltavou hosted the 22nd edition in 2025. If you are planning to travel for the gathering, check in advance whether that year’s edition is being held in Dolany.

Sport and getting around

The TJ Sokol Dolany grounds include a football pitch, two tennis courts and a floodlit multi-purpose field with artificial turf. The field is used mainly for small-sided football, tennis, nohejbal and volleyball. The sports facilities therefore include both dedicated football and tennis courts and a field where several sports can be played.

A railway stop, as well as cycling and hiking trails, are located close to the grounds. This proximity provides a practical reference point if you are considering sports facilities and trails as different aspects of your stay. The “Pochod Josefa Kloučka” is a recurring long-distance walking event in Dolany, which can also be completed by bicycle. Check the official calendar when planning for the current edition.

Discover more destinations: Cítov, Cesky Raj, Hoření Vinice, Kadlín, Mělnické Vtelno, Veltrusy, Čakovičky, Olovnice

For the broader travel overview: Okres Mělník.