Three specific attractions can help guide your choice of a stay in Ostrá: the Mydlovarský luh Nature Reserve, part of which lies within Ostrá’s cadastral area; Mydlovar Castle Ruins; and the Libuše Tržická Stone Museum. Marked hiking trails also lead to a swimming area and the Elbe. This offers different ways to focus on nature and architectural history.

Floodplain Forest and Waterside Landscape

Mydlovarský luh is one of the last remaining complexes of floodplain forests in the Elbe region. In addition to the floodplain forests, the protected area includes former Elbe channels, wetlands, hay meadows and the naturally meandering Farský Stream. The area comprises wooded, wet and open landscapes. Former river channels, the stream, meadows and floodplain forest each contribute a distinct character; the protected area is not limited to a single stretch of forest.

Castle Ruins and Stone Museum

Mydlovar Castle Ruins are a rare example of a castle built entirely of brick and featuring a curtain wall. Surviving features include an oval fortified area, several systems of water defences and remnants of masonry. The castle was founded around the second half of the 13th century and was already recorded as abandoned before 1561. Its architectural history can therefore be traced through specific features of the site and an approximate date. A curtain wall is a defensive wall enclosing the castle grounds.

The Libuše Tržická Stone Museum offers a different cultural focus. It exhibits several dozen stones from the 19th and 20th centuries. Those choosing cultural attractions for their stay can distinguish between the castle, founded in the Middle Ages, and a collection from more recent centuries. The architecture and collection represent different eras, each offering its own perspective on local culture.

Hiking Trails to the Swimming Area and the Elbe

The two marked hiking trails follow different routes. The blue-marked trail passes through the southern part of Ostrá, loops around the swimming area along its eastern shore, and continues through the holiday settlement of Buda on the right bank of the Elbe and through Mydlovarský luh. The yellow-marked trail follows the right bank of the Elbe from the holiday settlement of Buda to the bridge over the Elbe in Lysá nad Labem. When choosing a route, consider whether you would rather visit the spots mentioned around the swimming area and in the floodplain forest, or follow the riverbank as far as Lysá nad Labem. Markings and trail conditions may change; check conditions before setting out.

Getting to Botanicus

Ostrá railway stop is on the Prague–Lysá nad Labem–Kolín line and provides access to Botanicus. Check the current timetable for your travel date, as train schedules may change.

Discover more destinations: Vrbová Lhota, Okřínek, Jiřice, Třebestovice, Zbožíčko, Černíky, Činěves, Bobnice.

For the broader travel overview: Nymburk District.