There are several themes to choose from when planning a trip to Stružnice: the annual whitewater slalom race on the Ploučnice, the pond landscape of the Stružnické rybníky and historical traces of the town. There are also protected habitats and specific transport connections. If you are looking for a holiday apartment, first consider what you would like your stay to focus on: an event date, nature or local history. Stružnice is a good starting point for exploring the scenic and cultural highlights of North Bohemia.
Whitewater on the Ploučnice
Stružnická Peřej is an annual traditional whitewater slalom race held at the rapid by the mill on the Ploučnice. If you are travelling for the race, check the event dates in advance. The course combines calm water with rapids rated WW 1–2. A 2022 sports description classifies the character of the course this way; work on the river may change it. So, as well as checking the date, check current conditions before planning any activity on the water.
Historical traces and route planning
The first written mention of Stružnice dates from 1281; the place name appears in the nobleman Záviš of Stružnice’s byname. Historically, three estates stood along the Ploučnice, referred to as the Upper, Middle and Lower Estates. Prominent earthworks and two Gothic cellars remain from the former water castle. The water castle lies entirely outside marked hiking trails. Take its location into account when planning your routes, and check the route and conditions of marked trails before setting out.
Ponds, protected areas and notable trees
The Stružnické rybníky are a Natura 2000 site with shallow ponds heavily overgrown with aquatic plants. The wetland and aquatic habitats are home primarily to a population of the fire-bellied toad (Bombina bombina). This is distinct from the Dolní Ploučnice protected area, which extends across Stružnice and Jezvé and also serves to protect the fire-bellied toad. The area contains fragments of streamside forests and ash-alder floodplain forests, as well as wet alder forests. Lípa u Stružnice is also a protected individual tree; it was first designated on 9 December 2011.
Cycling route, railway and choice of accommodation
Cycling route No. 211 passes through Stružnice. The railway line from Benešov nad Ploučnicí to Česká Lípa also runs through the town. These details are relevant to different planning questions: the cycling route may be useful when planning your rides; if you are considering travelling by train, check the timetable and stops for your travel date. When searching for a holiday apartment, it helps to decide what you would like to focus on: a particular event with a set date, the pond and forest habitats, or local history. Stružnice makes a good base for exploring North Bohemia.
Discover more destinations: Arnultovice, Noviny Pod Ralskem, Radeč, Marenice, Svor, Prysk, Kunratice U Cvikova, Sosnová U České Lípy
For the wider travel overview: Okres Česká Lípa.
