Vitmanov Pond System
This pond system is named after the Vitmanov manor, near which the ponds named Starý Vdovec (Old Widower), Nový Vdovec (New Widower), Ženich (Bridegroom), Vyšehrad, and Stolec are scattered. The system also includes the nature reserve Ponds near Vitmanov.
Nature Reserve – Ponds near Vitmanov
The water bodies of Nový Vdovec and Ženich are a valuable ornithological site with many wooded islets. On the eastern shore of Nový Vdovec lies a small peat bog where marsh cranberry and round-leaved sundew grow. Fauna includes a colony of great cormorants and black-headed gulls. The common kingfisher, greylag goose, and common goldeneye also nest here. The white-tailed eagle nests nearby.
Nový Vdovec
The pond was originally built between 1562–1564, abolished in 1827, and restored in 1865.
Although a farmstead was established on its site in 1827, the poor soil failed and the pond was quickly reinstated in 1865. It is separated from the Ženich pond by a southern dam. Several protected summer oaks stand on the main, western dam.
Starý Vdovec
This pond was built by Mikuláš Ruthard of Malešov for Vilém of Rožmberk. Its first filling dates back to around 1564. Jakub Krčín raised the dam and enlarged the pond. Originally, the pond covered the entire area of today’s Vitmanov system.
In the mid-18th century, the water level was lowered and the pond divided into two parts, as we know them today: Starý Vdovec and Nový Vdovec.
How to get there
You can reach the system by taking the road from Třeboň toward Stará Hlína and turning right to the village of Stříbřec. The path leads along the dams of the ponds and follows the green hiking trail and the Lužnice and Around Třeboň cycling routes.
