In a spectacular display of winter recreation, hundreds of ice skating enthusiasts are flocking to the natural ice track on Lipno Lake. The current setup features two separate circuits: a three-kilometer loop near Frymburk and a four-kilometer stretch at Lipno nad Vltavou.
Local official Antonín Labaj, deputy mayor of Frymburk, reports that ice thickness has reached up to 15 centimeters, allowing for the creation of a 15-meter-wide skating path. The weekend saw hundreds of visitors enjoying the pristine conditions, marking what officials consider an ideal turnout.
While both circuits currently operate independently, officials are optimistic about connecting them this week, weather permitting. The last time the full track was connected was in 2017, but rough ice in one section currently prevents complete linkage.
Safety remains a top priority, with official skating permitted only when ice thickness reaches 18 centimeters. Authorities strongly advise visitors to stick to marked paths, as ice thickness varies significantly across the lake. Since December, three skaters have fallen through the ice, though fortunately without injuries.
The Lipno ice track holds a prestigious place in the Guinness World Records. In February 2009, it was certified as the world’s longest maintained natural ice skating track, measuring an impressive 10,923 meters and surpassing Ottawa’s 7.8-kilometer track.