Šumava: Heart of the Vltava reappears due to low water levels

The 'Heart of the Vltava', a natural formation created by the meanders of the old Vltava riverbed near Horní Planá, has become visible again due to declining water levels in the Lipno reservoir. The reservoir is currently four meters below its normal level due to ongoing drought conditions.

This landmark, located in the meadows near Pihlov, was a popular destination for romantic excursions before the area was flooded during the reservoir's creation in 1958. It was famously documented by photographers Josef and František Seidel. Today, the formation is being captured through satellite imagery, drones, and photography from nearby lookout towers.