Nové Mlýny Reservoir, Reservoir in Dolní Věstonice, Czech Republic

Nové Mlýny Reservoir is the lowest of three linked reservoirs on the Dyje in southern Moravia, built between 1975 and 1988. Its earth dam stands 9.8 m high and runs over 4,600 m long, with a 5 m wide crest. At 16.7 km² it is the third-largest reservoir in the Czech Republic, and a small hydroelectric plant sits in the dam.

The Nové Mlýny reservoir system was built between 1975 and 1988, with the lower Novomlýnská nádrž as its final basin on the Dyje. Its 9.8 m high, over 4,600 m long earth dam holds back 16.7 km² of water, making it the third largest reservoir in the Czech Republic. The scheme served irrigation, flood protection and fish farming.

The name "Nové Mlýny" means "New Mills" and recalls the mills that once stood along the Dyje. Today the upper basin draws swimmers and anglers, while birdwatchers tend to gather near the middle basin where reed beds attract a wide range of species.

Paths along the upper basin are easy to walk and give direct access to the shore for swimming or fishing, while the middle basin is better approached on foot for birdwatching. Wind can pick up over the open water, so a light layer is worth bringing along.

The middle basin was designed with artificial reed islands built as compensation for the wetlands lost during construction. These islands have become nesting grounds for protected bird species and a regular stop for migratory birds passing through central Europe.