Josefský pramen, Hradištko, Nymburk, 28912

## Overview Josefský pramen (Joseph's Spring) is a natural mineral spring located in the scenic Přírodní park Kersko (Kersko Nature Park) near the village of Hradištko in the Nymburk district of Central Bohemia, Czech Republic. The spring has been flowing since 1934, when an 89-meter-deep borehole was drilled to tap into the mineral-rich aquifer below. The water that rises from this depth is mineral, mildly radioactive, and iron-rich — a composition said to be similar to that of the renowned Poděbrady mineral springs located nearby, though with a notably lower carbon dioxide (CO₂) content. The strength and abundance of the spring are remarkable — the flow is so consistent and powerful that the spring remains open and accessible even throughout the winter months, never needing to be shut off. Today, the spring is sheltered by an open gazebo (altán), offering visitors a pleasant spot to rest and sample the distinctive mineral water. Kersko Nature Park itself is a beloved area of forests, wetlands, and quiet trails northeast of Prague, famously associated with the Czech writer Bohumil Hrabal, who spent much of his life in the area. A visit to Josefský pramen can easily be combined with a walk through the atmospheric Kersko landscape. ## Directions 1. From Nymburk, head southwest toward the village of Hradištko (approximately 8 km). 2. Follow signs toward Přírodní park Kersko (Kersko Nature Park). 3. The spring is situated within the park at GPS coordinates **50.152481, 14.909182**. 4. Look for the open gazebo structure that shelters the spring — it is visible from the nearby path. *Note: These directions are approximate. Using the GPS coordinates in a navigation app is recommended, as the spring is located within a forested nature park and may not appear on all road maps.* ## What to Expect Upon arrival, you'll find the spring housed beneath a charming open-air gazebo, designed to invite visitors to pause and enjoy the surroundings. The mineral water flows continuously — even in freezing winter conditions — so the spring can be visited year-round. The water has historically been appreciated for its mineral and iron content, and visitors have reported that it has a distinctive, pleasant taste. Its composition has been compared to the famous Poděbrady spa waters, which have been celebrated for their therapeutic properties since the late 19th century. The mildly radioactive and iron-bearing character of the water reflects the deep geological layers through which it travels before reaching the surface. The surrounding Kersko Nature Park offers a tranquil, forested setting with walking and cycling trails. The area is relatively flat and easy to navigate on foot. Bring a bottle if you'd like to take some water with you, and take time to explore the park's peaceful woodland paths while you're there.