The Blanice River originates on the northern slope of the Batkovy Hill, on the border of Central and Southern Bohemia. Starting as an unobtrusive rivulet collecting waters from the Ratibořské Mountains, it gradually gathers strength until it becomes a river, which is to travel for another 66 kilometres. The stream draws breath just below Mladá Vožice and meanders towards the mystical Blaník Hill. The difference in elevation between the river’s surface and the peak is 250 metres. Leaving Velký Blaník behind, the river rushes through a charming valley towards the town of Vlašim. Little by little the rocky cliffs, overgrown by pine trees, recede until the river flows into the town. Gone is the tiny streamlet; it is now a full river which provides good conditions for water sports enthusiasts. A mill-race divides the river further on in the gardens of the town’s chateau. It complements the landscaped gardens and supplies water for a small water dam. Below Vlašim the Blanice enjoys flowing through its final section before draining into the Sázava River. Naturalists appreciate the natural character of the Blanice River – its banks are flanked by moist meadows and bushy willow trees. A mysterious animal, the brook lamprey, lives in the river sediment where it spends most of its life dug into the muddy bedrock. Otters also fare in the river, searching for food and catching small fish with their natural lightness and excellent swimming skills. You can usually find traces of these animals on the bare, muddy river banks.