Top 16 Lakes in Žilina
Best lakes in Žilina are situated in the Žilina region of Slovakia, an area characterized by its diverse natural landscape, including mountains and river valleys. The region is home to several significant water bodies, many of which are artificial reservoirs created for various purposes such as electricity generation and flood control. These lakes and reservoirs offer opportunities for recreation, cycling, and enjoying natural scenery.
Best lakes in Žilina
- The most popular lakes is Tatliakovo Lake, a lake located near the Ťatliakova chata shelter. Mountain trails branch off from this lake, including routes to Rohackie Stawy.
- Another must-see spot is Žilina Water Reservoir, an artificial lake primarily built for electricity generation and industrial water supply. It features a cycle path, sports facilities, and is easily accessible by car or public transport.
- Visitors also love Hričov Reservoir / Water Reservoir, a water reservoir on the river Váh. It is part of the Vážská cascade and was constructed between 1958 and 1962.
- Žilina is known for its artificial lakes and reservoirs, often created on rivers like the Váh. These include large-scale reservoirs and smaller, scenic lakes.
- The lakes in Žilina are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 38 upvotes and 9 photos shared across 16 highlights.
Last updated: May 31, 2026
Žilina Water Reservoir
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Liptovská Mara Lake
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Čierny Váh Reservoir
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Hričov Reservoir / Water Reservoir
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Basic data
Construction: 1958 – 1962
Tank volume: 8.467 million m³
Length of surface swelling: 6.0 km
Flooded area: 2.53 km²
At the time of higher water levels, a large amount of dirt gets into the reservoir through the waters of Kysuce and Rajčanka, which clog it. Currently, an estimated 2/3 of the reservoir's volume is clogged, which significantly reduces its storage capacity.
sk.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hri%C4%8Dov_(vodn%C3%A1_n%C3%A1dr%C5%BE)
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Liptovská Mara
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Námestovo Town Center and Orava Reservoir
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Apart from the church and the attractions of the Lake, there is one curiosity - the old Jewish cemetery right by the waters of the lake. This once significant community was persecuted from 1918 on and gone during the WW2. On the other hand, local people gave shelter to many refugees, many of them could work at the construction of the dam.
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Liptovská Cycle Route (Liptovská Cyklomagistrála)
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View of Slanický Ostrov Island and Orava Lake
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Orava Lake - with an area of some 35 square km it is the biggest in area (but not in capacity) artificial lake in Slovakia. It was built near a place where White and Black Orava rivers met, in a narrow passage between Uhlisko and Krivina mountains. It was created to protect the lower situated lands from the floods that had regularly occurred, as both Oravas are mountain rivers. The construction started in 1941 and was finished 14 years later. Several villages disappeared underwater and two islands were created. This lake is not as popular as Liptov Lake nor as the much smaller Czorsztyn Lake in Poland; somehow it’s not very known by the Polish who form the biggest tourist group here. On the other hand, you can find many places where you can sit down by the lake, relax, not bothered by a presence of other tourists.
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Tatliakovo Lake
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Southern Orava Reservoir
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More information: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Orava-Stausee
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Tips from the Community
Liptovská Mara is the largest water reservoir in Slovakia, located in the Liptovská Basin, between the Tatras and the Low Tatras. It is a popular holiday destination with swimming areas, beaches, water sports and boat trips. The lake is surrounded by asphalt and gravel roads, which are great for cycling trips with a view of the mountains. On the southern shore there is the Havránok lookout - an archaeological site with a replica of a Celtic settlement. In the season, it is worth avoiding weekend crowds - some of the routes run along busy roads. With a bit of luck, we can see a mirror reflection of the Tatras in the water.
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Čierny Váh - a water reservoir in Liptov, situated in the middle reaches of the Čierny Váh. Built in 1981. It is the lower reservoir of the Čierny Váh pump-storage hydropower system.
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The Čierny Váh rises in the Low Tatras on the slope of Kráľova hoľa and is 39 km long. The river is located in the Čiernovážska dolina (literally Black Váh Valley) and initially flows northeast to north to the municipality of Liptovská Teplička, then westwards. The valley also forms the border between the Low Tatras and the Kozie chrbty. In the course of the river there is a reservoir of the same name, Čierny Váh, with a hydroelectric power station (Slovenian: vodná nádrž Čierny Váh). The only municipalities on the river are Liptovská Teplička and Kráľova Lehota with the village of Čierny Váh named after the river.
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A lake located near the Ťatliakova chata shelter, from which mountain trails branch off, including: to Rohackie Stawy
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shining mountains in the evening whoever is lucky 🥳 to enjoy this should always remember it as an unforgettable moment.
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Nice place to relax and in the summer full of pretty girls on roller skates.
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Crossing the lava bank of the canal - there to the cycle path
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Hričov is a water reservoir on the river Váh, below its confluence with Kysuca and Rajčanka, near the village of Horný Hričov. It is part of the second part of the Vážská cascade and, together with the Žilina Waterworks, is its highest level. During the construction of the waterworks, part of the village of Strážov was flooded. Basic data Construction: 1958 – 1962 Tank volume: 8.467 million m³ Length of surface swelling: 6.0 km Flooded area: 2.53 km² At the time of higher water levels, a large amount of dirt gets into the reservoir through the waters of Kysuce and Rajčanka, which clog it. Currently, an estimated 2/3 of the reservoir's volume is clogged, which significantly reduces its storage capacity. https://sk.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hri%C4%8Dov_(vodn%C3%A1_n%C3%A1dr%C5%BE) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXv_foPcXl0
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of activities can I do at the lakes in Žilina?
The lakes in Žilina offer a wide range of activities. For water sports, Liptovská Mara Lake is excellent for swimming, boating, and windsurfing, while Žilina Water Reservoir provides facilities for beach volleyball, skatepark use, and boat rentals. Orava Lake is also popular for water sports and cycling. Šútovské jazero is a renowned natural swimming spot.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Žilina region?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Liptovská Mara Lake and Liptovská Mara are highlighted as family-friendly, offering beaches and various recreational options. Žilina Water Reservoir also has sports facilities and a children's trampoline, making it suitable for families. Šútovské jazero, with its clear waters and beaches, is another excellent choice for a family day out.
What are the best lakes for cycling in Žilina?
The Žilina region offers great cycling opportunities around its lakes. Žilina Water Reservoir features an asphalt path popular with cyclists and a dedicated cycling trail connecting Budatín, Varín, and Strečno. Liptovská Mara Lake is encircled by asphalt and gravel roads, providing scenic routes with mountain views. Orava Lake also has cycling paths with views of the surrounding mountains.
Can I swim in the lakes around Žilina?
Swimming is possible in several lakes. Liptovská Mara Lake has designated swimming areas and beaches. Šútovské jazero is particularly known as a popular natural swimming spot with clear, turquoise water and multiple beaches, including a nudist beach. However, Žilina Water Reservoir is generally not intended for swimming, though it supports other water sports.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, the lakes are often surrounded by interesting historical and cultural sites. Near Liptovská Mara Lake, you can visit the Havránok lookout, an archaeological site with a replica of a Celtic settlement. Orava Lake features the unique
What hiking opportunities are available near the lakes?
Hiking is a popular activity around the lakes. From Šútovské jazero, a hiking trail leads to the impressive 38-meter-high Šútovský Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Malá Fatra. Tatliakovo Lake is located near the Ťatliakova chata shelter, from which mountain trails branch off, including routes to Rohackie Stawy. For more general hiking options, you can explore various trails listed in the MTB Trails in Žilina guide, which often overlap with hiking paths.
Where can I find viewpoints with scenic views of the lakes?
Many lakes offer stunning viewpoints. Liptovská Mara Lake and Liptovská Mara are noted for their scenic views. View of Slanický Ostrov Island and Orava Lake provides a picturesque vista of the island and the expansive Orava Lake. Tatliakovo Lake is also recognized for its beautiful mountain views, especially in the evening.
Are there any less crowded lakes for a peaceful visit?
While popular, Orava Lake, despite being the largest by area, can offer quieter spots. Its vastness means you can often find places to relax without being bothered by many other tourists, especially compared to some of the more developed recreational areas. Šútovské jazero, while popular, also provides several smaller beaches in addition to the main ones, which might offer a more secluded experience.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Žilina?
The summer months are generally ideal for visiting the lakes, especially for swimming and water sports, as conditions are most favorable. Šútovské jazero, for instance, provides a refreshing escape during hot summer days. However, the lakes offer beautiful scenery year-round, with autumn providing vibrant colors and winter offering unique, serene landscapes, though activities might be limited to walking or specific winter sports.
How accessible are the lakes by public transport or car?
Žilina Water Reservoir is easily accessible by car or public transport, with visitor parking available on its right side. While specific public transport details for all lakes are not provided, major reservoirs like Liptovská Mara and Orava Lake are generally well-connected to nearby towns, which often have bus services. Driving offers the most flexibility for exploring the region's lakes.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Yes, you can find amenities near the lakes. Šútovské jazero has nearby buffets for refreshments. Larger lakes like Liptovská Mara Lake and Orava Lake are typically surrounded by towns and villages that offer various accommodation options, cafes, and restaurants to cater to visitors.
What kind of natural features can I expect around the lakes?
The lakes in Žilina are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You can expect to see mountain views, especially around Liptovská Mara Lake (between the Tatras and Low Tatras) and Orava Lake. Šútovské jazero is notable for its clear, turquoise water and unique terraced slopes. Many areas feature forests, river valleys, and natural monuments, offering picturesque scenery for nature photography and exploration.
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