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Dubasari Reservoir
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Lake
The Dubăsari Reservoir is one of Moldova's largest artificial lakes, constructed between 1951 and 1954 on the Dniester River. It was formed following the establishment of the country's first major hydroelectric power station near the town of Dubăsari during the Soviet era. Geographically, the reservoir stretches approximately 128 kilometers in length, with an average width of 500 meters, expanding to 1.5 kilometers at its widest points. Its total surface area covers roughly 67.5 square kilometers. Historically, the dam's construction marked a significant milestone for regional industrialization and the expansion of the electrical grid. Today, the lake is utilized for power generation, irrigation, commercial fishing, and recreation. Its banks are framed by pretty hills and small woodlands, making it a popular destination for summer holidaymakers. Despite its economic utility, the reservoir faces environmental issues such as siltation, necessitating ongoing maintenance and ecological conservation efforts. Nevertheless, it remains a cornerstone of Moldova's water management and riverine landscape.
- Location: Moldova
- Nearby: Dubăsari (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -2 | 4 | 10 | 17 | 21 | 23 | 23 | 17 | 10 | 4 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 33 | 37 | 38 | 53 | 69 | 60 | 37 | 41 | 44 | 40 | 38 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The vast reservoir on the Dniester is accessible via several regional roads leading to the towns and villages along its shores. Visitors often approach from the main dam area or through smaller lakeside settlements for closer views.
Best season
Summer is the most popular time for enjoying the lake's breezes and the surrounding modified landscape. Spring and autumn offer peaceful atmospheres for birdwatching and photography, while winter brings a stark, chilly beauty to the water.
Terrain & paths
The shoreline presents a mix of flat concrete infrastructure near the power generation facilities and natural, sometimes muddy, banks elsewhere. Paths around the water vary greatly, from paved promenades to completely unpaved fisherman tracks.
What to bring
General leisure wear is adequate for the developed areas, but sturdier shoes are recommended if exploring the natural shorelines. Sun protection is a must on the open water edges, and binoculars are great for observing distant waterfowl.
Parking
Ample parking is usually found near the main dam structures and designated viewpoints along the major roads. In rural areas along the reservoir, visitors can simply park carefully on the wide shoulders of access roads.
Safety
Swimming in non-designated areas can be dangerous due to sudden drops and underwater currents related to the reservoir's operation. Also, restrict access to any fenced-off industrial zones directly associated with the power plant.
Time needed
A quick stop to marvel at the scale of the reservoir and dam takes only an hour or two. However, leisurely walks along the shorelines or picnicking can easily turn the visit into a relaxing half-day experience.
Geography
Facts
- Constructed between the years 1951 and 1954.
- The reservoir has a total length of 128 km.
- Total surface area covers 67.5 sq km.
- Site of Moldova's first major hydroelectric plant.
- Used for power generation, irrigation, and fishing.
- The average depth of the lake is 7.2 meters.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Dubasari Reservoir (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the reservoir used for?
For electricity generation through the hydroelectric plant and for recreation.
Can you go birdwatching there?
Yes, many water birds use the lake for resting or nesting.
Are there beaches at Dubăsari lake?
Yes, there are popular shore areas near Holercani and Molovata.
Can you rent boats?
Rowing boats can be rented at some holiday resorts.
Is fishing allowed year-round?
Fishing is allowed except during the spring spawning closure.
Dubasari Reservoir: where is it located?
Dubasari Reservoir is located in Moldova.
Dubasari Reservoir: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Dubasari Reservoir: why is it worth visiting?
The Dubăsari Reservoir is one of Moldova's largest artificial lakes, constructed between 1951 and 1954 on the Dniester River.
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Nature
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Dniester River
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More places
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A significant hydroelectric plant on the Dniester river.
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Maiac Memorial
A memorial honoring the historical development of the region in the last century.