Plizio Visual Lab
Vlasina Lake
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Lake
Vlasina Lake is a prominent semi-artificial reservoir located on the Vlasina plateau in southeastern Serbia, at an altitude of approximately 1,211 meters. It was created between 1949 and 1954 through the construction of a dam on the Vlasina River, flooding what was previously a large peat bog known as Vlasinsko blato. The lake is unique for its 'floating islands,' which are massive chunks of peat that detached from the bottom and drift across the 16-square-kilometer water surface depending on the wind. These islands support specific vegetation and are a rare phenomenon in Europe. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, birch forests, and a microclimate that remains cool even during peak summer months. The lake's average depth is around 10 meters, though it reaches 34 meters near the dam. As a protected area of category I, it serves as a critical habitat for various fish species like brown trout and many bird species, while also being a significant source of hydroelectric power for the region through the Vrla power plants.
- Location: Serbia
- Nearby: Vladičin Han (21 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 | -3 | -1 | 2 | 7 | 12 | 17 | 19 | 19 | 15 | 9 | 4 | -1 |
| Rain mm | 46 | 41 | 52 | 56 | 70 | 71 | 52 | 50 | 49 | 60 | 50 | 51 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The lake is typically well accessible via the regional mountain road, which winds its way picturesquely up to the high plateau and has wide-open views of the surroundings.
Best season
The warm summer months are widely considered the best time to enjoy nature along the shores and to peacefully observe the remarkable phenomenon of the floating peat islands.
Terrain & paths
The shoreline areas are mostly flat and highly accessible, allowing for exceptionally pleasant walks along the water without the need to navigate any steep or dangerous slopes.
What to bring
Comfortable footwear, a camera, and a wind-resistant jacket are usually convenient, as a fresh and distinctly cool breeze can frequently sweep across the water on this elevated plateau.
Parking
Around the lake, there are typically several designated parking areas and rest spots, which ensure direct and highly convenient access to the profoundly pretty shoreline.
Safety
Although the terrain generally appears completely harmless, you should always exercise caution when moving near the boggy ground or unfamiliar, potentially unstable shore edges.
Time needed
A visit mostly lasts anywhere from a few hours for a leisurely stroll along the banks to an entire weekend for those genuinely seeking absolute tranquility and profound relaxation.
Geography
Facts
- The lake is situated at an elevation of 1,211 meters.
- The surface area covers approximately 16 square kilometers.
- The reservoir was formed between 1949 and 1954.
- Its maximum depth reaches 34 meters near the dam.
- The floating peat islands can be up to 2 meters thick.
- It provides water for the four Vrla hydroelectric plants.
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
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Vlasina Lake (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What are floating islands?
Peat layers that have detached from the bottom and float on the water surface.
What is the altitude of the lake?
It is located at 1,213 meters, making it one of the highest lakes in Serbia.
Can you camp there?
Yes, there are official campsites around the lake in beautiful surroundings.
Are there rare plants there?
Yes, the area is known for carnivorous plants like the sundew.
Is the water suitable for swimming?
In summer, the water reaches pleasant temperatures, handy for swimming.
Vlasina Lake: where is it located?
Vlasina Lake is located in Serbia.
Vlasina Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Vlasina Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Vlasina Lake is a prominent semi-artificial reservoir located on the Vlasina plateau in southeastern Serbia, at an altitude of approximately 1,211 meters.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Serbia →
Nearby cities
Cacak Trade Center
Cacak is considered an important transport and trade hub in Central Serbia.
Zajecar Industrial Hub
Zajecar is a regional economic center in Eastern Serbia, focusing on trade and various industrial plants.
Pozarevac Economic Center
Pozarevac serves as an important regional commercial and administrative center.
Istog Municipality
Located in western Kosovo, Istog is known for its natural beauty, including the Rugova Canyon and numerous water sources.
Uvac
A spectacular nature reserve famous for the dramatic meanders of the Uvac River and rare Griffon Vultures.
Prokuplje Industrial Center
Prokuplje is a regional center for various industrial branches and manufacturing in the Toplica region.
Leposavić Municipality
Located in North Kosovo, Leposavić is known for its scenic mountain landscapes and important Serbian Orthodox monasteries.
Vladičin Han
Vladičin Han is located in southern Serbia on the banks of the South Morava river.
Zubin Potok
A gateway to nature in northern Kosovo, renowned for the vast Gazivoda Lake and the stunning mountain scenery of Mokra Gora.
Sjenica
Located on the stunning Pešter Plateau, Sjenica is known for its rugged natural beauty and extreme winters.
Prijepolje
Prijepolje is a town in southwestern Serbia at the confluence of the Lim and Mileševka rivers.
Priboj
Located on the banks of the Lim River, Priboj is a town rich in industrial history and surrounded by stunning nature.
History & landmarks
Golubac Fortress
A majestic medieval fortress at the entrance of the Iron Gates, one of the best-preserved castles in Serbia.
Gamzigrad (Felix Romuliana)
A magnificent late Roman imperial palace of Galerius and a UNESCO World Heritage site in Eastern Serbia.
Momčilo's Fortress Pirot
The medieval fortress Momčilov Grad is located in Pirot and dates back to the reign of Prince Lazar.
Stara Planina Waterfalls
The Stara Planina region houses numerous waterfalls.
Niš Fortress
The well-preserved fortress dates from the 18th century and was built by the Ottomans on older foundations.
Nature
More places
Vlasina Mountain
The Vlasina mountain range surrounds the well-known Vlasina Lake.
Besna Kobila
This mountain is located in southeastern Serbia near Vranje.
Kukavica Mountain
Kukavica is located in the southern part of Serbia between Leskovac and Vranje.
Pasha's Konak Vranje
Built in the 18th century, this residence of an Ottoman pasha is a significant example of Balkan architecture.
Vranje Textile Industry
Vranje has a long tradition in textile industry, which is still a significant branch today.
Serbian Rila foothills
Foothills of the Rila mountains in southeastern Serbia near the border.
National Museum Leskovac
The museum documents the historical development of the city of Leskovac and the region.
Leskovac Textile Center
Leskovac is historically known as a center of the Serbian textile industry.