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Zemplínska šírava
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Zemplínska šírava, often affectionately referred to as the 'Slovak Sea', is the second largest reservoir in Slovakia and a dominating landscape feature in the far east of the country. The massive body of water stretches at the foot of the volcanic Vihorlat Mountains near the town of Michalovce. The lake was constructed in the 1960s primarily to provide protection against the devastating floods of the Laborec river and for irrigation purposes, but it rapidly evolved into eastern Slovakia's most popular recreational resort. The northern shores are lined with numerous holiday resorts, campsites, and beaches that attract tens of thousands of vacationers during the summer. The warm, shallow waters of the reservoir create handy conditions for swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing, while the quieter eastern part serves as a protected bird sanctuary.
- Location: Slovakia
- Top sights: Amfiteáter · Kostolík pod Senderovom · Thermal park Šírava
- Nearby: Zemplínska Šírava (4 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 | -5 | -3 | 3 | 9 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 20 | 15 | 8 | 3 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 44 | 40 | 41 | 45 | 86 | 86 | 97 | 69 | 62 | 59 | 47 | 47 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The Zemplínska šírava water area in Slovakia can mostly be reached directly via adjacent country roads and lakeside promenades, which offer an easy connection to the surrounding recreational spots.
Best season
The best time to visit is generally between late spring and early autumn, as these months typically offer pleasant temperatures and more stable weather conditions for outdoor activities.
Terrain & paths
Along the shorelines, there are mostly flat and well-developed paths that allow for relaxed walks, while the broader surroundings feature typical riparian vegetation.
What to bring
Visitors should definitely wear sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing, as well as always carry sufficient drinking water, since the infrastructure in natural areas can vary considerably.
Parking
Parking facilities are usually found at designated spots in the surrounding communities or at central starting points for hikes along the edges of the respective natural area.
Safety
It is strongly recommended, for reasons of nature conservation and personal safety, to always stay on official paths and to exercise appropriate caution during uncertain weather conditions.
Time needed
Experience shows that a typical visit duration ranges from a few hours to an entire day, heavily depending on what specific explorations or extensive hikes are planned for the occasion.
Geography
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Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Zemplínska šírava (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is this lake called the 'Slovak Sea'?
Because of its enormous surface area and its popularity as a summer holiday destination.
What activities are offered at the lake?
Swimming, sailing, jet-skiing, and boat tours; there is also a modern thermal park on the shore.
Are there quieter zones at the lake?
The eastern part of the lake is a nature reserve and significantly quieter than the tourist centers.
When is the water temperature most pleasant?
In July and August, the shallow water often reaches temperatures above 22 degrees Celsius.
Are there campsites directly by the water?
Yes, there are several large campsites in the resorts of Hôrka and Kaluža.
Zemplínska šírava: where is it located?
Zemplínska šírava is located in Slovakia.
Zemplínska šírava: what is there to see?
Highlights include Amfiteáter, Kostolík pod Senderovom, Thermal park Šírava.
Zemplínska šírava: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Zemplínska šírava: why is it worth visiting?
Zemplínska šírava, often affectionately referred to as the 'Slovak Sea', is the second largest reservoir in Slovakia and a dominating landscape feature in the far east of the country.
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