Lakes and dams Slanské vrchy

Vodná nádrž Sigord reservoir is located near the village of Kokošovce, not far from Prešov, surrounded by beautiful nature. When this water area was being built between 1965 and 1967, the primary focus was on flood protection and irrigation for the needs of the local agricultural cooperative. However, this purpose was soon abandoned, and locals began coming here for recreation. Sigord was so popular that the city of Prešov had a pier built there.

Following the floods in 2008, the reservoir was drained due to its inadequate technical condition. The bottom gradually became overgrown with invasive woody plants. The reservoir was renovated between 2011 and 2012, when it was refilled and over a thousand fish were released into it. The two-hectare dam is currently used primarily by fishermen, but swimming is also possible at one's own risk. A boathouse operates by the water, providing not only summer boating but also winter ice skating, and it organizes cultural, sports, and ecological events throughout the year. Pallet seating and fire pits are prepared for visitors within the boathouse area.

The civic association Čavargy contributed to the development of the area, having built the so-called Sigordské koľečko (Sigord Loop) in 2018 with the help of volunteers, which is an educational trail around the reservoir. It includes three information boards that reveal details about the local fauna, as well as new benches with a view of the water surface. A leisurely walk takes about 30 minutes. In the summer, a tourist train also runs on the route Malý Muk – Sigord Racová and back.

The Vodná nádrž Sigord reservoir is located about 12 km from the center of Prešov. It is also possible to get here by public transport. If you choose to drive, you can park in the parking lot above the boathouse. A recreational center is located near the water, which also provides dining options.

Indoor swimming with attractions is offered by the nearby Aquapark Delňa. Once you have had enough swimming, there are trips to the surrounding area, where you will encounter several castle ruins: Zbojnícky hrad, Bodoň, Šebeš, and Soľnohrad. You can head to Prešov for culture, which truly offers a bit of everything; you will find the Divadlo Jonáša Záborského theater, the Šarišská galéria gallery, and a Calvary with a view of the city.

If you decide to stay near the Vodná nádrž Sigord reservoir, start your search for accommodation directly in Kokošovce, where you can choose from guest houses or cottages. The city of Prešov itself has a wide range of options, where you can book an apartment in the city center or a room in a guest house. Sigord has regained its former popularity and is a place that is lively all year round. Come and experience an interesting holiday here as well.

A very popular spot for vacationers in the Slanské vrchy mountains, on the southeastern foot of Veľký Milič, is Jazero Izra. Its name originated from the word "jozra", which translates from Hungarian as lake. It is located in the cadastral territory of the village of Slanská Huta, at an altitude of 445 m above sea level. It boasts an area of 5.1 ha and a maximum depth of 7 m. However, it was not here forever, but formed gradually through landslides of soil and rocks that created a sort of natural dam.

In Slovakia, various myths or legends are tied to many places, and Jazero Izra is no exception. In ancient times, Izra, the daughter of a Turkish Grand Vizier, reportedly fell in love with a Hungarian count, who was an enemy. When they were in a boat together with Izra, her father shot the count. Out of grief, Izra jumped into the lake, which forever buried her together with her great love, the Hungarian count.

Whether Izra actually went boating on the lake is something we will probably never find out. What is certain, however, is that you can go boating on it. And not only that, you can also swim or go fishing. The surroundings of the lake are beautiful, quiet, and full of greenery. It is virtually tailor-made for peaceful family walks or hiking to the surrounding nature reserves. You will be close to Veľký Milič, Malý Milič, and Marocká hoľa. So when you set out here, be sure to bring hiking boots in addition to your swimsuit.

Jazero Izra is accessible directly from the village of Slanská Huta, from where it can be reached in several ways. Either along a paved road by motor vehicle, by bicycle along a marked cycling trail, or on foot following the green hiking trail. So take a trip and book your accommodation near Jazero Izra, ideally on the accommodation Slanská Huta page. Bring your family or friends, do not forget your swimsuit and hiking shoes, and come experience great relaxation.

In the largest village of the Košice-okolie district, in Čaňa, there is a complex of several lakes known as Čanianske jazerá. They were formed during gravel extraction, progressively from 1854. At that time, surface gravel and soil mines were opened here due to the construction of the railway between Košice and Miskolc. Currently, the lakes (except for one) are used for recreation.

The best-known of the local lakes is called Tajvan by the locals. It is the most frequently visited because it is the only one adapted for tourism. It has beaches covered with gravel, and a cottage area is located nearby. During the summer, locals especially like to spend their time here during free evenings. Indeed, it is the venue for discos held directly under the starry sky. The only disadvantage is the fact that swimming is not permitted here for hygienic reasons. However, if you also want to swim, choose the slightly less known gravel pit Geča. There you can both swim and relax. It is nothing unusual to meet fishermen there either. An unofficial nudist beach is even located on its shores. So if you decide to cool off during a hot summer just like that, while walking around the surroundings, you don't have to worry about the swimsuit that stayed at home.

If you also want to visit the beautiful Čanianské jazerá, it is very simple. The first step should be booking accommodation in the vicinity of Čanianské jazerá, ideally directly on the website accommodation Čaňa. But if you yearn for the hustle and bustle of a larger city, look at the offer of the website accommodation Košice. These are located only about 15 km from Čaňa and offer many tips for trips. Another step should be planning the activities you want to manage during your stay. And the last, yet equally important step will be deciding whom you will take with you. A holiday, no matter how great, for example even the one at Čanianské jazerá, is much better when you share the experiences with your loved ones.

The Vodná nádrž Pod Bukovcom reservoir is located near the village of Bukovec, in the Košice region. The reservoir was artificially built in the 1960s. It serves as an emergency reservoir of industrial water, but today it is very popular mainly with tourists. In the summer season, it attracts many visitors thanks to exceptionally clean water and a pleasant temperature of around 20 °C.

Visitors to the reservoir can thus relax undisturbed in a beautiful natural environment, on two maintained beaches, and take a dip in crystal-clear water. However, the Pod Bukovcom dam also offers diverse water sports options, with windsurfing and boating among the favorites. Families with children in particular will appreciate children's playgrounds equipped with climbing frames, swings, and merry-go-rounds. Active vacationers can burn off energy on sports grounds. Anglers likewise enjoy staying along the shores of the Vodná nádrž Pod Bukovcom reservoir, as this easygoing sport is permitted here as well.

The surroundings of the reservoir invite short walks, hiking, or cycling in the nearby forests. Take a walk to the second reservoir, Bukovec, as well. It serves as a drinking water reservoir for the Košice area, so direct access to the water surface itself is prohibited.

Plan a long weekend and stay near the Vodná nádrž Pod Bukovcom reservoir. On our pages, you will find accommodation tailored exactly to your expectations. You can thus combine a pleasant rest by the shore of the reservoir with exploring the nearby city of Košice. A visit to Dóm svätej Alžbety is definitely worth it here. You will step back into the city's history during a walk through Ulička remesiel or during a tour of the ruins of Košický hrad. There are truly many attractions in the area; all you have to do is choose.

Vodná nádrž Veľká Domaša is rightfully considered the green pearl of eastern Slovakia. It reaches into two districts, Vranov nad Topľou and Stropkov. It extends across the charming Ondavská vrchovina over an impressive 1,422 ha. It ranks as the 4th largest water reservoir in Slovakia. The purpose of its construction was water flow regulation, industrial use, as well as a supply of utility and drinking water. Among other things, it is a very popular and sought-after place for recreation and water sports.

The construction of the water reservoir took 6 years, from February 1962 to December 1967. The creation of Veľká Domaša led to the flooding of 6 villages. Dobrá nad Ondavou, Kelča, Petejovce, Trepec, Veľká Domaša, and Valkov. While diving, you can come across the remaining foundations, walls, and cellars of individual flooded dwellings. Churches were demolished using pyrotechnics, while rare churches in Kelča and Bžany were protected by constructing protective dykes.

The Vodné dielo Veľká Domaša water reservoir is an attractive summer destination. Located at an altitude of 162.4 m above sea level, its water reaches temperatures of up to 23 °C, ranking it among the warmest reservoirs in Slovakia. In addition to its blue-green water with self-cleaning capabilities virtually inviting you for a swim, you can also try various water sports or a cruise on a sightseeing boat.

In total, Domaša features five recreational resorts: Valkov-Tíšava, Dobrá, Poľany, Holčíkovce, and Nová Keľča. Their shores offer playgrounds, sports fields, well-maintained beaches, and dining options. One of the most popular beaches is in Nová Keľča. Anglers will also find plenty to enjoy here, as 23 species of fish thrive in Domaša. Rich catch opportunities are also provided by the adjacent Malá Domaša reservoir, which serves a balancing function.

Summer at Domaša traditionally means great entertainment, night discos, and various musical and cultural events. The regularly organized Miss Domaša event is always a big success. Become a part of one of these popular events and take a holiday right here with us in Slovakia. Those who know the beauty of our country swear by it. Plan your stay, contact accommodation providers on the page accommodation okres Vranov nad Topľou or accommodation okres Stropkov, and come explore the beauty and attractions of Prešovský kraj.

In the Košickom kraji, in eastern Slovakia, just 3 km past the village of Gelnica, you will find the foothill so-called Turzovské jazero. At first glance, its surroundings will captivate you with their magnificent coniferous forests and mountain meadows. Did you know that in the past, Jazero Turzov was among the most sought-after spa resorts in Rakúsko-Uhorsku? They were visited mainly by patients with respiratory and nervous system disorders.

The Turzovské kúpele were known throughout the Rakúska-Uhorská monarchy. People went boating on the water surface, and famous Anna bály were held at the spa. There was also a bowling alley and tennis courts. Water from the lake was boiled with pine needles and used for the inhalation of medicinal essential oils. Directly on the shore stood a spa house, which currently provides accommodation and catering services.

The water in Turzovskom jazere is clean and clear, reaching up to 17 meters at its deepest point. During hot summer days, you can swim in it, but only at your own risk. Part of the resort is also the lower lake, by which you will find the detached exhibition of the Baníckeho múzea v Gelnici, the Banský skanzen, and the Jozef adit. The lower lake is not suitable for swimming as it is used for fishing. Both lakes are fed by mountain streams originating in fault zones of rocks, as well as waters from abandoned mining works.

The wonderful environment in the middle of the forest is made for a picnic, so do not hesitate and take a blanket and a basket full of goodies for your trip. Directly on the shore, there is also a fire pit where you can roast delicious sausages. A mining educational trail will lead you to the lake from Gelnica.

After this undemanding walk, set out on a proper hike and conquer Kojšovskú hoľu. The surroundings of Gelnica offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling. A great place for relaxation and swimming is the popular Vodná nádrž Ružín. Discover the beauties of the Volovských vrchov and book your stay in Spiši today. You can find the best accommodation offer around Turzovského jazera on our website accommodation in Gelnica. Come and see for yourself what remarkable places Východné Slovensko hides.