Lakes and dams Stráňavy

Asfaltové jazero is located near the small village of Nezbudská Lúčka. The site is known for its rich deposits of natural asphalt. At the same time, the only quarry in Europe for its extraction operated here in the past. Mining began here even before the First World War; according to chronicles, 5,000 cubic meters of asphalt were extracted annually from this quarry up until 1928. This mixture was also used for the construction of the road between Strečno and Vrútky. Mining ended here in 1962, as the deposit was close to depletion and groundwater began to seep into the tunnels, gradually flooding them.

The depth of the flooded quarry is currently 12 meters. In the past, it was up to 18 meters, but the bottom is now covered with a thick layer of mud. Swimming in the lake is forbidden; however, many people violate this rule, and several have already paid the price. The water near the surface warms up pleasantly, but the lower currents are cold, forming whirlpools that can pull a swimmer under. The lake is often used by divers, who have found, for example, a World War II grenade at the bottom. They could also tell you about the secrets of the flooded tunnels, where various reminders of former mining remain and where trout allegedly swim, which are white and blind due to life in the dark.

Asfaltové jazero is a popular spot for fishermen. The surrounding area offers interesting walks during which, on warm days, you can observe natural asphalt on the quarry walls melting with the heat and slowly trickling down. As part of the former quarry, the chapel of the patron saint of miners, St. Barbara, still stands here. Several mining tunnels have also been preserved, but entering them is not recommended as they could collapse at any time. You can reach the lake from the village of Nezbudská Lúčka on foot or by car.

If you spend your holiday in this area, you should definitely stay for a few days, because Asfaltové jazero is not the only attraction in the vicinity, quite the contrary. If your goal is to discover history, the ideal choice for you will be hrad Strečno, Starhrad, or Zemľanky and the memorial to the partisans of the Dibrov group in the village of Poriadie. The youngest family members will certainly be enchanted by Rozprávkový les Nezbudská Lúčka. We do not forget about active visitors either, to whom we recommend a hike to the second highest peak of Malá Fatra, Malý Kriváň, or to the lookout tower on the hill Špicák. Although you cannot swim in Asfaltové jazero, you certainly will not be left without water, as the thermal swimming pool Aqua Eden Stráňavy or the swimming pool in Vrútky will take care of that.

Finding accommodation near Asfaltové jazero is relatively easy, as the village of Varín is located nearby, offering mostly cottages. The nearby village of Dolná Tižina focuses on traditional cottages and guest houses. A diverse range of accommodation options is also available in Vrútky. You will have all services within reach if you choose accommodation in Žilina.

The Hričov water reservoir is part of the Vážska kaskáda,  dams built on the Váh river. It is located above the confluence of the Váh river with the Rajčianka and Kysuca rivers near the village of Divinka in the Žilinský kraj. It is 8 kilometers away from the town of Žilina and 11 kilometers from the town of Bytča. The water reservoir also features the hydroelectric power plant of the same name, Hričov. The surroundings of the Hričovská nádrž and the Váh are mainly used by cyclists. If you love cycling or long walks, be sure to take a trip to this water reservoir.

Construction of the Hričov water reservoir began in 1958. This was mainly due to numerous floods that caused considerable difficulties for the people from local villages. During construction, a part of the Žilina city district of Strážov had to be flooded. Fortunately, other surrounding villages such as Horný Hričov or Dolný Hričov remained untouched. A hydroelectric power plant was also put into operation near the water dam in 1962. Due to the influx of impurities, the water in the reservoir is not suitable for swimming or water sports.

However, if you like fishing, the Hričov water body is made for it. Fishermen come here from far and wide to enjoy proper fishing. Carp fish thrive here, and you can catch carp, catfish, zander, grass carp, or pike on a rod. Moreover, the peaceful environment as well as easy access to the water ensures perfect fishing.

Along the Hričov water reservoir, you will find several cycling routes. From the reservoir heading south, a cycling route up to 28 kilometers long runs along the Hričovský kanál. You can head towards Bytča and admire the nearby Súľovské skaly in the background. From the Hričovská nádrž, it is not far by bike or even on foot to the Budatínsky hrad.

If you go on holiday to this locality, we offer you accommodation near the Hričov water reservoir or accommodation in the Žilina district on our portal. You will also find other tips for trips around the surroundings with us. Book accommodation according to your taste on our websites, go on holiday, and discover the beauties of Hričov.