Lakes and dams Suchá Dolina

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.

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.