Natural lakes of Slovenia - Podpeč Lake

Natural Lakes of Slovenia

Podpeč Lake

Podpeč Lake, a karst lake on the southern edge of the Ljubljansko Barje wetland, south of Ljubljana, is one of the deepest lakes in Slovenia. With an average depth of around 10 metres, its lowest point is an outflow funnel that extends down to a depth of 51 metres. Almost perfectly round, the lake covers an area of 1.2 hectares and has a diameter of around 130 metres.

The lake is fed by water from seven karst springs and rarely freezes in winter. In summer, the water reaches a temperature of around 25°C and there are bathing facilities on the lake shore.

The lake is home to numerous freshwater fish and is popular with anglers. Podpeč Lake can be reached by city bus from Ljubljana and paths lead from the lake to a number of natural and cultural sights of interest. As well as Krim and Rakitna, sights worth seeing include St Lawrence’s Church and St Anne’s Church, the latter a pilgrimage church offering marvellous views over the Barje, Ljubljana and the Alps.

Janez Bogataj