Cover photo © Credits to: Izletko.si
Cover photo © Credits to: Izletko.si

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An afternoon getaway to lake Šmartno

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Lake Šmartno, also known as Šmartinsko jezero, is a charming destination, located near the city of Celje, where you can relax and enjoy your free time in nature in various ways. The lake and its surroundings are perfect destinations for a quick afternoon getaway in nature, a summer picnic in the warm sun or an ice skating session in the winter months.

Picture © Credits to: Kraji.eu
Picture © Credits to: Kraji.eu

Lake Šmartno is, similar to the deepest Slovenian lake - Velenje, one of the biggest artificially created lakes in Slovenia. It was created in 1970 and has always been visited by the locals, but later it began gaining on its popularity and became a slightly bigger tourist and recreation area in the last few years. The shore of the lake is approximately 10 kilometres long and 

Picture © Credits to: Gregor Katič
Picture © Credits to: Gregor Katič

Walking, cycling, fishing and more

There are different paths leading to and around the lake, all of them being perfectly safe and well-marked, as well as suitable for cycling. One of the most popular paths to lake Šmartno starts next to the church called Župnijska cerkev sv. Duha and leads you through the meadows and fields to your destination. Along the entire path around the lake, there are wooden benches, where you can rest and enjoy the view after walking or running, or you can go golfing at a temporary golf course, located nearby. The lake is also a perfect destination for all of the fans of fishing, due to its rich and diverse underwater life.

Picture © Credits to: Ribiška družina Celje
Picture © Credits to: Ribiška družina Celje

Paddling and ice skating

A unique boat, called Ladijska kraljica is waiting for you to take you on a ride on the lake Šmartno. There are also the possibilities of renting an electric boat, a paddle boat or a canoe and trying it out by yourself. In the winter season, when the lake is frozen, it is allowed to ice skate on it, just don't forget to bring your own ice skates. Afterwards, you can have a drink or a delicious meal at one of the restaurants, located near the lake or you can take a trip to Celje and its medieval castle or even visit the magical lights of Christmas in Vojnik.

Picture © Credits to: NEVA KATALENIČ
Picture © Credits to: NEVA KATALENIČ

Whether you are a sports/fishing enthusiast or just looking for a place to enjoy some peace, a trip to lake Šmartno will offer you endless possibilities for spending your free time in nature, doing what you like the most. A lovely afternoon walk or another activity in the area of Šmartinsko jezero is the perfect getaway from the stress in your life and a chance to connect with nature, your friends, family and yourself.

Lake Šmartno
Lake Šmartno
77H8+VW Šmartno v Rožni dolini, Slovenia
Župnijska cerkev sv. Duha
Župnijska cerkev sv. Duha
Ob Koprivnici 1, 3000 Celje, Slovenia

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The author

Karmen Kovac

Karmen Kovac

I am Karmen and I come a green country in Central Europe, Slovenia. I enjoy travelling, getting to know new cultures and learning about myself and the world. On itinari, I will write about beautiful places, unique traditions and other exciting experiences of my home country.

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