September the 15th, 2025 – Croatia is full of bodies of water, but have you ever paid a visit to the largest artificial lake in Croatia? Dubravsko jezero is so much more than just another lake.
As Putni kofer writes, across the world, lakes have always attracted and fascinated people, whether for their beauty, size or the endless stories associated with them. The deepest waters in the entire world are hidden in Lake Baikal in Russia, which has an incredible depth of 1642 metres, or in Lake Tanganyika in Africa, known for its mysticism. Naturally, a little country like Croatia cannot possibly compete with such global giants.
However, what Croatia is very rich in is its numerous lakes, both natural and artificial, which have become a part of people’s everyday lives. They’re favourite places for relaxation, recreation and escaping to nature. In the north of the country, there’s a special lake that attracts attention with its size and significance. It is the largest artificial lake in all of Croatia, and also the second largest in the country in general, right after the gorgeous Lake Vrana.
dubravsko jezero – made in the 80s!
Lake Dubrava (Dubravsko jezero) is located along the long Drava River, in the immediate vicinity of the town of Prelog. It was created back in the late 1980s with the construction of the Dubrava Hydroelectric Power Plant and covers an area of 17.1 square kilometres. Its length is about 10 kilometres, while its widest point is 1.7 kilometres.
In addition to being impressive in its size, the largest artificial lake in Croatia also has important economic significance. Along with the hydroelectric power plant, this large lake is part of a more expansive system of artificial reservoirs dotted along the Drava River, where the Ptujsko, Ormoško and Varaždinsko lakes are also located. It was named after the village of Donja Dubrava, although it’s actually Prelog that is most closely associated with it.
The largest artificial lake in Croatia is so much more than a technical and energy facility. For decades now, it has been a favourite gathering place for locals and visitors who come to relax here. It’s especially lively near Prelog itself, where a quaint village, a marina and even a small sports airport are located along the shoreline. In addition to all this, promenades and bicycle paths have turned the shore into a real recreational centre that attracts runners, cyclists and nature lovers throughout the year.
a place for fishing enthusiasts
In addition to recreation on land, the biggest artificial lake in Croatia is also a real lure for fishing enthusiasts. The waters are exceptionally rich in fish species, meaning that both experienced fishermen and those who are just discovering this hobby like to come here. The lake’s surface also attracts sailors, who experience it as a small paradise on the water, located just a few minutes’ drive from the bustling centres of Međimurje and Podravina.
In addition to sports and recreation, Dubravsko jezero has also been gaining increasing tourist importance in recent years. The Hot Air Balloon Festival brings a truly special charm to it and is an event that attracts visitors from all over Croatia and abroad every single year.
During these days, the sky above the lake turns into a magical stage, filled with colourful balloons floating above in the usually deep blue sky. The scene is so striking that it has become one of the most beautiful postcards of Prelog and an unavoidable motif for photographers and romantic souls alike.
prelog – charm in a little time capsule
The town of Prelog is a true gem of gorgeous green Međimurje. Although small, it offers the charm of a quiet continental town where tradition and modern life meet. Prelog is known for its warm hospitality, well-maintained promenades and extensive cycling paths. It is also well known for its various events that attract visitors throughout the year without fail. In its immediate vicinity, beautiful, unspoiled nature is within reach, and Dubravsko jezero gives it a special touch and turns it into a destination that can be truly enjoyed, whether you come for sport, relaxation or simply looking for a peaceful break away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
