Lokvarsko (Omladinsko) jezero

If you are passing through Gorski kotar near Delnice, leave the motorway and head southwest along the D3 state road for some 7 km — you will reach a viewpoint looking out over Lokvarsko jezero, one of the most beautiful lakes in Croatia!

Lokvarsko jezero lies in the village of Homer in the municipality of Lokve. It covers about 2 km2, is 40 m deep, and is fed by the river Lokvarka. It sits so perfectly in its surroundings that nothing betrays the fact that it is an artificial lake. It was created by building a dam in the early 1950s. The dam went up during the so-called youth work brigades, popular in the early years of socialism, which is why the lake is also known as Omladinsko jezero (the “Youth Lake”). Around 27 thousand young people took part in its construction.

There are two viewpoints along the road, and from some 100 m above the water each offers an unforgettable view of the lake ringed by forest. From the more easterly one (45.35723064754377, 14.721452964182722) you can see the dam and a good part of the lake, while the more westerly one (the “official” one) gives the most open view over the greater part of it. The location given in the information at the top of the article is for this western viewpoint.

A circular trail runs around the lake, and we will walk it on one of our next trips. It reportedly takes some 5 hours. According to some reports, parts of the trail are not well maintained.

Besides walking, the lake offers plenty of other activities. During the summer months it is the favourite swimming spot of this area. The water is exceptionally clean. Exploring the lake by kayak is a special experience, and for those less inclined to that kind of adventure, you can tour it on a rented raft.

Either way, Lokvarsko (Omladinsko) jezero is another gem of Gorski kotar that belongs on your list of destinations if you find yourself in this part of Croatia.