Ptuj Lake

The Ptuj Lake is considered the largest artificial lake in Slovenia on the Drava River. Ptuj Lake stretches over 7 km in length and is just over one kilometer wide. Its maximum depth is only 12 meters, and its surface area amounts to 346 hectares. For those who like mathematics and data, it should also be noted that the volume of water in the lake is about 20 million cubic meters. It was created when the Drava River was dammed below Ptuj in 1978.

The lake serves as a reservoir for the Formin hydroelectric power plant. Its secondary purpose, however, is more of a sporting nature, as Ptuj Lake serves as an exceptional recreational area for rowing, windsurfing, fishing, as well as sailing, jet skiing, and motor boating.

Near Markovci, the water of Ptuj Lake divides. Part of Ptuj Lake flows to the hydroelectric power plant (Formin) through the supply channel, while the other part continues gently into the bed of the Drava. On the lake there are also two islands, which are very important for wildlife, especially birds, as they provide nesting grounds. Ptuj Lake is also very rich in fish.

An interesting fact about Ptuj Lake is that the so-called Puh Bridge crosses the lake, as well as several footbridges that lead over the channels to the power plant. The Formin Hydroelectric Power Plant occupies the last position in the chain of Drava power plants, but by the amount of electricity produced it ranks second. The power plant is fed by the Drava, which is the right-hand and fourth longest tributary of the Danube.

It is considered an excellent recreational spot and has also proven to be of great tourist importance. For tourists, various boat trips are organized on the lake, revealing all its corners and secrets to curious eyes. And if you go on a trip to Ptuj with your better half, the locals may even suggest a romantic spot by the lake. On the shore of Ptuj Lake there is also the Ranca Bar, which is open on weekends from eight in the morning until midnight, and during the week it closes two hours earlier, at ten in the evening; opening hours are always the same. Here you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a coffee.

For the more sporty souls, there are also several sports fields by the lake, including a football field, a volleyball court, and a handball court. In addition, there are plenty of different walking and hiking trails as well as cycling routes. Those who are particularly fond of beach volleyball will certainly enjoy taking part in the annual volleyball tournament called Beach–Master.

Ptuj Lake is also home to the Ranca Marina, which is the only true inland marina in Slovenia. The marina has space for 60 permanent berths for sailboats as well as other vessels with a draft of 1.3 meters or less. Those who would like to sail but do not own a boat can take part in a panoramic cruise on the tourist boat called Čigra, which has space for 25 passengers on deck and sails according to a set schedule. The cruise offers some of the most beautiful views of the entire town of Ptuj and its other sights.

From the Čigra one can also observe protected bird species that nest on the islands. Among others, one can see the cormorant, the common gull, and many more. The Čigra stops at several points along the way, where it is well worth taking a photo or two.

For lovers of romance, perhaps the most beautiful experience is to sit by the lake at sunset and watch the gorgeous colors of the sky reflected in the lake’s waters. Ptuj Lake offers some of the most beautiful sunsets in Slovenia, second only to those on our lovely little coast.