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Meridiela.
Čitaj na hrvatskomThis page is also written in hrvatski.

Jarun Lake

A lake built beside the Sava for the 1987 student games, and used by Zagreb ever since.

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Typelake
WhereZagreb
Nearest cityZagreb, in the city
Best seasonMay to September
Time to allowHalf a day
Getting thereSouth-west Zagreb beside the Sava; trams and buses reach the entrance
EntryFree

Jarun was made rather than found: the gravel flats beside the Sava were excavated and shaped into a lake with a rowing course for the 1987 Universiade, the world student games held in Zagreb, and the whole complex - islands, paths, beaches, sports grounds - was built for that event. It has been the city's outdoor space since. A six kilometre path circles the water and is used constantly by runners and cyclists; there are pebble beaches on the southern side, rowing and kayaking clubs on the course, and a strip of bars and clubs that make it Zagreb's summer nightlife as well. The INmusic festival is held on the islands each June.

What you actually see

  • A lake built for the 1987 games - excavated from Sava gravel flats.
  • A six kilometre circuit path - the city's running and cycling loop.
  • A rowing course and clubs - still in competitive use.
  • INmusic each June - the festival on the islands.

When to go

May to September; June for the festival. Half a day.

Honest expectations

Water quality varies and swimming is sometimes advised against - check local notices. It is crowded on hot weekends. The nightlife strip is loud at night in summer. Parking near the lake fills early.

Nearby

Central Zagreb is fifteen minutes north-east by tram.

What to pack for Jarun Lake

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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