Jarun Lake

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.

Background

Lake Jarun was formed by the Sava River and lies on the southern edge of Jarun, a neighbourhood in southwestern Zagreb named after it; the lake is about 2.25 kilometres long. Building in Jarun started at the end of the 1970s, while it was still a village, and picked up in 1987 with the sports and leisure centre made for the Universiade in Zagreb. The local council area of Jarun covers 398.06 hectares and had 12,149 inhabitants in 2011.

Source: Wikipedia, "Jarun"

What you'll find

• 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.

Before you go

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.