Green Lakes

The Žalieji ežerai, the Green Lakes, are a chain of small lakes in pine forest at the northern edge of Vilnius, and the colour is real: fine chalk particles suspended in the water scatter light so that the lakes appear turquoise or milky green in bright conditions, quite unlike the dark peat-stained water of most Lithuanian lakes. Paths and a nature trail run between them through the woods, with swimming beaches, jetties and a viewing platform, and the whole area is inside the Verkiai regional park a short bus ride from the centre. It is where the city swims in summer. Steep wooded slopes and old gravel workings surround the water, and the trails link on toward Verkiai palace.

What you actually see

• Turquoise water - the chalk-scattered colour in bright light.
• Pine forest paths - trails between the lakes and around the shores.
• Swimming beaches - jetties and sand at the main lake.
• Viewing platform - the overlook above the water.

When to go

May to September for swimming; the colour is strongest on bright days and much less obvious under cloud. Summer weekends are busy with city crowds. Autumn colour in the pines and birch is good.

Honest expectations

The colour depends on light and can look ordinary on grey days. Beaches are crowded at summer weekends. Facilities are basic. The lakes are small and the visit is a half-day at most.

Nearby

Verkiai Palace lies south; Vilnius is beyond it.