Freshwater sports and relaxation
Start your exploration of Slovakia’s waterscapes at its primary role of flood protection, which is also used to generate electricity.
Liptovská Mara has its secrets, too. Although thirteen villages had to give way for its construction in 1969, a great many important historical monuments were saved from these communities. These relics are on display at the nearby skanzen, or outdoor museum — the Múzeum liptovskej dediny (Liptov Village Museum) in Pribylina.
Beyond the reservoir’s industrial role is the relaxation it offers. Also called the Liptovské more (Liptov Sea), it is one of the most sought-after places in the country to enjoy being on or alongside the water.
Things to do and experience at Liptovská Mara and its surroundings
- Water sports: In summertime, Liptovská Mara is a paradise for water sports: swimming, boating, surfing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking and wake surfing.
- Sightseeing cruises: From the dock at Liptovský Trnovec, take sightseeing cruises on solar-powered catamarans for fantastic views of the beautiful natural surroundings.
- Fishing: The reservoir is known for its excellent fishing and a relaxing, peaceful environment.
- Liptovský Trnovec Recreation Center: Make use of the beach, playgrounds, sports equipment rentals, and swimming pools with small paddle boats. Kids adore the inflatable jumping castle and bungee trampoline, which make for loads of family fun.
Orava Reservoir
Slovakia’s largest body of water, covering 35 square kilometers, is visually stunning. For industrial and environmental reasons, several villages had to be sacrificed for the dam and reservoir, yet this unavoidable change created beautiful scenery.
However, the water didn’t rise high enough to cover the church located at the top of the village of Slanica. Instead, it formed an island with a special atmosphere. This spiritual shrine remained untouched, and today it serves as the of the Orava Reservoir. The Slanica Island of Art is now a much sought-after site, a spiritual legacy as well as a place for holding cultural events.
Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum
Less than 20 kilometers from Slovakia’s capital city stands one of the most romantic museums of modern art in Europe — the Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum. The gallery stands on a peninsula surrounded on all sides by the waters of the Danube, a unique location that attracts exceptional projects. It is not only symbolically protected by the water element, but the river gives the site a unique aural and visual backdrop.
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Liptovská Mara
It spreads out between the towns of Liptovský Mikuláš and Ružomberok, not far from the Nizke and Západné Tatry mountains.
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Liptovská Mara
During the summertime, Liptovská Mara is a paradise for lovers of water sports – swimming, boating, surfing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking or wakesurfing.
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Slanica Island of Art
Set in northern Slovakia’s Orava Reservoir, Slanica Island is a peaceful cultural landmark with a fascinating past.
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Danubiana Gallery
Just 12 miles south of Bratislava, the Danubiana Gallery sits dramatically on a peninsula surrounded by the Danube River and its one of Europe’s most unique modern art museums.
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