The Šmartinsko jezero Lake-Celje

Route Description

About 7 km north from the centre of Celje you will find a large oasis called Lake Šmartinsko jezero. Both tourists and locals love to go there and have a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. It was created in 1970 and it includes 113 hectares of water area. In addition to its original function as a retention basin, the lake and its surroundings have become a lively and increasingly popular sports and tourist resort.

The idyllic pristine nature, varied offer, and above all a safe trail to the water invites and impresses visitors of all ages. Numerous hikers, joggers, cyclists, and pets are on their way to the same destination every day – the Šmartinsko jezero Lake.

A safe, well-maintained and clearly indicated path starting at the Church of the Holy Spirit (cerkev Sv. Duha) in Nova vas takes hikers, joggers, and cyclists all the way to the lake. The trail then forks: to the left, it circles past the Queen of the Lake (“Kraljica jezera”) boat and a modern children's playground, around one of the arms of the lake, over a pontoon bridge, to the Muzelj Boathouse (Gostišče Muzelj) where hikers can rest in the shade of the trees or rent a boat or a kayak. The right branch of the trail leads to a grove perfect for relaxing along the lakeshore.

The path has many benches for resting, and info boards, which tell the story of the lake and describe its fauna and flora. Visitors may enjoy their own food in the designated picnic areas, or head to one of the catering establishments around the lake.