Do you miss the sea, but don't have time for a long trip south? Just head a little beyond Žilina, towards Kraľovany, and you'll discover a place that will immediately remind you of the Croatian coast or the famous Plitvice Lakes. We present to you Šútovské jazero (also known as Kraľovianske jazero in the municipal part of Rieka) – a former quarry that, after being flooded, created one of the most beautiful and photogenic bodies of water in Slovakia!

Terraced rock walls plunging sharply into incredibly clear, emerald to turquoise water create a scene straight out of an adventure film. Although swimming here is officially at your own risk, this place attracts crowds of sun and relaxation lovers from the entire surroundings during summer days.

Where it is located and how it was formed

• Location: The lake is located in the village of Kraľovany (local part Rieka), directly below the southern slopes of Malá Fatra. It lies just a few meters from the busy main road between Martin and Ružomberok.
• Origin: It is not a natural lake, but a former quarry that was flooded with water after mining ended. The lake has no inlet or outlet.

Why it is so popular ("Slovak Plitvice")

• Water color: The water in the lake is extremely clean, clear, and has an intense turquoise color. At its deepest point, the lake reaches a depth of up to 15 meters.
• Scenery: Thanks to the water and the steep, terraced rock walls of the former quarry, many compare it to the Croatian Plitvice Lakes.

Swimming and services

• Swimming: During the summer, many people from all over Slovakia usually come here to swim, but swimming here is entirely at your own risk. The water is somewhat colder, which, however, comes in very handy during extreme summer heatwaves.
• Beaches: There are two larger pebble beaches with solid water access and several smaller, harder-to-reach spots. One separate beach serves nudists.
• Facilities: A short distance from the lake, by the main road, there is a large free parking lot near the motorest. During the summer season, refreshment stands with snacks and drinks operate right by the beaches.