Zaovine Lake

Description

Zaovine is a reservoir on the Beli Rzav river on the Tara mountain plateau, part of Tara National Park. The lake was formed in the 1970s when the valley was dammed for hydroelectric power, submerging several hamlets and the old village of Zaovine. Altitude around 900 m, visibility and water temperature vary strongly by season and depth.

Access & Tips

The lake sits above the town of Bajina Basta in western Serbia, roughly 3.5 hours from Belgrade by car. The asphalt road follows the shoreline and reaches several accessible entry points. Because of the altitude and exposure, thermoclines are sharp from late spring onward — expect a sudden drop below roughly 8-10 m even in summer.

Lodging & Food

Tara National Park has a handful of mountain lodges and rental cabins within 15 minutes of the lake. Mitrovac and Kaludjerske Bare are the two hubs with restaurants and konobas serving traditional mountain fare (kajmak, prsuta, trout). Bring cash — card acceptance is uneven away from the main lodges.