Völkermarkter Stausee, lagoon in Austria
The Völkermarkter Stausee is a large reservoir in Carinthia, Austria, stretching approximately 21 kilometers and reaching up to 1.5 kilometers in width. The water is fed by the Drau river and reaches depths of about 24 meters at its deepest point, with natural shorelines and several small boat launches for public access.
The reservoir was created in 1961 when a dam was built across the Drau river to supply water for a hydroelectric power plant. The bridge near Völkermarkt was constructed in the same year and later received artistic blue and yellow lighting in 2002.
The reservoir takes its name from the town of Völkermarkt located at its edge, linking two local communities together. The illuminated bridge has become a local symbol of connection between different parts of the area and is frequented by residents.
The water remains cold year-round and is not suitable for swimming, especially in winter when temperatures stay well below 18 degrees Celsius. Two small harbors with boat launches are available for boaters and anglers, and walking and cycling paths run along the shoreline.
At the deepest point of the reservoir lie the Teufelsinseln, small islands that remain hidden from most visitors. At night, the artistic bridge lighting transforms the water into a green glow as the blue and yellow lamps blend together to create this unexpected color effect.
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