Lake Dubrava, reservoir
Lake Dubrava is a reservoir in northern Croatia, formed on the Drava River near the town of Prelog. The lake is bordered by an asphalted dam crest on one side and open shoreline on the other, and its water feeds the Dubrava hydroelectric plant.
The Dubrava hydroelectric plant was completed in 1989, flooding the former river valley and creating the lake that exists today. It was one of the last major infrastructure projects finished in Yugoslavia before the country dissolved.
The name comes from the nearby village of Donja Dubrava, which sits right beside the dam. Along the shore, locals use the water for fishing, boating, and walking, making it a place where everyday leisure and working infrastructure meet.
The dam is the easiest starting point for a visit, offering a clear view over the water and a paved path along its crest for walking or cycling. On the western shore, a small marina with boat rentals and a few cafes make it easy to spend time near the water.
A small airfield sits right next to the western shore of the lake, which is unusual for a reservoir setting. It hosts a regular hot air balloon festival, where balloons launch from the waterside and drift above the lake.
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