Lake Czorsztyn

The Czorsztyn Reservoir is an impounding reservoir on the Dunajec River, located in the Nowy Targ Basin, between the Pieniny and Gorce mountain ranges. It was created as a result of the construction of a water dam in Niedzica, which is 404 meters long and 59.4 meters high. The reservoir is not only valued for its hydrotechnical function but also for its architectural significance, serving as an example of an earth-fill dam with a clay core. It boasts numerous tourist attractions, including scenic views, the ruins of Czorsztyn Castle, and Niedzica Castle. It is also home to Ptasia Wyspa (Bird Island), an artificial islet that serves as a nesting site for waterfowl, and the VeloCzorsztyn cycling route. The history of the reservoir dates back to the 1960s, when decisions were made to economically regulate the Dunajec River basin. Construction began in 1969, and the dam was completed in 1994. The reservoir plays many important roles, such as flood protection—during major floods, like the one in 1997, it effectively stored excess water. Additionally, through its pumped-storage power plant, it generates electricity, adding to its importance in energy production. An interesting fact is that the reservoir influences the local microclimate, raising the average temperature in the area up to 5 kilometers around. Despite its many benefits, concerns remain about its negative impact on local ecosystems, including threats to rare plant species in the Pieniny Mountains. The reservoir and its surroundings are becoming increasingly popular among tourists, offering a wide range of activities from sailing to fishing, as well as hosting events such as the Polish Ice Fishing Championships in 2019.