While Bohinj may be the largest permanent lake in Slovenia, Cerknica is the largest intermittent lake. If you’ve never heard of an intermittent lake, you’re in good company. Neither had I until I came to Slovenia. Let’s pay a visit to find out what this means…
What is the size of Cerknica, and how does it disappear?
The lake’s normal size is around 26 square kilometres, or 10 square miles. During dry periods, the lake, which has a mean depth of only 6.1m (20ft), drains into the underground karst reservoirs from which it is fed. When these fill up during rainy periods, usually in autumn, the lake reappears quite rapidly, and can even inundate the surrounding area.
Even more interestingly, the intermittent nature of the lake is unpredictable. It can disappear for as long as a year (although this is rare), and appear suddenly almost without warning. Some of the reservoirs from which it is fed lie above lake level, and these fill up quickly during rainy periods only to drain out into the lower reservoirs and fill the lake.
Visiting the Lake
The lake (when present) is a popular spot for fishing and canoeing. It is possible to arrange a canoe safari expedition which includes a visit to some exciting karst cave systems. There are many hiking and cycling trails around the lake, and it is a haven for wetland birds. In fact the whole area is rich in biodiversity. There is a small museum, café and visitor centre where you can find lots of itineraries, and learn more about the lake.
It is also interesting to visit the lake during dry periods and witness the amphibious vegetation. I would love to actually witness its appearance or disappearance, but I guess you’d have to be either local or lucky to be there at the right time. If I ever get to see this, I’ll be sure to take a video!
Lake Cerknica is a 45-minute drive from Ljubljana, or around one hour from Koper if you are leaving from the coast.
You can find more images from Cerknica by visiting my Instagram. I hope you enjoyed this Postcard from Slovenia: please stay tuned for more…
Srečno pot!
Ingrid
Wow! Nature can amaze us in so many ways. Thank you for bringing this to our light. Would really like to visit Cerknica Lake one day and the whole of Slovenia for that matter. It is a magical place to be.
It looks so magical as well!
It is 😎
Thanks, it is very beautiful and I recommend visiting!
Thank you, Ingrid. This was so interesting! Thank you for sharing. I’ve heard of bodies of water disappearing, but not a lake on a regular basis (not that I’ve ever looked into it). 😀
You’re welcome Merril-pleased you found it interesting 😊
😀
such a beautiful postcard Ingrid. That reflective picture is sooo mazing!❣️❤️💗
Thank you – we were there again today: such a beautiful peaceful place!
oh how lovely❣️
sooo happy you are enjoying🌷
I hope that one day I get to visit Slovenia. You should be paid as a tourist ambassador
An interesting phenomenon. I too would love to see it suddenly appear. (K)
According to the locals, when it disappears the lake bed is covered with flapping fish and a day of feasting is declared, though I’m not sure I believe this story!
That’s pretty amazing. I’ve been to Slovenia a few times but I didn’t know about the disappearing lake!
I’m pleased you found out something new! Hope you get to see it someday 😊