Krpeľany Reservoir is a hidden gem in the heart of northern Slovakia, where the mighty Váh River meets the Orava just upstream and then widens into a calm, mirror-like body of water framed by forested hills. Built between 1952 and 1957, this reservoir is part of the impressive Váh Cascade hydroelectric system — and it wears its industrial heritage beautifully.

The atmosphere here is serene and unhurried. In summer the water glitters under open skies with green slopes all around, while autumn transforms the surroundings into a tapestry of gold and amber. Strolling along the banks you get lovely views across the reservoir, and just upstream the Váh performs its famous Kraľovany meander — a sweeping river bend that is a joy to watch from higher ground. Near the village of Šútovo on the reservoir's shores you can also discover the Šútovo epigenesis, a fascinating geological feature where the river has carved its way through ancient rock.

• Village of Krpeľany — access via local road from the main highway, easy lakeside walk
• Šútovo village — short easy walk down to the reservoir shore from the village centre

• The reservoir is an active part of the Váh hydroelectric cascade — access to the power station area is restricted
• The area is suitable for relaxed walks and nature watching throughout the year

Fun fact: the Krpeľany hydropower plant feeds water through an artificial derivation canal all the way to the Sučany and Lipovec power stations downstream — making it the highest-situated cascade on the entire Váh River.