Lake Czorsztyn

Lake Czorsztyn is an artificial reservoir on the Dunajec River in southern Poland, created by the Niedzica Dam. It lies in Lesser Poland Voivodeship in the Dunajec valley and is associated with nearby medieval castles.

The lakeshore is noted for views of Niedzica Castle and Czorsztyn Castle, which sit on opposing banks; the reservoir is used for boating, fishing and shoreline recreation. Water-level management and dam infrastructure are prominent features for visitors and local tourism.

The Niedzica Dam was completed in 1994 and the reservoir formed as part of a river regulation and hydro-management project; the two castles date back to the medieval period and have been preserved as historic sites.

The lake occupies the Dunajec valley between the villages of Niedzica and Czorsztyn in southern Poland, within the foothills of the Pieniny and surrounding uplands.

• Formation date: The reservoir was formed when the Niedzica Dam was completed in 1994, altering the Dunajec valley and creating a recreational waterbody.
• Scenic viewpoints: Castles and hilltop viewpoints are prominent features on opposite banks and provide the main scenic attractions around the water.

What to See #

• Niedzica Castle: A medieval stronghold on the reservoir's shore overlooking the dam; dates to the late Middle Ages and is open to visitors as a museum and viewpoint.
• Czorsztyn Castle: Ruined castle remains on the opposite bank of the reservoir, situated on a hill and visible from watercraft and lakeside viewpoints.
• Niedzica Dam: Concrete dam constructed on the Dunajec River that created the reservoir in the late 20th century and regulates river flow downstream.