LOCATIONS: Lake Iskar
The magnificent Lake Iskar is Bulgaria's largest inland lake, stretching some 25km, it is un-missable as you approach it from the main Sofia to Samokov road. Being only 30km south from Sofia, Lake Iskar is a magnet for tourists in the summer as it is the perfect location for water sports, hikers and wild life enthusiasts.
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The reservoir has a total volume of 673 million m3, of which 580 million are in use and the rest is reserve. The reservoir has a drainage basin of 1,046 km² and is 25 km long. It is situated at an average 1,314 m above sea level, its dam being 204 m long and 76 m high. In summer water temperatures reach 32c with air temperatures reaching 45c.
The lake is the perfect location for a family day out or a weekend camping trip. Dotting the shores are many small private coves, the ideal place for a family picnic or a relaxing swim. When the hunger pangs strike, you can dine at one of the several restaurants located around the lake. The most popular restaurant has an expansive terrace overlooking the lake, where you can enjoy your meal while taking in the wonderful views.
"Lake Iskar is a haven for water sports and there are places where you can hire out Jet skis, sailing boats, windsurfs & pedalos ..."
"In summer water temperatures reach 32c with air temperatures reaching 45c ..."
Lake Iskar is a haven for water sports and there are places where you can hire out jet skis, sailing boats, 
windsurfs & pedalos. The well known local Snow and Wake Bulgaria is the perfect place to learn how to wake board
or water ski. Utilising all the latest coaching techniques, new boards, sliders kickers, boats, jet ski's and radio helmets, you will soon be the envy of all shore based spectators as you skim effortlessly across the surface of this beautiful lake!
VIDEO CLIP: Matt Crowhurst combines wake boarding and snow boarding in this exciting video clip (filmed on location at Lake Iskar and in the Rila Mountains).
Lake Iskar is probably the best location for fishing in Western Bulgaria! The lake is continuously replenished by the fresh, clean mountain waters of the River Iskar and is therefore free of all pollutants. Consequently fish thrive here and have been known to grow to very large sizes. The lake is home to many species of fish, the most common found there are trout, bream, pike and carp.
The Samokov end of the Lake (Lavandula area) is where you will find most fishermen. The ultra-keen stay into the early hours of the morning, enjoying the tranquil surroundings and during the summer months the warm climate means that it is possible to camp out overnight.
Off lake activities
The nearby Lake Iskar stables offer various equestrian based activities. One of the most popular is a four day trip encompassing visits to the Seven Rila Lakes and the Rila Monastery. You can also enjoy relaxing rides around the lake, or venture into the Rila mountains with qualified riding instructors and guides.
Off road Jeep safaris are also available, allowing you to visit those parts of the lakes that are hard to access, particularly on the Ihtiman side which is virtually untouched.
For keen walkers seeking a challenge, why not try a hike around the lake? This is likely to take at least two days but there are many places to camp overnight.