Top 12 Lakes around Szczyrk
Best lakes around Szczyrk are primarily artificial reservoirs located near this mountainous region in the Beskid Mountains. While Szczyrk itself is known for its terrain and the Żylica River, the nearby Żywieckie Lake and Międzybrodzkie Lake offer significant recreational opportunities. These man-made lakes integrate with the natural landscape, providing diverse water-based activities and scenic views. The area is a destination for those seeking both mountain and water experiences.
Best lakes around Szczyrk
- The most popular lakes is Czerniańskie Lake,…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Ignacy Mościcki Dam
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Wapienica Dam
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Gravel Path Along Żywiec Lake
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Tip by
Czerniańskie Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
View of Lake Międzybrodzkie
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Szczyrk.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The President Ignacy Mościcki Dam – a concrete and earth dam built in 1929–1932 on the Wapienica River and the Barbara stream in the town of Wapienica (today a district of Bielsko-Biała). The reservoir created by damming the water is called Wielka Łąka Lake. Due to the purpose of the reservoir (water collection for consumption purposes), its banks are inaccessible to the public (the reservoir is covered by a direct sanitary protection zone), while the catchment areas of the Wapienica, Barbara and Żydowski streams constitute a strict protection zone. The water in the reservoir meets the standards for Class I water purity in terms of physicochemical and bacteriological parameters. This condition has been maintained since 1993. There is no fishing economy here in any form and there is a ban on practicing water sports. There are also filter stations that purify water for municipal purposes.
1
2
This view will blow you away - not far from Rogacz Mountain, here from this path there is a brilliant view of Lake Międzybrodzkie below through the green hills. You can also see, of course, Międzybrodzie Białe and the surrounding towns below, and the panorama of the hills and mountains is fantastic.
0
0
Lake Międzybrodzkie is a popular reservoir in the Beskid Mały Mountains, located between Międzybrodzie Bialskie and Międzybrodzie Żywieckie. There are numerous walking and cycling paths around the lake, and the nearby mountains offer interesting scenic routes. In the season, it is worth arriving in the morning to avoid crowds and find a parking space more easily.
1
0
This smooth, hard-packed, generally flat gravel path follows the embankments of Żywiec Lake. This is a great spot to ride your bike and take in the views over the water.
0
0
The dam in the Vistula, which creates Lake Czerniańskie. Construction completed in 1973. This is where the Wisełka River begins, which, after joining the Malinka stream a little further, forms the Vistula River.
1
0
A very nice section along the embankment with a view of the Żywieckie Lake. Unfortunately, the path is not very wide, so be careful with pedestrians, I advise you to visit this place during the week due to less traffic.
0
0
A picturesque trail along the shore of the Żywieckie lake.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes to visit near Szczyrk?
The primary lakes near Szczyrk are the artificial reservoirs of Żywieckie Lake and Międzybrodzkie Lake, both offering extensive recreational opportunities. Additionally, you can visit Czerniańskie Lake, known for its beautiful views and as the starting point of the Wisełka River, and the area around the historic Ignacy Mościcki Dam, which created the Wielka Łąka lake.
What water sports can I do on the lakes near Szczyrk?
Żywieckie Lake is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts, particularly for sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing. Międzybrodzkie Lake offers numerous water equipment rentals where you can find kayaks, pedal boats, and SUP boards.
Are there family-friendly activities at the lakes near Szczyrk?
Yes, both Żywieckie and Międzybrodzkie Lakes offer family-friendly options. Żywieckie Lake has public bathing beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Międzybrodzkie Lake features recommended swimming areas in Czernichów and Międzybrodzie Żywieckie, including the Relaks swimming pool with heated water. Czerniańskie Lake and the area around Wapienica Dam are also considered family-friendly.
Can I go swimming in the lakes near Szczyrk?
Yes, swimming is possible in designated areas. Żywieckie Lake has public bathing beaches in Żywiec and Zarzecz. Międzybrodzkie Lake offers recommended swimming spots in Czernichów and Międzybrodzie Żywieckie, including the Relaks swimming pool with water heated to 25 degrees Celsius. However, swimming is prohibited in the Wielka Łąka lake created by the Wapienica Dam due to its purpose as a water collection reservoir.
Are there fishing opportunities in the lakes near Szczyrk?
Międzybrodzkie Lake is a favored spot for fishing, with species like roach, bream, pikeperch, and pike to be found. You would need to check local regulations for fishing permits.
What kind of trails are available around the lakes?
You can find various trails, including the Gravel Path Along Żywiec Lake, which is a picturesque, smooth, and generally flat cycle way offering views over the water. The nearby mountains also offer interesting scenic routes around Międzybrodzkie Lake. For more cycling options, explore the Cycling around Szczyrk guide.
Are there any historical sites related to the lakes?
Yes, the Ignacy Mościcki Dam, also known as the Wapienica Dam, is a significant historical site. Built between 1929 and 1932, it was considered one of Europe's most modern facilities of its kind at the time and created the Wielka Łąka lake.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Szczyrk?
The lakes are generally best visited during warmer months for water sports and swimming. For hiking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. To avoid crowds, especially around popular spots like Międzybrodzkie Lake, it's recommended to arrive in the morning during peak season.
Are there viewpoints offering scenic views of the lakes?
Absolutely. Czerniańskie Lake offers beautiful views, and the Beskid peaks are reflected in the waters of Żywieckie Lake. There is also a dedicated View of Lake Międzybrodzkie, which provides a brilliant panorama of the lake and surrounding hills from near Rogacz Mountain.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides water sports?
Beyond water activities, the region around Szczyrk and its lakes is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes, including road cycling and gravel biking. For example, there are several Road Cycling Routes around Szczyrk and Gravel biking around Szczyrk that incorporate scenic lake views and mountain landscapes.
Are there any less crowded lakes near Szczyrk?
While Żywieckie and Międzybrodzkie Lakes are popular, the smaller Czerniańskie Lake might offer a more tranquil experience. The area around the Wapienica Dam, which forms Wielka Łąka lake, is also less accessible to the public due to its protection zone, making it a peaceful spot for views from a distance.
Most popular routes around Szczyrk
Most popular attractions around Szczyrk
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Szczyrk? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
