Jazero Podkova

Podkova Lake, with an area of about 15 hectares, is located in the cadastral area of Viničky and represents an old meander of the Bodrog River. This meander was artificially separated from the main river flow, while still maintaining a constant groundwater level. It is named after its unique shape, which resembles a horseshoe.

An oxbow lake, or “dead channel,” refers to a part of a river that once formed its natural course but gradually became completely separated from it. The channel is closed on both sides, which causes stagnant water.

Podkova is an ecologically significant area with minimally altered natural habitats, providing shelter for various aquatic and wetland plant and animal communities. The entire area is important for water birds and moisture-loving vegetation.

The site creates ideal conditions for nesting birds such as the purple heron (Ardea purpurea), little egret (Egretta garzetta), great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo), and also birds of prey such as the rough-legged buzzard (Buteo lagopus) and red-footed falcon (Falco vespertinus).

The locality is also known for its rare flora, including white water lily (Nymphaea alba), yellow water lily (Nuphar lutea), and water clover (Marsilea quadrifolia).

A variety of insects live here, such as dragonflies, damselflies, water striders, as well as spiders.

Today, the oxbow lake is fenced and used as a private fishing area “Podkova Viničky.” It is suitable for fishing and boating. Visitors can fish for carp, pike, catfish, crucian carp, and grass carp. Camping is allowed, and facilities include firewood, a gazebo, electricity, party boat rides, and pedal boats.

Source: www.keturist.sk