East Slovak sea
It is with its approx. 33 km2 (dimensions are 11×3 km) the second largest water area in Slovakia. It is located in the northern part of the East Slovak lowlands about 5 km from the town of Michalovce. Zemplínská Šírava and its surroundings are among the warmest places in Slovakia, summer and autumn temperature averages are also higher than in the Czech Republic.
Water sports, fishing, hiking, bicycles
The area around the reservoir is mountainous and covered with vineyards, there are many hiking and biking trails. The water area itself provides a lot of very good opportunities for water sports and fishing. Cruises are very popular. It is located south of the Vihorlat Hills and has been in operation since 1966. The average depth of the reservoir is relatively small – only 3.5 m, so the water is usually pleasantly warm. On its northern coast there are a number of tourist and recreational facilities. The eastern part of Zemplínská šírava (roughly one-fifth of its area) is a protected ornithological reserve. Almost one hundred species of waterfowl live here, many of which are rare and endangered.