Mountain pearl of Bosnia and Herzegovina! This is lake Šator!

Did you know that in the very west of Bosnia and Herzegovina, at an altitude of 1,488 meters, on Mount Šator, which rises to 1,872 meters, one of the greatest pearls of this part of the country is located?

Lake Šator, which is of glacial origin and is located near Bosansko Grahovo, thanks to its untouched nature and clear water is a favorite among hikers, nature lovers, and photographers.

The lake was named after Mount Šator, whose peaks and landscapes create an incredible experience. It is a mountain that abounds in rich vegetation and wildlife such as deer, foxes, and even bears, and also offers spectacular views of the surrounding areas.

Lake Šator, Photo: Mico Samardzija CC BY-NC 2.0

This beautiful mountain lake is about 250 meters long and 120 meters wide, with a maximum depth of 6 meters. In summer, its water temperature reaches about 17°C, while the spring on the shore, which feeds the lake, has a temperature of only 6°C. The water is crystal clear and can be drunk directly from the spring.

The lake is surrounded by the steep slopes of Veliki and Mali Šator and Babina Greda, which rise over 400 meters above the lake, creating an impressive landscape.

The shores of the lake and the surrounding slopes are rich in diverse flora. The pine juniper stands out in particular, and on the northern exposures you can find the rare and protected edelweiss plant. Frogs, water lizards, and various types of insects live in the lake, while the bottom is covered with plants from the Potamogeton genus, which gives the water a green color and transparency of up to 4 meters. The surrounding forests are home to various species of birds, making this place perfect for birdwatching and wildlife lovers.

A few hundred meters north of the lake is Bulino vrelo, a spring that the locals believe has medicinal properties. According to legend, the water from this spring helps treat various diseases, especially eye problems. The lake is also known for its exceptional purity and is also believed to have a mystical appeal due to its isolated location and enchanting ambiance.

Lake Šator, Photo: Mico Samardzija CC BY-NC 2.0

The easiest way to get to lake Šator is on the road Bosansko Grahovo – Livno, turning off near Gornje Peulje. From the turn, a dirt road leads to the lake. It is recommended to use an all-terrain vehicle due to the road conditions, especially after rainy periods. Alternatively, for hiking enthusiasts, there are hiking trails that lead to the lake, providing the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Šator mountain.

Šator Lake, with its untouched nature, rich flora and fauna, and crystal clear water, is a true hidden gem of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Whether you are a nature lover, a hiker, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, this lake offers a unique experience, so you should explore it!

Let’s go, shall we?