Lake Čiče Becomes a Hit Amid Heatwave

As temperatures show no signs of easing, a growing number of residents have sought relief from the heatwave at Lake Čiče near Velika Gorica. The popular excursion spot, also known as the Turopolje Sea, has been literally swamped with bathers these days, who have dubbed it their "city sea."

Clean Water and Natural Shade Draw Visitors

The lake was created by gravel excavation, but over the years it has become a favorite recreational spot for residents of Velika Gorica, which has a population of over 61,000, and the surrounding area. Visitors highlight several key advantages over other bathing spots.

"This is our city sea; it's nice and clean. We love coming here because there's always shade and shelter from the wind," said one visitor. Another bather added for HRT: "A lot could be improved, but here, for example compared to Jarun, the water is much cleaner."

Swimming Still Illegal, Public Bathing Area Planned

Despite its great popularity, swimming at Lake Čiče is still not officially regulated. The Čič Beach Association warns that this remains a key issue. "The biggest problem is that swimming is illegal and property-legal relations have not yet been resolved. The city is working on it. The plan is to establish a city public bathing area here with lifeguards and the necessary communal infrastructure," said Izidora Mihajlović, secretary of the Čič Beach Association.

The City of Velika Gorica has already initiated the process of excluding part of the lake from the exploitation area, which is the first step toward creating an official city bathing area. The project also includes the development of promenades, sports fields, children's playgrounds, and catering facilities, while ensuring the preservation of the natural environment. Visitors say they feel safe at the lake, but emphasize that responsibility lies primarily with the bathers themselves, given that the area is not yet under supervision.