The largest coal deposit in Slovenia is located underground in the Šalek Valley. More than 230 million tons of coal have been mined in that area. Mining activity has permanently marked the image of the valley and its people. Where once there were villages, today there are lakes, the result of almost 150 years of lignite extraction.
With a surface area of almost 1.4 km² and a volume of over 30 million m³, Velenje is the largest of the three lakes in the Šalek valley and among the largest in Slovenia, comparable to that of Bled. Its catchment area extends for more than 20 km². The lake is 1.4 km long and 1.3 km wide. With a depth of 54 m it is deeper than Lake Bled (31 m) and Lake Bohinj (45 m). On the south-eastern shore, at Plaža Velenje, there is a very popular beach, declared the best natural beach in Slovenia in 2018 and 2022. This place offers many opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, SUP and rowing. The area can count on numerous rooms, equipment, and an inflatable water park.
Nestled among green hills, it is also a fantastic place for family travellers. There is no shortage of entertainment, as well as opportunities to play sports or stay near the lake. Relaxation is ensured by clean water, services, free use of deck chairs and tidy wooden surfaces.