Jezero Lapovac

Jezero Lapovac is a lake on the outskirts of Našice, a small town in eastern Croatia, in the Slavonian region of Osijek-Baranja County. The town lies at the foot of the Krndija hills, with the larger Papuk range to the west, and the landscape around it is a mix of low wooded slopes, farmland and fishponds. Lapovac is one of the places local people use for a quiet outing, and it is open to the public at any hour. There is no entrance fee and no formal opening schedule, so you can come for an early walk, an afternoon picnic or a calm evening by the water.

The appeal of the lake is its simplicity. The water is calm and framed by gentle hills and greenery, and the shore has paths suitable for strolling and cycling. Anglers come to fish, and the lake has a reputation among them as a well-stocked spot, so on a good day you will see people with rods along the bank. Birdwatchers can look for waterfowl and small birds in the reeds and trees, and the quiet hours of the morning are best for spotting them. If you plan to fish, ask locally about rules and permits before you begin.

The seasons change the character of the place. In spring the shores turn green and birds are active, in summer the lake offers shade and a cool breeze, and in autumn the surrounding trees turn yellow and brown. Winter can be cold and still, and the lake sometimes freezes at the edges. There are few facilities at the water's edge, so bring water, food and sun protection, and take your rubbish with you.

Našice itself has historic sights that are worth adding to the day. The Pejačević Castle, a 19th-century manor of the noble Pejačević family, stands in a park in the town, and the composer Dora Pejačević, one of Croatia's best-known early modern composers, lived here and is buried in the town. The Church of Saint Anthony of Padua is another landmark, and the town has cafés and restaurants where you can try Slavonian dishes, such as kulen sausage and stews.

The lake suits families, anglers, cyclists and people who want a calm green stop on a Slavonian road trip. Allow an hour or two, and combine it with the castle and park for a pleasant day in Našice.