Ispas Lake in Bukovyna: Emerald wonder wrapped in beauty and legends
Amazing Ispas Lake near Vyzhnytsia (collage: RBC-Ukraine)
Which lake in Bukovyna is called the "emerald bath"? It is Ispas Lake, a stunningly beautiful body of water with clear greenish water that fascinates every traveler. Here you can feel the silence of the Carpathians, see unique landscapes, and hear the legends surrounding this place. Here is where Ispas Lake is located, why it is unique, and which legends are told about it.
Where Ispas Lake is located
Ispas Lake is situated in the village of Ispas in Bukovyna, not far from Vyzhnytsia. This picturesque corner attracts tourists who come to witness a true natural wonder. The lake has a distinctive greenish-turquoise shade, because of which it is named "emerald bath."
Ispas Lake is also often called the "Bukovyna Maldives," as its water is so transparent and calm that it resembles a popular resort.
What this lake looks like
The lake lies within the village of Ispas, which stretches along the Cheremosh River, 65 kilometers from Chernivtsi. Its area is about 400 square meters.
The water in Ispas Lake is so clear that on sunny days it shimmers with different shades of green and blue. It is surrounded by Carpathian hills, forests, and mountain air, creating a sense of complete harmony with nature.
This is a naturally formed lake, so its water remains cool even in hot weather.
History and legends of Ispas Lake
There are no official records of the lake's origin. However, locals regard it as a sacred place.
According to legend, the lake appeared after a major landslide blocked a stream. People believed that its water had healing powers and that bathing in the "emerald bath" added health and strength.
Another legend says that a young woman once jumped into the water because of unrequited love. Since then, the lake has sparkled with an emerald color, symbolizing her pure heart.
People also say that once there was a monastery in this area, which disappeared into the ground during a Tatar invasion. Another story tells that lightning struck and burned down a church built on the site of the old monastery.
Gem of Ispas Lake
The main highlight of the lake is the incredible color of its water and its cozy atmosphere. There are no crowds of tourists here, so the place preserves intimacy and tranquility. The lake is ideal for those who want to escape the city rush, enjoy a picnic, or simply sit by the water.
Nearby, there are many interesting sights, such as the Ascension Church built in 1856, a noble estate, and roads laid during the time of the Turks and Germans.
History lovers will also find value here. During World War II, the villagers of Ispas saved Jewish families from extermination, and reminders of these events still exist in the area.
The village itself preserves traditions of folk art, like wicker weaving, embroidery, and more.
How to get there
From Chernivtsi to Ispas, you can travel by bus or car. The journey takes about 1.5 hours. The most convenient way is by private transport since the lake is located in a mountainous area.
For residents of other cities, you first need to get to Chernivtsi, and then to the district center of Vyzhnytsia. From Vyzhnytsia, it’s another 10 kilometers, either by public transport, which runs irregularly, or by taxi.
Why it is worth visiting
Ispas Lake is not just a picturesque body of water but a true gem of Bukovyna. You should come here to:
- See the emerald shade of the water
- Enjoy the silence of the Carpathians
- Hear local legends
- Take unique photos surrounded by nature
You may be interested in:
- Where the Ukrainian Atlantises buried under water are located
- What attracts tourists to the Lanckoroński Palace in Lviv region
- A new unique tourist route through several countries has opened in the Carpathians
Sources: Bukovynian Carpathians travel guide, Vyzhnytsia National Nature Park website, Visit Ukraine, Funtime.
