Vidraru Lake
Lake formation
The Vidraru Lake is set between the mountains Frunţii and Ghițu, leaning against the Vidraru dam and is where Argeș meets with the Capra and Buda rivers. It is an accumulation lake 14 km long and covering a surface of approximately 870 ha, artificially formed in the period 1965-1966 to collect the waters used by the Vidraru hydroenergetic complex in order to produce electricity.
The filling of the lake began in 1965 when the iron gates of the dam were closed. Almost a whole year was needed to reach the useful volume because the debits of the rivers flowing into the lake add up to about 5.5 cubic meters/second in an average hydrological year.
The useful volume of the lake is 320 million cubic meters but can accommodate up to 480 million cubic meters if necessary in the event of abundant rain.
The legend of the Cumpăna village
It is said that on the valley of Arges, where the Vidraru lake is now, there was a village named Cumpăna whose inhabitants loved the place so much, they chose not to leave it when the lake started filling up and died under water.
It is obviously just a legend, the whole village was evacuated and certain materials, such as the railways were disassembled and later reused. The kernel of truth of the legend is that many buildings, including the Brătianu Home and the village church forever rest at the bottom of the lake.
Why visit?
First of all, the Vidraru lake deserves a visit for the breathtaking view and the clear blue water. In good weather, on Vidraru you can do: windsurf, canoeing, water ski and if you enjoy fishing you will find excellent spots to do so, even at night time. Do note that you will need to obtain a fishing permit from the Vidraru Forestry Office.
The Vidraru lake is well known for its charming camping area. Tourists of all ages can enjoy the calming view and fresh crisp air of the mountain. The camping areas may be found all around the lake.
