The Great Island on Lake Zarasas is like a cradle that cosily embraces its visitors. It seems incredible, but the island covers as much as 44 ha. It used to be a tree nursery for greening the town, and now it has become the main venue for sports and cultural events, with the town's main beach as well. The Great Island lies in one of the largest lakes in the region, covering more than 313 ha. During the First World War the island was connected to the mainland by a wooden underwater bridge built by the Germans. Later the island could only be reached by boat. In 1958 an embankment was built at the narrowest point between the mainland and the island, and a reinforced concrete bridge was constructed. An open-air stage, a racecourse and an asphalt road were built on the island. Today's twenty-somethings and those a little older, on hearing the name "Great Island", think first of the lively music scene here. During the three summer months the island hosts a dozen or more concerts, several large festivals and traditional outdoor events: folk concerts, creative camps, summer film projects and screenings, concert programmes of regional song festivals, programmes for calendar festivals (such as Shrovetide and Midsummer), resort season opening events and sports events. Those who don't like noise and crowds will enjoy a quiet swim at the island's beaches. Active sports fans will be especially drawn to the 572 m wakeboard cable right here, the largest in the Baltics. Both professionals and daredevil amateurs can glide around the circular course. Thanks not only to the unique wakeboard course but also to the well-developed water transport infrastructure, in summer there are lots of holidaymakers boating and paddleboarding, as well as kayakers training and anglers. Fishing fans will not be disappointed, as the lake is large, deep and rich in fish. Nature here is closer than you can imagine, and the water is as clear as a mountain river. The shore offers a panorama of stunning beauty: the island is fringed with trees, and the renovated beach invites you to stay longer and enjoy the sun and fresh breeze. Once you have appreciated the beauty of the island, we recommend visiting Zarasai, known as Lithuania's lake capital, and one of its main attractions – the observation wheel, from which the lake and its picturesque islands look even more impressive. Time to get to know the interesting and rich Zarasai region!