Lake Balsys Viewpoint

Lake Balsys covers 55 ha; it is about two kilometres long, up to almost half a kilometre wide, and its shoreline is more than 5 km long. In every season the water of the lake is a vivid green, even under the ice, which is why it is also called the Green Lake. The lake is fed by groundwater rich in dissolved carbonates. These not only colour the water green but also settle on the lake bed, forming layers of freshwater limestone. The shores of Lake Balsys are winding, but without deep bays or peninsulas. The slopes are high and steep; only in the north-western part are the shores low and boggy. The slopes have many small springs. The shallow littoral zone is fairly narrow, and the bottom is covered with gravel, pebbles and fine sand (in places mixed with carbonate silt). There is a beach on the southern shore of the lake. A scenic 10 km walking and cycling route runs around the lake. The viewpoint offers a wonderful view of the lake and forests, and there is a rest stop for visitors' convenience.