Plateliai Lake, recognized as the largest and deepest lake in Žemaitija, is a valuable asset not only for its natural beauty but also for its cultural heritage. With a depth reaching 48.5 meters, and the inflow of 17 streams and the outflow of the Babrungas River, it creates a dynamic water system. The lake is renowned for its impressive Castle Island, where in the 15th century, a castle was built by Lithuanian nobility, connected to the Šventorkalnis Peninsula by a wooden bridge, whose 16th-century poles have survived and are now recognized as cultural heritage sites.
The legends and stories surrounding the lake enrich the history of Plateliai Lake, drawing visitors into the cultural tapestry of the area. Castle Island, famous for its historical artifacts and natural heritage sites, is an integral part
of the lake, as are other islands and peninsulas within the lake, recognized as state-protected natural heritage sites.
The islands of the lake – Castle Island, Veršių, Briedsalės, and others – serve as living books of natural history, while the waters and shores of the lake harbor unique biological and cultural treasures. Plateliai Lake and its surroundings, shaped by both natural forces and human activity, represent a unique corner of the Žemaitija region, offering visitors both educational and aesthetic experiences.
The cultural and natural values of Plateliai Lake, from ancient bridges to rare plant and animal species, make this area not only a splendid tourist destination but also an important natural and cultural heritage site that must be preserved and cherished for future generations.