Horka Quarry is located in the picturesque region of Saxony and is one of the most popular diving sites in this part of Germany, also frequently visited by Polish divers. Thanks to its crystal-clear water and a variety of underwater attractions, Horka is an ideal diving destination for divers of all experience levels. In the following article, you will find the most important information about this site to help you prepare for your trip.
Why is it worth diving in Horka Quarry?
Horka Quarry is a body of water with a maximum depth of 35 meters, created after granite extraction ended. Its relatively young age means that the water in the reservoir is exceptionally clear, with visibility reaching up to 15 meters. Thanks to this, throughout most of the dive, there is no need for a dive torch, allowing for comfortable observation of underwater landscapes and vertical walls.
Underwater attractions of Tauchsee Horka
While exploring Horka, divers can encounter numerous attractions that make the dive an unforgettable adventure. Among them are:
- Submerged trees – naturally located on the bottom of the quarry, providing shelter for fish and adding a unique atmosphere to the underwater scenery.
- A bicycle and pipes – left behind by previous divers or remnants of quarry infrastructure, offering interesting features to explore.
- Sharks – not real but artificial ones, created for underwater adventure lovers and providing unique experiences.
- Rocky bottom – although vegetation is scarce, it is compensated by the presence of many fish species such as perch and pike, which can be spotted throughout the quarry.
- Ruins of a submerged building
Diving logistics in Horka
Dive reservation
Before arriving at the quarry, divers must make an e-mail or phone reservation for the dive and potential accommodation at least one day in advance. The quarry operates only on specific dates, which can be found on the owners’ official website – here.
Directions and GPS coordinates
Horka Quarry is located in Am Steinbruch, 01920 Horka/Crostwitz (Saxony). To reach the site, you can use the following GPS coordinates: 51° 15.77’N 14° 14.81’E
Water entry
Access to the water is relatively easy, although descending the wide metal stairs can be a bit tiring – there are about 80 steps leading directly into the water. At the bottom of the stairs, there are two water entries and a wooden platform where divers can comfortably prepare and make final equipment adjustments before entering the water.
Dive base and services
On-site, there is a diving base offering:
- Air and Nitrox tank filling
- Diving equipment rental
- Diving gear repair
- Accommodation
- Access to sanitary facilities
- Dive tables for equipment preparation
Prices are typical for the German market, but the quality of service, equipment, and infrastructure justifies the slightly higher cost.
Safety and diver requirements
Horka Quarry is considered a very safe body of water, making it suitable for divers of all levels – from beginners to advanced recreational divers. There are no particular hazards, but it’s worth following a few basic rules:
- Dive planning – every diver should have a buddy and a dive plan that includes maximum depth and time.
- Equipment suitable for conditions – given the depth and water temperature, it is advisable to use a dry suit, especially in colder seasons.
- Buoyancy control – as deep dives are possible, mastering proper buoyancy control is essential.
Training opportunities
Thanks to its depth of up to 34 meters and excellent visibility, Horka is a great place for advanced diving training and enjoyable recreational dives. Sign up for one of my diving courses and visit this site with me.
Best time to dive
Although Horka is open all year round, the best months for diving are spring and autumn, when visibility is best, and the water temperature is pleasant. In summer, more divers visit, which may slightly reduce visibility due to stirred-up sediments.
Summary
Horka Quarry is a destination every diver should visit at least once. Its exceptional water clarity and fascinating underwater attractions make it an ideal place to develop your skills and enjoy the beauty of the underwater world. With its dive base and excellent facilities, Horka guarantees full comfort and safety.
