From Ioannina to Mountainous Corinthia, we take a tour of five Greek lakes with idyllic landscapes and picturesque villages around them, which are ideal for unforgettable autumn – and not only - trips.
Autumn is a perfect match for the lakes that mirror natures magic in their tranquil waters. They have beautiful landscapes and exude a calm we surely need. From Macedonia and Epirus to the Peloponnese, we give you ideas for short and long excursions that will give you the chance to relax on the shores of beautiful lakes, enjoy routes through autumn nature and visit picturesque villages and archaeological sites.
Autumn escape to 5 lakes of Greece
Lake Pamvotida, Ioannina
The legendary Pamvotida, the jewel of Ioannina, the lake of legends and traditions, offers the ideal setting for unforgettable autumn strolls in the capital of Epirus. Pamvotida is at an elevation of 470 meters above sea level and has a triangular shape with a length of about 7.5 kilometers. To its north, Mitsikeli spreads like a vertical wall and to its south end the eastern slopes of Tomaros. Life in the city revolves around it. The lakeside road is adorned with towering trees that carpet the shores with their leaves. Walking or cycling, whatever you choose for your outing, the route beside the tranquil waters will reward you. Cafés, restaurants and bars along the waterfront make ideal stops for relaxation.
A ten-minute boat ride on the lake brings you to the Island. The Ioannina Islet has around 250 inhabitants and is one of the few inhabited lake islands in the world (the other inhabited Greek lake island is Agios Achilleios in Prespa). Wandering the picturesque alleys between traditional Epirus-style stone houses, folk art shops and tavernas serving local specialties (try frog legs and eel) will transport you to another era.
Lake Orestiada, Kastoria
One of the most beautiful and atmospheric cities in northern Greece, Kastoria is mirrored in the waters of Lake Orestiada and enchants visitors with its nobility and serene aura. Circle the lake at your own pace to savor the beauty of the landscape. The short loop around the lake is about 8 km long and is ideal on foot or by bicycle (there is also the longer one, which continues toward the lakeside villages).
As you walk, you will gaze at pelicans and ducks, as well as the striking sight of fishermen rowing their «boats» while standing. Along the route there arekiosks ideal for picnics, while on the forecourt in front of the Panagia Mavriotissa Monastery stands a plane tree about 900 years old. In the northern part of the lake liesthe Dragon Cave withits ten visitable chambers and seven underground lakes that are worth seeing. Next come thestrollsthrough the picturesque neighborhoods of Doltso and Apozari,with their impressive mansions.For a panoramic view of Kastoria and the lake, climb Prophet Elias Hill. Do not miss the chance to visit the prehistoric lakeside settlementat Dispilio, 8 km from the city, on the southern shore of the lake.
Lake Plastira, Karditsa
It is hard to imagine that this lake, so harmoniously tied to the environment, is a recent addition to the landscape, the result of human intervention. Borrowing the name of its visionary, Nikolaos Plastiras, the beautiful artificialLake Plastira formed in 1959 and located 25 km west of the city of Karditsa, has emerged as one of the most popular destinations year-round. The scene is enchanting, as the lake meets centuries-old fir trees that adorn its shores and offers a unique paradise for those seeking adventure (cycling, horseback riding, canoe-kayak, archery, pedal boats, etc.) as well as relaxation in nature.
The many villages that fringe the lake make perfect bases for excursions and discoveries. Make a stop in Morfovouni, the birthplace of the Black Rider, Nikolaos Plastiras, pass through Mesenikolas, known for its famed wine, visit Neochori to enjoy panoramic views of the lake, watch sunrise from Neraida and drop down to Kalyvia Pezoulas for coffee and food a breath away from the water. It is also worth taking a stroll in the Botanical Garden, near Neochori, a 10-stremma area that will reveal many interesting things about the regions flora. If you want to see the lakes most captivating image, drive up to the Observatory. With the Agrafa as a backdrop and the lake in the foreground, you will take your finest photos.
Lake Kerkini, Serres
At a distance of 40 km from the city of Serresand about 100 km from Thessaloniki, you will encounter the wonderfulLake Kerkini, one of the most beautiful places in Greece. This lake was born from a dam created in 1932 and today is a highly protected wetland and a landscape of rare beauty with views of Mount Belles and the Serres valley. It has been declared a National Park and according to the Ramsar Convention it is one of the 10 Wetlands of International Importance in Greece.
The lakeside vegetation with riparian forests of wild willows, the huge floating water lilies, the great variety of fish, the herds of buffalo splashing on the shores and the wonderful horizon of the mountain ranges of Mount Belles and the Krousia, lend the place a unique charm. Observe the rich birdlife (around 300 bird species have been recorded in the area around the lake) and take a boat ride in the traditional «plaves» to see the lakes beauties up close. You can also go horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking and jeep routes. A short distance away awaits Ano Poroia, one of the liveliest villages in the area, with unique views of Lake Kerkini, lovely guesthouses and good food.
Lake Doxa, Corinthia
It could be a lake in the Alps, but it is in Greece and specifically in mountainousCorinthia. Near the village of Feneos, at an altitude of 900 meters, the artificialLake Doxais one of the most beautiful lakes of the Peloponnese. Snow-capped mountains and the colorful mixed forests of Mountainous Corinthia are reflected in its blue-green waters. Nothing betrays that you are just two hours from Athens. In the center of the lake stretches a narrow peninsula, where there is the small, picturesque chapel of Agios Fanourios, while higher up, on a slope about 2 km away, stands the historic 15th-century St George Monastery of Feneos amidst beautiful nature. There, you will taste the monks famous rose spoon sweet and enjoy from the wooden covered balcony the unique view of the lake.
The wider area of Doxa and Feneos is ideal for a nature escape with stops in stone-built mountain villages and plenty of outdoor activities (hiking, mountain biking, 4×4, etc). It is worth visiting the chief village of Goura with its old stone-built houses and beautiful square, as well as the villages of Feneos, Kalyvia (Ancient Feneos), Steno and Panorama.
