Things to do at Lake Kerkini

Lake Kerkini and the wetlands around it are among the best places in Greece for bird watching. Rivers, canals, marshes, riparian forests, flooded fields as well as cultivated areas and mountain habitats surround the lake, which is filled with birdlife all year round.

A week's visit, especially in spring, can offer the keen birdwatcher a chance to spot more than 300 species, while a three-day visit in winter might reward one with a glimpse of some of the at least 80 species that could be in residence.

But birds are not all. The area is also home to a variety of mammals, butterflies, orchids and other wonders of nature. The best times to visit are spring, of course, from early April until late June, when the birds are nesting and looking after their young, and autumn / winter from early November until mid March, when the migratory birds will be passing.

Mixed activity programs

These programs include accommodation in a hotel or campsite, picnics, mountain climbing up to the peaks of Mount Belles, instruction in rock climbing, training in First Aid, recognition of local flora and fauna (and tracking), photo competitions and environmental awareness.

Cycling

One can rent mountain bikes along with helmets and other gear in all sizes for all age groups with special attention given to kids. Tours can be arranged for individuals or groups, unaccompanied or with a guide. School outings are always accompanied by a guide.

Exploring by Land Rover

Trips are offered using a Land Rover Defender 110, which seats seven and is perhaps the only jeep capable of tackling all the challenges of this diverse region. In winter the Land Rover can navigate the most impassable routes into the secret places of the wetland and forest.

Canoeing on the Lake

This is the mildest and most unobtrusive way to explore this watery region. Only in a canoe can one really listen to the bird song at dawn and get close enough to photograph the thrillers. Exploring by canoe will take you into the reeds, among the trees and into deeper water. This is perhaps the safest, most pleasant and ecologically sound way to get the most out of a visit to Lake Kerkini.

Exploring by boat

The boats used on the lake are the area's traditional flat-bottomed craft called plaves. Far larger than a fishing boat, they can seat 18 people and using “quiet” outboard engines they are faster too. They are also works of art, crafted entirely of wood according to centuries-old techniques.