Just 40 kilometres away from the northern town of Serres in Greece and 100 away for the co-capital Thessaloniki, there is one of the most beautiful wetlands in the country and this is Kerkini lake. The unique place is declared as a National Park and is part of the Ramsar Convention. Also, the lake it is among the ten Greek wetlands which have international importance.
Lake Kerkini is an artificial lake which started being constructed in 1932 in the waters of Strymonas which is one of the biggest Greek rivers. In the place, the visitor can explore a wonderful landscape made of riparian forests of wild willows, thousands of water lilies, and the impressive masses of Krousia and Belles Mountains. The lake hosts a high diversity of fishes and is also the ‘’swimming destination’’ for many buffaloes!
Lake Kerkini is an ideal place for the lovers of bird watching. The lake is listed in the top European places for bird watching as hosts more than 300 rare bird species that have their nests here and also they breed. Every year, hundreds of amateurs and scientists from every point of the world visit the lake for research and unforgettable experiences.
Info about lake Kerkini
To reach the the area of Lake Kerkini is easily available as many paths throughout the region lead to the beautiful area. You can access Lake Kerkini from the city of Thessaloniki through the National Road of Kilkis – Thessaloniki or through the national road of Serres – Thessaloniki.
The Belles mountain with an altitude of 2030 meters is the northern limit of the natural border between Greece and its neighbour country Bulgaria. The river of Strymonas which springs from the Bulgarian mountains gives life to the wetland as it is the main source of water for Lake Kerkini.
The initial purpose for the construction of Lake Kerkini was to change the area to a watering land. However, gradually, the lake became a wonderful natural environment which gives a home to many mammals and bird species. Lake Kerkini is not only a lifeline for the fauna and flora but is also a breath of life for the financial situation of the residents of the surrounding area as hosts many tourist facilities.
In the surrounding area of the lake Kerkini have been created many tourist facilities for both Greeks and foreigners. High quality guest houses and hotels wait to host with a great sense of hospitality a large number of the visitors. Your stay in the traditional hotels or houses in the lake Kerkini will remain indelible since they can offer many well-designed facilities such as jacuzzi, whirlpool, steam bath, outdoor and indoor pools and luxury rooms with fireplace and more. Also, many traditional taverns with local delicacies and delicious Macedonian recipes can offer a unique eating experience. For those, who love the meet of buffalo, this is a paradise for eating!
Offering activities
The area around Lake Kerkini in Serres generally offers many opportunities for the lovers of activities such as hiking trails, horse riding and walking in the wonderful landscapes of Lake Kerkini and also archery in special centres , paintball, and motorized stages such as jeep or quads. The visitors can enjoy sailing and kayaking for unforgettable experiences with their close friends. Also, boat tours are available for bird watching.
In the amazing paths of the territory in Lake Kerkini, the many guests combine climbing and mountaineering excursions and refreshing walks by the lake and the mountainous areas, terraces and narrow valleys.
We wish you to take the advantage of the wonderful activities during your accommodation in Lake Kerkini and live some unique experiences enjoying the feelings being in the stunning natural environment of the lake Kerkini.
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