Plastiras Lake | Unleash your Adventurous Spirit in a Destination for Nature and Sports Lovers

Author

George - The Shiny Greece Team (feat. ai)

Located in the heart of Greece, in the area of Karditsa Thessaly, the artificial Plastiras Lake is a true hidden gem that boasts a unique combination of natural beauty, recreational activities, and rich history.

Mountain View of Plastiras Lake | Photo by: ID 94317674 © Dinosmichail, Dreamstime.com

The lake is situated in the mountains, surrounded by lush greenery and fed by Tavropos (or else Megdovas) river, and is a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. In this article, we explore the fascinating history of Plastiras Lake, the diverse range of activities available for visitors, and the mesmerizing natural beauty of this enchanting destination.

Plastiras Lake History

Named after the Greek general and politician Nikolaos Plastiras, who played a significant role in the country's modern history and who was the first with the vision for the construction of the Plastiras Dam Greece, Plastiras Lake was created in 1959. It was built as part of the hydroelectric power plant project that aimed to generate electricity and irrigate the surrounding agricultural lands.

Hill View of Plastiras Lake | Photo by: George - The Shiny Greece Team

The construction of the dam was completed in 1962, and the lake's water level reached its maximum capacity in 1965. The lake covers an area of 25 square kilometers, it is 25.000 acres wide, it has a maximum depth of 60 meters, it has 400 million cubic meters fresh water, and it is used for irrigation, as a power source (hydroelectric), and as main water source for the city of Karditsa.

Activities

Due to its 750 m. altitude (one of the highest in Europe), Plastiras Lake Greece is a popular tourist resort and a favorite mountain destination for nature lovers and fans of alternative sports and families, especially due to the quite unique formed landscape, and it offers a wide range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The lake is ideal for fishing, with the surrounding area home to a diverse range of fish species, including carp, trout, and pike.

Picnic Installation near the Lake | Photo by: George - The Shiny Greece Team

Fishing enthusiasts can rent a boat and explore the lake's numerous fishing spots, or they can try their luck from the shore. The lake's clear waters are perfect for swimming and water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. The surrounding mountains offer a variety of hiking trails that cater to both beginners and experienced adventurers. The lake's proximity to the Agrafa Mountains makes it an ideal base for exploring this rugged and remote region. Other Plastira Lake activities are also adventures with 4x4 off-road cars on dirt roads and cycling the 55 Km around the lake.

Villages

Plastiras Lake is surrounded by 18 beautiful hamlets, worth to visit. Neraida is a village lying at an altitude of 1.100 m within fir trees, overlooking the lake, ideal for short trips to the Alexandri fountain and to the Theotokou Temple (Genoese, 16th century). Kastania is the ideal destination for camping lovers.

View of the Plastiras Basin | Photo by: George - The Shiny Greece Team

Neochori is the most tourist developed village, which offers panoramic views to Lake Plastiras. Kalyvia Pezoulas is the village closest to the lake, on the southwestern side, named from the old constructions of reed and mud in which farmers stored their agricultural products and tools, and which hosts restaurants, cafes, taverns and companies organizing outdoor activities such as horse riding and archery.

The Natural Beauty

Plastiras Lake is surrounded by lush green forests, with the towering Agrafa Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. The lake's serene waters reflect the surrounding landscape, creating a breathtaking view that changes throughout the day. The surrounding area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the brown bear and the wolf.

Equipment and Activities by the Lake | Photo by: George - The Shiny Greece Team

During the summer months, the lake's shores are covered in colorful wildflowers, while in autumn, the surrounding forests turn into a spectacular display of orange, yellow, and red hues. In the winter, the lake is transformed into a winter wonderland, with the surrounding mountains offering excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.

Discover It

Plastiras Lake is a hidden gem that offers a unique combination of natural beauty, recreational activities, and rich history. Whether you are seeking a peaceful escape or an adventurous getaway, this enchanting destination has something for everyone. The lake's serene waters, lush forests, and dramatic mountain scenery create a breathtaking view that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So why not plan your next trip to Plastiras Lake and discover this hidden gem for yourself?

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