Lake Plastiras: A unique getaway!(photos)

History

Lake Plastiras is an artificial lake located on the Nevropoli plateau, in the prefecture of Karditsa. It is approximately 40km from the city of Karditsa. The official name of the lake is Lake Tavropos.

The creation of the lake was initially planned and conceived by the military and politician Nikolaos Plastiras. The lake was finally formed in 1959 with the completion of the dam at the southern end and over the Tavropos river. Its construction was funded by war reparations owed by Italy to Greece, and a French company undertook the construction. Today, the Public Power Corporation (DEI) manages the dam.

Today, Lake Plastiras contains around 400 million cubic metres of water, while it has a maximum length of 12km and a width of up to 4km. The greatest depth is 60m.

How to get to Lake Plastiras

Access to Lake Plastiras is very easy, whether you are coming from the south (Athens) or the north (Thessaloniki). Follow the national road and turn at the signs for Larissa. Then follow the provincial road Larissa-Karditsa. Outside Karditsa, turn at the signs for "Lake Plastiras" or "lake dam".

 

The villages of Lake Plastiras

The capital of the Municipality is Morfovouni, located 23km west of Karditsa. To the north, the municipality borders the Municipality of Mouzaki, while to the southeast it borders the Municipality of Karditsa.

 

Neochori

Neochori is located on the hillside directly above Lake Plastiras. It offers an amazing view and has developed significantly in recent years. In Neochori, you will find traditional-style accommodation, such as guesthouses, as well as more modern hotels with various amenities.

 

Kalyvia Pezoulas

In Kalyvia Pezoulas, on the southwest side of Lake Plastiras, there is the village of the same name and a dreamy landscape with mountain peaks and torrents.

 

Neraida

At an altitude of 1,120m, we find Neraida. It has 300 permanent residents, and due to its altitude, when the atmosphere is clear, visibility extends all the way to Mount Olympus!

 

Pezoula

A picturesque community close to Pezoulas Beach. A popular area where people even swim in the summer!

 

Kastania

One of the most popular villages around Lake Plastiras. It is 23km from Karditsa, with a full tourist infrastructure that has developed into an important resort. An ideal destination for both summer and winter tourism.

 

Points of interest at Lake Plastiras

There are dozens of interesting spots around Lake Plastiras and along the mountain routes. Depending on what you want to do and see, you can follow the corresponding route. In Morfovouni, you will find activities such as archery, horse riding, and pedaloes on the lake. You certainly cannot miss a walk to the lake's dam for enchanting photos and unforgettable moments!

 

There are also dozens of mountain trails suitable for mountain biking and hiking.

During the summer period, visitors can usually enjoy fishing on the lake's banks and swimming in the lake.

The areas where you can swim and where organised beaches are located are Lambero and Pezoulas.

 

Tourism

Lake Plastiras offers diverse tourism for all ages. From youth and young people to older visitors travelling in groups – the area has the right infrastructure for everyone.

 

Hotels

In the Lake Plastiras area, you will find dozens of accommodation options – from small guesthouses to large complexes with extensive amenities. In the form below, you can search for hotels in Lake Plastiras and find the one that suits you. Please note that you will always find the lowest prices for hotels in Lake Plastiras online!

 

Karditsa

Karditsa is approximately 23km from the first village of the Lake, Kastania. It is a vibrant city known for its beautiful and lively atmosphere. In Karditsa, you will find everything you need for your stay, from personal shopping to supermarket purchases for essential items.

 

What we visited – what activities to do – where to eat

To write this mini-guide, we naturally took a trip to Lake Plastiras and visited the most important places we recommend, as Travelo.gr. In summary, regarding activities, we suggest:

• • Horse riding, archery, and pedaloes at Zampetas Estate, in Morfovouni (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Saloon-Ζαμπέτας-ΙππασίαΤοξοβολία-Λ-Πλαστήρα-187287441287642/)

• • Definitely eat at the tavern "To Fragma" – about 3km from the lake's dam – head a little up the mountain. A cult tavern with excellent meats!

• • Lake Dam: You will find traditional items made by local associations, which you can buy and take home. You will also take amazing photos with an outstanding landscape!

• Tour of the lake: You will need about 1 hour and 30 minutes – considerably more if you stop for breaks, photos, etc. But it's worth doing a tour of the lake and exploring all the areas!

Where to stay

We stayed for 2 nights at the hotel "Oneiron Akri". It was a very welcoming hotel-guesthouse with lovely rooms and an excellent mountain view (see photos below). The prices were very good (Shrove Monday long weekend for €65 / night). The hotel was well-maintained, and breakfast was quite rich.

In general, all hotels and people in the area are very hospitable and willing to help you.

Search for your own hotel in Lake Plastiras.

 

Photos from Lake Plastiras

See the full collection of photos from Lake Plastiras on Flickr here!