A Spring Escape to Lake Kerkini

Surrounded by meadows and farms, with Mount Belles gracing the skyline within the background, Lake Kerkini is at its best within the spring. The panorama is painted in inexperienced and yellow hues, dotted with wildflowers, because the lake’s floor blooms with water lilies. Little shock that award-winning arthouse auteur Theo Angelopoulos selected this idyllic setting for scenes in his 2004 movie “The Weeping Meadow.”

April and Could are additionally nice months for birdwatching, as over 300 species will be noticed right here. Dalmatian pelicans, cormorants, cranes, noticed eagles, spoonbills, wild geese and the uncommon lesser white-fronted goose make appearances on the lake’s water, alongside its shores and within the forest rising close to its banks.

The lake presents a plethora of different out of doors actions, the preferred being excursions in conventional wood boats or canoes. A number of corporations within the space, particularly within the village of Kerkini, present this service. You may also discover the world on horseback or by bicycle – both rented or your individual.

The village of Ano Poroia is an efficient place to remain as it’s situated 13 kilometers from Kerkini and boasts spectacular views of the lake. The dense forest of airplane and beech timber begins simply above the village, crisscrossed by trails for climbing. About 24 kilometers away lies Neo Petritsi, close to the Lontza Valley. The Sultanitsa stream creates small waterfalls and pure swimming pools in a fairytale setting, excellent for a peaceable stroll earlier than having fun with a meal in one of many native tavernas.

Historical past buffs shouldn’t miss Fort Roupel, which was a part of the “Metaxas Line” constructed between 1936 and 1940 to defend Greece’s northern borders. In April 1941, the fort grew to become the positioning of a fierce battle between Greek and German forces. The 4-kilometer underground tunnel community performed a vital position within the resistance. Right now, the fort is maintained by the navy, and admission is free. Guests can discover the tunnels and shelters, and examine displays of weapons, artillery, uniforms and flags within the on-site museum.

If you end up craving some city bustle, the town of Serres is 61 kilometers from Kerkini. Its vigorous middle options pedestrian-friendly streets lined with retailers, cafes and eateries.

Native delicacies

No journey to Lake Kerkini is full with out sampling its wealthy native delicacies. The area is known for its water buffalo meat, which is each lean and flavorful. A basic is the buffalo stew, a slow-cooked delicacy in a wealthy tomato-based sauce, typically served with handmade pasta or mashed potatoes.

Don’t miss the wild mushrooms from close by forests, or the freshwater fish like carp and catfish caught straight from the lake. Pair your meal with a glass of native wine or tsipouro for the complete northern Greek countryside expertise.

Scrumptious spicy soutzoukakia meatballs, sausages and stew made with buffalo meat are served on the taverna Evora in Makrinitsa (Tel. (+30) 23270.233.95), whereas the homeowners of Myrovali in Chrysochorafa (Tel. (+30) 23250.513.40) head out fishing on the lake every single day and showcase their catch, often carp, in a wide range of dishes. There’s additionally good trout within the space, although primarily coming from a farm within the village of Ano Poroia, which can be house to the taverna Pestrofes (Tel. (+30) 23270.515.00), the place can get pleasure from this excellent fish grilled, smoked as a fillet, or breaded and fried. Throughout the area, you’ll additionally discover the native Tzoumagias sausage, named after the previous title of the close by city of Irakleia. It’s a skinny, gentle sausage constituted of choose pork. Attempt it together with different native meats at O Sakis grillhouse in Kalokastro (Tel. (+30) 23220.632.84).

Buying

There are a couple of native delicacies that you simply actually ought to fill up on earlier than heading again house. Tzoumagias sausages from Panagiotakis (62 Polytechneiou, Irakleia, Tel. (+30) 23250.225.88). Buffalo meat soutzoukakia from Boras Butcher Store (Livadia, Tel. (+30) 23270.311.09). Pasta made with buffalo milk from Ano Poroia Pasta (Ano Poroia, Tel. (+30) 23270.515.53). For conventional merchandise – all the things from jams and spoon sweets to frumenty and hilopites (egg noodles) – go to Niviasta cafe in Ano Poroia (Tel. (+30) 6973.901.746), which can be an outlet for the Ladies’s Agrotourism Cooperative.

Ideas

The plains of Serres actually come alive in spring, remodeling right into a vibrant canvas full of colours, scents and scenic landscapes. The roads are principally straightforward and straight, and the quick distances between locations make it straightforward to discover so much in a brief period of time. Make sure to cease by the village of Lithotopos to see the Kerkini Dam, and take a drive to Agistro, close to the Greek-Bulgarian border, to expertise a standard hammam bathtub. Don’t be afraid of racking up some kilometers – this area is made for excursions.