lake kerkini ice
The boat ride across the lake costs 10 euros per person and is a wonderful way to see several bird species even without binoculars. Sausages, meatballs, and steaks of water buffalo meat can be enjoyed. Our guide joked that this was a day of “overcrowding” at the lake as generally very few people make the trip. Lake Kerkini is one of the only places in Greece where water buffaloes are farmed. The elegant hotel rooms each have adjoining balconies that are perfect for watching the sunset over the water. Before 1932, there were irregular marsh lakes on Strymon, one of them called "Podkova" (from Slavic origin, in Bulgarian and Macedonian "Podkova" meaning "Horseshoe", found in Ottoman Turkish records: ݒودقوه كولي Podkova Gölü.[2]). 2021-02-19. In the village of Hrisohorafa, you will find local patisseries where you can enjoy ice cream made with buffalo milk. Here you can experience gastronomy and culture that is very different from the rest of Greece. The room was clean, the staff was very friendly and ready to … The best thing is that a stay at the Hotel Erodios costs just €50 per night. There are also many wild animals and dogs running around which does not make for the most pleasant hiking conditions. For example, spring is best for seeing storks and flamingos. National Park Consequently, it is advisable to do the boat ride first. However, the timetable is limited and this warrants an overnight stay. After observing the buffaloes bathing habits up close, we were later invited to the brother’s farm to see how they are kept. Kazandibi is a dessert that consists of burnt sugar and water buffalo milk. Release Instead, the trails go up into the nearby woodland. Organised tours and public transport connect the area to the rest of Greece. A little cup of ice cream is just 1 euro. 76 of them are recorded in the National Red Catalogue, while at least 31 of them are protected by EEC's Directive concerning wild life. There are just three water buffalo farms in the area. Only two small patches of open water remained - The inlet and the outlet. Actually the lake hosts 227 kinds of birds, especially non-migrants. I believe in pushing the boundaries of solo female travel and I want to encourage you to do the same! These waterfowl are among the largest freshwater bird species in the world, with wingspans stretching as wide as 11 feet. Prices for the tour start from €40 per person. It’s a route of 9km medium difficulty. 5 Feb 2020 12:00 am. LOGISTICS I have always wanted to go to Lake Kerkini, renowned for huge numbers of wintering wildfowl, for its Dalmation Pelicans, geese, herons, Pygmy Cormorants (and Cormorants), Woodpeckers, and wintering eagles including up to 30 Greater Spotted and … In the flat and semi-mountainous area, important hydrobiospheres are developing which are of great international significance and acceptance. There is a small “island” in the centre of the lake filled with wild pelicans! Part of - Latest Highlights / 2020 / March 2020; Availability World wide. However, it quickly developed into a fishing area and wildlife sanctuary. An excursion here also offers a cultural experience and the chance to explore the quaint nearby villages of the Serres region. Kerkini Lake can be enjoyed as part of a day trip from Thessaloniki and Halkidiki, or as a few days spent relaxing in the country. One of Greece's wonderlands,a wetland full of birds A must see if you are in the area, or not. It also acts as a lower-fat alternative tobeef. This entry was posted in client images, galleries, worldwide tours and tagged dalmatian pelican, dalmatian pelicans, frozen, greece, ice, lake, lake kerkini, snow, winter. Photographer's Story: ‘For the first time in almost 20 years lake Kerkini in Greece was frozen over. However, it means that the lake is a lovely place of peace, serenity, and reflection. Whether you choose to rent a car in Greece and explore the area independently, or participate in an organised tour depends upon your personal preference. Although Kerkini may not be one of the best-known tourist destinations in Greece, it is worth a visit if you find yourself in nearby Thessaloniki or Halkidiki. The Bird Photographer of the Year is a bird photography competition held annually since 2016 where photographers from all over the world compete for the grand prize and the title of Bird Photographer of the Year. Lake Kerkini is now one of the premier birding sites in Greece and, as it is situated along the migratory flyway for migratory birds en route to the Aegean Sea, the Balkan region, the Black Sea, the Hungarian steppes and beyond it experiences an interesting migration. She writes for numerous high profile travel publications across the globe - including Forbes Travel Guide, Matador Network, The Times of Israel and The Huffington Post. What makes an exceptional presence is the buffalo's herd in the area, plus the one of the jackelo in the area of Kerkini lake. Touring the region with a local enables you to discover places and meet people that you would not have the opportunity to encounter if exploring completely alone. When you arrive at Lake Kerkini, there is a coffee shop that overlooks the water. Kerkini Lake is situated just 15km away from the Bulgarian border. Indulge at least on a boat ride at all seasons, Lithotopos or Kerkini are good areas to find a ride with very different experiences. Dalmatian Pelican, Lake Kerkini, Greece. Lake Kerkini (Greek: Λίμνη Κερκίνη), is an artificial reservoir in Central Macedonia, Greece that was created in 1932, and then redeveloped in 1980, on the site of what was previously an extremely extensive marshland. Dalmatian Pelican Pelecanus crispus.Lake Kerkini, Greece. Look out for fresh egg pasta served with kavourmas. The banks of the lake are not really suited for walking. As time went by, the lake's capacity was reduced because of the substances that were washed up by Strymon river. (previous page) () Drive to the artificial dam at Lithotopos. While the trails offer excellent viewpoints from high above the water, they do not enable you to get up close and personal with the birds and wildlife. 01637611. Today, the farms operated by three brothers. You may see them strolling into nearby streams to soak and relax beneath the sun. It is tastier than it may sound! Dalmatians on Ice. Situated in Northern Greece less than two hours' drive from the city of Thessaloniki, Lake Kerkini offers some of the finest birdwatching in Europe. You can find some good deals on Booking.com. Buffalo meat is highly regarded here on account of its flavour. The lake was created in 1932 as an artificial reservoir. Dalmatian pelicans on ice, Lake Kerkini, Greece (© Guy Edwardes/Minden Pictures) by editor | Feb 24, 2021 | Photo of the Day The three shaggy-coiffed birds you see here are Dalmatian pelicans, posing on chilly Lake Kerkini in Greece. As such, it should be noted that while it is possible to visit the lake while it’s frozen during the winter, temperatures often dip as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius. Taken altogether, these constitute a very special atmosphere. 2021-02-19. The lake's main water source is the Strymon River, although it is also fed by the Kerkinitis river from Krousia. If you wish to spend longer in Lake Kerkini, you have plenty of cozy accommodation options available. After the construction of the dam, the form of the initial hydrobiosphere changed completely. Trains depart daily from Thessaloniki to Kerkini Lake. David has visited Lake Kerkini & the Dalmatian Pelicans with NaturesLens for the past 2 years. If you are lucky, you may catch the herd as they are being transported from their farm to the lake. This is cured, salami-style buffalo meat. This is home to a charming traditional taverna that was frequented by former Greek Prime Minister and Politician Eleftherios Venizelos. Prev; Next Kerkini Lake is situated just 15km away from the Bulgarian border. With over 300 species of birds recorded here Kerkini is considered to be one of the worlds best bird watching destinations. You may wish to stay on the banks of Lake Kerkini or in the nearby villages. Congratulations to our overall Bird Photographer of the Year 2019 winner Caron Steele from the United Kingdom for this fabulous photograph of a Dalmatian Pelican skipping across a frozen Lake Kerkini in Greece. Wikipedia. There were only five of us on the trip and we encountered another three people at the lake who were shooting a nature documentary. Disclaimer: High Heels and a Backpack was a guest of Ammon Express Travel on their excursion to Kerkini Lake. You can check the latest rates and availability here. Whilst it might be cold and thin layers of ice may form on the lake's surface, it is the perfect time of year to encounter Dalmatian pelicans who look particularly photogenic in the first couple of months in the year. Thousands of birds, both rare and protected, riverside forests, water-lilies in a large area, fish variety and fantastic panoramic view from the mountains of Belasica and Krousia give it a characteristic tone. My name is Melissa and I’m a full time Travel Blogger from the UK . Scenic boat rides, horse treks, and hiking trails are all great ways to enjoy the lake. That said, all opinions are my own, and I strongly recommend this tour. The lake was created where Kerkini lake was by making embankments on the eastern and western sides and a dam was constructed near the village of Lithotopos, which started functioning in 1932. Here, you can pick up a map of the region which details all of the nearby villages and walking trails. Click here for the latest rates and availability. A bright morning and no wind, the lake was like a mill pond absolutely stunning. This region of Greece experiences extreme temperatures. If you decide to visit lake Kerkini, don’t forget to make a short trip to North Macedonia: you will not regret it.Here you can find some tips if you want to visit this small off-the-beaten-path country in Eastern Europe. Lake Kerkini. “‘I was photographing them at Lake Kerkini and was lucky to arrive when the lake was frozen over,” the photographer said. Summers in Greece can be very hot. However, it is the winter time that Lake Kerkini really seems to come into a world of its own. About 300 bird species have been observed here: some of them nestle, some winter, others stop over for rest or food. Perhaps you want to spend more time hiking, taking photographs, and looking for birds. Lake Kerkini in Northern Greece, one of the most important wetlands in Europe, is considered to be one of the top European bird watching destinations. With rooms starting from just €40 per night, a stay at this charming stone guesthouse is great value for money. Kerkini lake is home to over 300 species of birds, 1300 plants, and dozens of species of fish. Online Date. That said, Kerkini is surely very beautiful during the winter months. You may also find this at certain gelaterias and restaurants in Thessaloniki. Most of the marketing and travel information about Kerkini Lake focuses on Kerkini as a bird-watching destination. The area was experiencing its coldest winter in 60 years with snow & ice on the ground. For dessert, order kazandibi . If you are interested in hiking, it should be noted that there is no trail that runs along the banks of the river. The most essential hydrobiosphere is the one in Kerkini lake. Temperatures can get as high as 35-40 degrees during July and August. The lake is a wonderful travel destination for anyone who likes to take some time out to get back to nature. Lake Kerkini is one of the most important and easily accessible wetlands in Europe. The taverna was also used as a Greek Military Command Centre at the end of the second Balkan war. There are birdwatching possibilities throughout the year with a variety of migrants, raptors, waders and … The well-deserved winning image (above) is of a Dalmatian Pelican taken at a frozen Lake Kerkini in Greece, entitled 'Dancing on Ice'. It sits in the shadow of the imposing Belles mountain range. These all part of a family business which has been passed down through the generations. Hey! If you want to visit the lake, you can sleep in a B&B in the village of Kerkini. Kerkini can’t help but fascinate, as the whole setting seems lifted from a nature channel documentary. WEATHER: a fabulous day with little wind and hazy sunshine/ temp 25C. In Lake Kerkini, 12 different bird species nest in just one colony and it is the first area where, after 150 years, the breeding range of the Dalmatian pelican has expanded because of the artificial platforms created by the Management Body. It sits in the shadow of the imposing Belles mountain range. It is a miracle of nature which came about by man's technical intervention on the natural characteristics of Strymon river. The human intervention usually retracts or takes negative action against the natural processes, Kerkini lake is a rare example, where the gentle human handling had the exact opposite result. The setting here is breathtaking. Lake Kerkini can be enjoyed any time from Spring to Autumn. Best of all,there are no other tourists to have to share them with. We targeted this location for transit while driving from Corfu to Romania, but we discovered that it has much more potential especially for bird watching. For a stay at Lake Kerkini that really allows you to revel in the country vibes, a country guesthouse such as Guesthouse Kerkinitis is a perfect choice. The lake was created in 1932 when a dam was created trapping the water o Strymṓn (Στρυμόνας) river, a river of 392 km, coming from Bulgaria and ending in Strymonian Gulf (Aegean Sea), near Amphipolis (closest big city is Kavala). It dates back to the Ottoman era and was created by mistake! It was photographed by UK-based Caron Steele, who wins the top prize of £5,000 and the title 'Bird Photographer of the Year 2019'. Some of the villages in this area are still protected by the crumbling remnants of old Byzantine walls. And now, after a whole year of waiting, the winners of this year's competition have finally been announced. Water Buffalo Farming Around Lake Kerkini, The Unique Gastronomy of Kerkini Lake and Serres, The Villages of Serres, Central Macedonia, Northern Greece: Where to Travel in Greece's Least…, Day Trips from Thessaloniki 2021: 14 Wonderful…, One Month in Greece: Suggested Routes and…, Greece in October: What to Know and Where to Travel, Greek Desserts: 21 Sweet Treats to Try in Greece, Best Cities in Greece: 20 Beautiful Places to…, You can check the latest rates and availability here, Click here for the latest rates and availability. Lake Kerkini (Greek: Λίμνη Κερκίνη), is an artificial reservoir in Central Macedonia, Greece that was created in 1932, and then redeveloped in 1980, on the site of what was previously an extremely extensive marshland. Meanwhile, winter is the best time to see the endangered and majestic dalmatian pelicans. This page may contain affiliate links. The water extent, which varies from time to time from 54 Km2 to 72 Km2, works out to be useful in two ways: as a technical work of great agricultural utility and as a hydrobiosphere for thousands of water fowls. Have any questions about Kerkini Lake or travel in Northern Greece? Hotel Erodios is a grand hotel that sits on the edge of Lithotopos village and offers some of the most incredible views over Lake Kerkini. Birdwatchers may wish to organise their Kerkini trip so that it coincides with the migration patterns of a particular species. The three shaggy-coiffed birds you see here are Dalmatian pelicans, posing on chilly Lake Kerkini in Greece. 10K likes. The presence of water buffalo in the area has had a significant impact on the food culture of the region. Everything coexists in this peaceful kingdom in a delicate yet dynamic bala… As for the lake, it was completely frozen! Rights Royalty Free Rights Managed. Here on holiday in Macedonia, you too can play a role in the scenario, as you become part of the interaction between people and animals, birds and trees, fields and reed beds, water and fish. I visited Kerkini Lake on a day trip from Thessaloniki with Ammon Express. Lake Kerkini is now one of the pemier birding sites in Greece and, as it is situated along the migratory flyway for migratory birds en route to the Aegean Sea, the Balkan region, the Black Sea, the Hungarian steppes and beyond it experiences an interesting migration. I’ve been living here for three years and would be happy to assist you with any queries that you may have. Lake Kerkini Hiking Routes Route 1. It is the largest of its kind in the country and a rare example of an instance where human interventions have actually had a positive impact on the environment. An easy route of 5 km through fields, trees, and meadows, on the north shore of the lake. Several villages occupy the circumference of Lake Kerkini. 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