Quite often, human interventions in nature can prove disastrous. However, this was not the case with the artificial Lake Plastira. Thanks to the construction of the Tavropos river dam in 1959, the result was a rich ecosystem making it one of the most beautiful landscapes in Greece. The perimetre route provides the visitor with one of a kind images, as the calm waters and tree-covered banks mirror the sky and snow-capped mountains, creating an ideal backdrop for great photographs. Surrounding the lake, perched on the mountains, are picturesque villages like Fylakti, Neochori and Neraida. The latter’s name means fairy and judging by its beauty, it is a very apt description. Activities like cycling, horse riding, canoeing, lake paddle biking, paragliding, gliding and hiking acquire a whole new meaning here. One can even visit historical monasteries, enjoy bird watching, explore the Botanical Gardens of Neochori, or simply find a spot and take in the spellbinding landscape.
> in the local restaurants they serve quality local meats, fresh trout and delectable pies. You should no miss wild boar with noodles, boiled goat meat and the famous Thessaly sausages with leeks. The local tsipouro is top quality and just what the doctor ordered for the cold weather.
> Accommodation at Lake Plastira is of a high standard overall. One top pick is Montanema, a “handmade settlement” with independent stone built houses on the edge of the Anthochori gorge – a truly majestic spot among fir, walnut and cedar trees.
