Alpine lakes

The alpine lakes of the Grammos mountain range—Moutsalia, Kato Arena, and Gistova—form a network of high-altitude freshwater ecosystems of exceptional ecological and conservation value. Located in northwestern Greece near the Kastoria-Ioannina border, these lakes host a rich variety of amphibians, reptiles, birds, and alpine flora. Lake Moutsalia (1,743 m), set among forested slopes and alpine meadows, is a cool, deep-water habitat supporting Ichthyosaura alpestris, Triturus macedonicus, Pelophylax kurtmuelleri, and Natrix natrix, while also forming part of a broader avian hotspot with over 150 recorded bird species. Slightly higher, Kato Arena (1,820 m) features a shallow, silty basin and serves as a breeding ground for species adapted to ephemeral waters, including the Green Toad (Bufotes viridis), Alpine Newt, and Yellow-bellied Toad (Bombina variegata), with mammal activity evident along its banks. Lake Gistova (2,360 m), the highest alpine lake in Greece, lies in a glacial cirque surrounded by alpine flora such as orchids and lilies. Its clear waters support abundant newts, Rana graeca, and rarer high-altitude sightings of Vipera ammodytes. According to a local legend, a kind-hearted dragon dwelled in the village. However, the villagers drove him away, which caused him immense grief, thus shedding a tear which became the lake of Gistova.  Steeped in local mythology and shaped by snowmelt and seasonal streams, these lakes are fragile refuges of biodiversity facing increasing pressures from climate change and deserve focused monitoring and protection. 

Hidden high on Mt. Smolikas at 2,168 meters, the alpine lake of Mosias—also known as the "Dragonlake of the Old Lady"—is one of Greece’s most remote freshwater habitats. Accessible only via a demanding, unmarked ascent over steep, rocky ridges near the village of Samarina, the lake rests in a glacial basin beneath sheer cliffs and shimmers in hues of turquoise, emerald, and blue. Its cold, pristine waters host a thriving population of Alpine newts (Ichthyosaura alpestris), alongside Rana graeca and other cold-adapted amphibians, while the surrounding slopes provide refuge for Balkan chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), old Pinus heldreichii trees, and a rich diversity of alpine flora and fungi. Despite its name, no known myth explains its dragonlake title—though the landscape, with its silent beauty and elusive wildlife, evokes legends of its own. With almost no trail and little signage, the lake remains both a hidden sanctuary and a fragile ecosystem in need of protection. 

At 2,160 meters on the flanks of Greece’s second-highest mountain, the legendary Dragonlake of Smolikas is a stunning alpine jewel, rivaling the more famous Dragonlake of Tymfi. Nestled beneath the peak of Mt. Smolikas (2,637 m), this heart-shaped glacial lake reaches a perimeter of about 310 meters. Locally known in Wallachian as "Lacu-Vinítu" (the blue lake) and "Diverlínga," its deep blue hue—caused by its depth and reddish sediment near the shores—has inspired myths for generations. The most famous tale recounts the epic battle between the dragons of Smolikas and Tymfi, with the Smolikas dragon ultimately tricking its foe using salt stones that caused it to drink so much water it exploded. Other darker legends tell of a cursed shepherd or a golden ram that corrupted livestock and lured herders to a watery death. These haunting stories, alongside the lake’s wild, untamed surroundings of alpine meadows and dense forests, make it not only a place of natural beauty but a cultural and mythical treasure of the Pindus mountains. 

The alpine lake on Mount Vasilitsa, located at 2032m, is a notable freshwater ecosystem within the Pindus mountain range in northern Greece. This high-altitude lake is characterized by its oligotrophic waters, which support a unique assemblage of flora and fauna adapted to the harsh alpine conditions. The presence of amphibian and reptile species underscores the ecological importance of these habitats. Surrounding the lake, the alpine and sub-alpine zones are home to diverse plant communities, including various species of orchids and other endemic flora, contributing to the area's rich biodiversity. The lake and its environs also provide habitat for various invertebrates, which are subjects of ongoing ecological studies. The pristine nature of this alpine lake offers valuable opportunities for research into high-altitude limnology and the impacts of climate change on sensitive mountain ecosystems 

Mount Lygkos, a stunning part of the greater Pindus mountain range, lies on the natural border between Western Macedonia and Epirus in northern Greece. Its highest peak, called “Avgo” (Greek for “Egg”), rises to 2,177 meters and offers sweeping panoramic views of rugged ridgelines, vast forests, and untouched alpine terrain. Nestled just below this imposing summit lies one of Greece’s hidden treasures: Lake Avgo (also known as Lakkos Avgo). This small alpine lake sits in a natural glacial hollow, surrounded by dramatic rocky slopes and meadows that bloom with wildflowers in spring and summer. The lake’s pristine waters reflect the sky and peaks around it, creating a scene of serene, almost otherworldly beauty. The area is a sanctuary of biodiversity. The dense forests on the lower slopes provide shelter for rare wildlife, including the brown bear, while the high-altitude environment around Lake Avgo showcases rare alpine flora and a raw, unspoiled atmosphere. Hikers and mountaineers often begin their ascent from the village of Vovousa in Eastern Zagori. The trail winds through dense pine and beech forests, passes crystal-clear streams, and gradually reveals the high alpine plateau where Lake Avgo rests – a perfect spot for rest, reflection, and immersion in nature. According to ancient Greek mythology, the mountain is named after the hero Lygkos, who was said to have married Pindos, lending a mythic charm to this wild and poetic landscape. Whether you seek solitude, adventure, or inspiration, Mount Lygkos and its alpine jewel, Lake Avgo, offer an unforgettable escape into one of Greece’s most magical and little-explored natural wonders. 

Tucked beneath the peak of Tsouka Rossa at an altitude of 1,693 meters, the Tsouka Rossa alpine lake—also known as Lake Kosmeou—is a hidden gem in the Pindus range, just northwest of the Aoos Springs Lake. Though technically just below the typical alpine threshold of 1,700 meters, it boasts all the defining features of an alpine ecosystem, offering a breathtaking palette of autumn colors ranging from golden yellow to vivid crimson, which likely gave the mountain its name, meaning "red back." The hike to the lake is relatively easy, taking about two hours through diverse and rich forested landscapes. The lake and its surroundings boast a wide variety of inhabitants. Especially notable are the thriving populations of alpine newts (Ichthyosaura alpestris) and an unusually pale phenotype of Triturus macedonicus. With its captivating mix of colors and unique wildlife lake Kosmeou stands as one of the most memorable alpine lakes in the region.

Nestled in the pristine alpine region of Mavrovouni, two stunning small lakes, the twin Flegga Lakes, rest in one of the most untouched areas of Greece. The Mavrovouni, or Flegga, is a mountain in Epirus, with its ridge marking the boundary between the Ioannina and Grevena. The highest peak, Flegga, reaches an elevation of 2,159 meters and forms part of the Valia Kalda National Park. To the south lies the artificial Aoos Lake, while to the north stretches the beautiful Valia Kalda valley. The two lakes, known locally as "Laklou mare" and "Laklou niiko," are located at altitudes of 1,960 and 1,940 meters, respectively, only 100 meters apart from each other on the alpine plateau of the Mavrovouni. The Ano (upper) Flegga spans 5.6 hectares, while the Kato (lower) Flegga covers 3.5 hectares. The waters of the melting snow and local springs collect in the Ano Flegga, from where a small stream flows into the Kato Flegga. When the latter overflows, the water drains into the Arkoudorema stream, which feeds into the Valia Kalda. Nearby, distinctive rocky formations, shaped by ancient glaciers, add to the rugged beauty of the area. The Flegga lakes are associated with many legends, one of which tells that Pindos, the son of a Macedonian king, was exiled by his brothers and hid in the peaks of Flegga, where he befriended the dragon Lyngo. However, his brothers later discovered and killed Pindos. The dragon Lyngos mourned the loss of his friend  and from his tears the two lakes were formed. The forested paths that lead to the lakes, combined with the magnificent panoramic views from Flegga's summit, create one of the most unforgettable hiking experiences in Greece. Surrounding the lakes, the subalpine vegetation gives way to alpine meadows, with towering black pines and ancient, lightning-struck oaks standing like natural sculptures. 

Verliga, a seasonal alpine lake perched at 2,053 meters on Mt. Lakmos, is among the most visually striking and ecologically rich highland landscapes in Greece. Its name derives from the Wallachian word Vrigga, meaning “circle,” while local folklore refers to it as “Farmakolakka” or “deathpit,” reflecting old beliefs that its waters were lethal to livestock. Though the lake often dries up by late summer, the adjacent streams form spectacular meandering patterns across the Verliga meadows, feeding a small waterfall on the way up—making the site a magnet for nature enthusiasts and photographers. These snake-like streams are central to a local myth of a dragon with a serpent-like form that lived on the plateau. According to the myth, the dragon appeared one day, emerging from the rocks onto the surface of the valley. After slithering along the ground for a while, it vanished once again into the depths of the earth. Its tracks lead to the formation of the streams that can be seen today. The surrounding habitat also supports amphibians like Ichthyosaura alpestris. The area’s combination of folklore, biodiversity, and stunning scenery make it a unique destination for both scientific exploration and trekking. 

Mt. Tymfristos serves as a natural boundary between northern and southern Greece, as well as between eastern and western Central Greece. The ancient name Tymfristos is believed to originate from the word "tymbos" (mound), with historical variations such as Tephastos and Typhristos suggesting a link to the word "ash." The name Velouchi, often used to refer to the highest peak of the mountain, is of medieval Slavic origin, meaning "white mountain." Alternatively, some suggest it may derive from Dorian roots meaning "curved peak," while another theory links it to the Homeric word "vilos," meaning "sky." Located in eastern Evrytania, at the border with Fthiotida, Velouchi marks the gateway to the Agrafa and southern Pindos regions. To the west and north, it is separated from the Agrafa by the Tavropos River and the Agiotriaditiko stream, while to the south, the Karpenisiotis River forms the boundary with the Kalliakouda, Chelidona, and Oxia mountains. To the east, it borders the Spercheios River valley. At an altitude of 1,870 meters, lies a small alpine lake with an approximate diameter of 25 meters. This lake maintains a nearly constant water level throughout the year, thanks to the melting of the surrounding snow, which sometimes persists until June, and the presence of underground springs feeding the lake. The small body of water plays a crucial role for the local shepherds who bring their livestock to these high-altitude pastures during the summer months. The rich grazing fields that emerge after winter's thaw provide ample nourishment for the animals, and the lake serves as a vital water source for them during their seasonal migration.