Lake Plastiras is a beautiful artificial lake that lies 336 km away from Athens. You can drive there from the capital in about three and a half to four hours. The lake has a fascinating history behind it. It was formed in 1959 when a dam was built to block the flow of the Tavropos or Megdova River. The dam flooded the Nevropolis plateau, which was named after the abundance of young deer. The visionary behind the lake was Nikolaos Plastiras, a military and political leader who passionately advocated for its construction until his death. Unfortunately, he did not live to see his dream come true.
During World War II, a secret and vital airport was built by Greek engineers near Lake Plastira. It was called Neraida Airport and it was designed by the British to refuel their planes on their way to the Middle East. The Nazis were unaware of its existence for a long time, but when they finally found out, they retaliated by burning the nearby villages of Messenicola and Pezoula and bombing the airport.
The lake transformed the Nevropolis plateau into a stunning landscape that we can admire today. The hydroelectric plant of PPC uses the lake water to generate electricity and to water the city and 38 other towns and villages in the prefecture and the wider Thessaly region.
Lake Plastiras has an altitude of 750 m and covers an area of 24 sq. km. It is 60 m deep at its deepest point. The diverse terrain around the lake offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as cycling, horse riding, hiking (on the trails of the Belokomitis educational forest), archery, running, and water sports like hydro bike and canoe-kayak.
How to begin your tour!
The northwest side of the lake is the most popular and developed because it has a stunning view. The main tourist villages are Neochori and Kalyvia Pezoulas. Neochori is known as the balcony of the lake and it has many accommodation and dining options. It was also the capital of Agrafa according to the treaty of Tamasi in 1525. You should visit the church of Agios Nikolaos to admire the frescoes from the 16th and 17th centuries.
The village of Neochori, on Lake Plastira
Neochori has many places to enjoy the lake view and charming alleys to explore. But if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful side of the lake, you can visit Lampros. It is a small village that is very close to the lake and has a privileged location. There is also a beach nearby, where you can find a tavern called “Lampero Beach” that serves delicious meat.
Messenicolas is another popular village with a rich history and natural beauty. Oak and chestnut forests surround it and offer ideal conditions for hiking and cycling. The village square has old plane trees. You should also visit the tavern Tsardaki, on the eastern shore of the lake. It has been operating since 1939 as an inn and it has kept its original style. Its specialty is lean lamb chops.
Lake Plastiras is the main attraction in the area and you will want to find the best spot to enjoy its beauty. One of these spots is the dam. It is a remarkable concrete arch that holds the lake water. From the dam, you can see both the lake and the other side of the dam. Another great spot is Mucha, where you can see the lake’s fjords and the small island of Nyaga.
The Observatory offers the most enchanting view of the lake that everyone agrees on. From this vantage point, you can see the contrast between the lush slopes and the majestic peaks of Mount Agrafa that create a wonderful landscape. It is situated at 1,350 meters above sea level and on a clear day, you can even spot Mount Olympus in the distance. The scenery is breathtaking: the lake stretches out in all directions, the rare birds fly over the water, the alpine forest covers the hills, and the high mountains loom in the background.
