Most people in the world have some knowledge about the natural beauty of Greece but little is known about the components of this natural beauty. Although Greece is mostly famous for its beautiful islands, the sea and the warm sun, what is less known is that Greece also has wonderful mountains with impressive waterfalls! Greece’s territories are mountainous and hilly more than 70% of its total area. In all these mountains more than 100 impressive waterfalls have been created. Those little miracles of nature are one great experience for photographers, for lovers of nature and for hikers. Here are some of the best for exploration:
Karanos and Diplos Waterfalls in Edessa
Edessa, in Macedonia, Northern Greece, is by far the most famous waterfall spot in Greece and attracts thousands of visitors every year for its utterly magical scenery. Karanos (Great Waterfall) and Double waterfalls (Diplos or Dihalotos), along with the nearby imposing cave, prove how nature can be at the same time wild and embracing, wondrous and accessible, impressive and moving. After falling down from 70m, the water ends in the river of Edessaios creating a majestic and quite imposing picture.
Neda Waterfall in Messinia
At the borders of Messinia and Ilia and south of Ancient Olympia, Peloponnese, the canyon and waterfall of Neda is to be found. The waters, which fall from 60 meters high, break into foam and whiten, while the age-long plane trees, the enormous holm-oaks, the wild fig trees, the honeysuckles, the laurels, the wild woodbines, the willow trees, and the oak trees rustle composing a magnificent, charming and fascinating landscape. From the “White Water” waterfall the daring visitors can cross the gorge in the summer following the flow of the pellucid Neda’s waters. The stone bridges scattered throughout the place will allure any visitor to go deeper into its beauty and disappear into the armful of nature.
‘Pantavrechi’ in Karpenisi
Pantavrechi is an area close to Karpenisi, in the regional unit of Evrytania. ‘Pantavrechi’ (always raining in English) is not exactly a gorge or a waterfall. The water falls from everywhere creating beautiful small lakes. When it’s sunny, small and bigger rainbows create magical scenery. The stunning scenery is complemented by the ponds formed by running water in one of the cleanest (as designated) areas of Europe.
Livaditis in Xanthi
At about 7km away from the village Livaditis in Xanthi, the waterfall with the same name is located. It is 60m high and is said to be the highest in the Balkans. Its water is really cold although this does not hinder the bravest to take a dip.
Polilimnio Canyon in Kalamata
Polylimnio is located near the city of Kalamata, in the Peloponnese. Walking through a small path with dense vegetation and picturesque wooden bridges, visitors will find themselves in a hidden paradise with ponds and waterfalls, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Fifteen lakes, well hidden for many years, just recently became known to the public and started attracting nature lovers.
‘Kremasto Nero’ in Grevena
At the foot of the mountain Smolikas in Grevena, Western Macedonia, there is located one of the largest waterfalls in Greece, namely “Kremasto Nero” (hanging water). The waterfall throws its waters into a steep ravine, called Skontina. Approach to the top or the root of the waterfall is almost impossible.
‘Skepasmeno’ in Kozani
In Velventos, a small town located at the foot of Western Pieria, you can find the gorge “of the nine Pierian Muses” or “Skepasmeno” (meaning ‘covered’). It is a natural site of spectacular beauty, with its waterfalls, natural ponds, sycamore trees, frozen springs, abundant vegetation and impressive rocks. You can enjoy the views of the first 25m-high triple waterfall from the recently built wooden observation post.
Drymonas, Evia
The waterfall of Drymonas, in northern Evia, is 15 meters high nestled among tall fir and pine trees. The waterfall splits into smaller ones, creating a magical place whose soothing energy will captivate you.
“Lepida” in Drama
“Lepida” (Blade) waterfall is near Paranesti town in Drama, Northern Greece. The mountains and the forest village, the Nestos River and the wild fauna of the place make for a spot where adventure meets relaxation. Beeches and oaks are covering the little paths making for a fairytale picture.
Soudas Waterfalls in Tzoumerka
The waterfalls of Soudas are the hallmark of the village of Theodoriana in Tzoumerka, Ioannina, in Nortwestern Greece. Formed by the flowing waters of Ghoura, which run from 25 meters high and divided in two, they create a landscape of extraordinary beauty.
Dimosari Falls in Lefkada
The high mountains that abound on the island of Lefkada are the sources for many a waterfalls that cascades through the mountainous terrain, ending up into the sea. One such gorgeous cascading waterfall is the Dimosari waterfall that can be found on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Nydri. It ends up into a gorge which is replete with white rocks.
‘Vathres’ in Samothrace
The island of Samothrace is rich in creeks and rivers, with crystal clear waters that come from Saos Mountain and merge into the sea. Numerous waterfalls create the famous “vathres”, natural pools within the light-colored rocks. The vathres of Tsivdogiannis river, near Therma, where the hike up to mount ‘Feggari’ (moon) begins,are the most popular.
‘Neraida’ in Kythera
When travelling to the island of Kythera, don’t forget to visit the “Neraida” (Fairy) or “Fonissa” (Murderess) waterfall. The water plunges 65 feet into a cool, green pool. Reminiscent of a fairytale, the land is dotted with watermills, lakes and decorative bridges.
Man Katsa Waterfalls in Lesvos
30 km north of Mytilini, Lesvos, on the way to Mantamados, visitors come across “Lakos Mankatsa” or the Mankatsa Ditch waterfall. The waterfall is 12 meters high with a 1-1.5m deep pit. The huge dark rocks stand at a height of between 15-20m. An inspiring sight that leaves you in awe.
Nymfes in Corfu
In the village of Nymfes in Corfu, visitors can enjoy the waterfalls where, according to legend, Nymphs used to bathe. The waterfalls are best visited in the spring after the winter rains. The summer heat dries them up.
TAGS: ENVIRONMENT | TOURISM
