Plizio Visual Lab

Lake Plastira

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Lake
—°1
Lake Plastira (Greece)

Weather…

Lake Plastira, officially known as the Tavropos reservoir, is a significant artificial lake located in the Thessaly region of Greece at an altitude of 750 meters. The project was first envisioned in the 1920s by General Nikolaos Plastiras to provide irrigation for the Thessalian plain and generate hydroelectric power. The dam was eventually completed in 1959, flooding the Nevropolis plateau to create a water body covering approximately 24 square kilometers. Over the decades, it has evolved into a premier destination for eco-tourism, characterized by dense fir and chestnut forests surrounding its shores. The lake plays a vital role in the local economy, supplying drinking water to the city of Karditsa and supporting regional agriculture. Its alpine scenery and clean waters attract outdoor enthusiasts for activities such as hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. The area is a recognized sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including rare bird species and a variety of freshwater fish.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C45812182427272115105
Rain mm716260414330262559757989

📋 Practical info

🧭
Getting there
Access to this artificial lake in Thessaly is typically via well-maintained paved roads starting from the nearby city of Karditsa. The winding lakeside routes offer a highly scenic drive for visitors arriving by car or bus.
📅
Best season
The optimal time to visit spans from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor activities. During winter, at this 750-meter altitude, temperatures drop significantly and snow is possible.
⛰️
Terrain & paths
The terrain surrounding the water is largely flat to gently rolling, featuring easily navigable paths along the shoreline. In the adjacent forested areas, visitors can also find some steeper, unpaved hiking trails to explore.
🎒
What to bring
For a typical excursion, comfortable walking shoes, sufficient drinking water, and appropriate sun protection are highly recommended. Those planning longer treks off the main paths should also pack a light rain jacket just in case.
🅿️
Parking
Parking spaces are usually readily available in the small villages dotting the lake perimeter and at designated viewpoints. During popular weekends in the peak season, arriving early in the day is advisable to secure a convenient spot.
⚠️
Safety
The area is considered very safe, though drivers should exercise caution on the winding mountain roads and respect speed limits. When swimming or boating, it is wise to inform yourself about local currents and general water safety guidelines.
⏱️
Time needed
Most visitors spend half a day to a full day here to soak in the scenery and visit a few of the prominent viewpoints. For extended hiking excursions or boating trips, you can easily plan to stay for an entire, relaxing weekend.

Geography

Coordinates
39.30000, 21.75000

Facts

  • Named after General Nikolaos Plastiras (1883–1953).
  • The construction of the dam was completed in 1959.
  • Located at an average elevation of 750 meters.
  • Maximum water storage capacity is 400 million cubic meters.
  • The lake's surface area covers approximately 24 square kilometers.
  • Primary source of drinking water for the city of Karditsa.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Lake Plastira (1)

Lake Plastiras📍 landmark

An artificial lake in central Greece, surrounded by dense forests and mountains.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Lake Plastira located?
In the Thessaly region, near Karditsa.
Is it a natural lake?
No, it is an artificial reservoir created in 1959.
What activities are offered?
Kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking around the lake.
How long is the shore road?
About 60 km, well-suited for a scenic drive.
Can you swim in the lake?
Yes, at designated spots like Pezoula beach.
Lake Plastira: where is it located?
Lake Plastira is located in Greece.
Lake Plastira: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
Lake Plastira: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Plastira, officially known as the Tavropos reservoir, is a significant artificial lake located in the Thessaly region of Greece at an altitude of 750 meters.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →
Europe
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Europe
More places in Greece →

Nearby cities

More places