Plizio Visual Lab

Lake Volvi

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Lake Volvi is situated in the Thessaloniki region of northern Greece and stands as the second largest natural lake in the country. Spanning an area of approximately 70 square kilometers, it forms a vital ecological complex alongside the neighboring Lake Koroneia. The entire basin is protected under the Ramsar Convention, serving as a crucial stopover and breeding ground for over 200 species of migratory birds. Geologically, the lake occupies a tectonic graben that separates the Chalkidiki peninsula from the Greek mainland. It is connected to the Strymonian Gulf via the Rihios River, which is notable for being one of the shortest rivers in Greece. The lake's waters support a rich variety of aquatic life, including more than 20 fish species, some of which are endemic to this specific drainage system. Surrounded by fertile plains and the Kerdylia mountains, the area has been inhabited since antiquity, with archaeological sites nearby confirming its long-standing strategic and economic importance.

Location: Greece
Nearby: Volvi (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

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

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	6	7	10	13	19	24	27	27	22	17	12	8
Rain mm	52	40	48	39	43	35	26	19	44	49	47	68

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

This lake in Central Macedonia is extremely conveniently located and can be reached quickly east of Thessaloniki via the Egnatia Odos highway. The exits lead directly onto well-developed local roads that comfortably circle the body of water.

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Best season

Spring and early summer are considered the optimal travel times, when nature blossoms and temperatures are well-suited for outdoor exploration. Midsummer can become very hot here, while the winter months are often characterized by cool, wet weather.

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Terrain & paths

The coastal landscape is predominantly flat and characterized by agricultural fields, small fishing villages, and extensive reed beds. Hiking trails run mostly level and do not require any special mountaineering skills or high physical fitness.

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What to bring

For a relaxing stay, comfortable running shoes, adequate sun protection, and light clothing in the warmer months are completely sufficient. Nature lovers should definitely pack binoculars to observe the rich birdlife in the surrounding wetlands.

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Parking

In the welcoming small villages around the lakeshore, there are usually sufficient and often free parking spaces available for use. The car can also usually be parked easily and safely at designated rest areas and clearly marked observation points.

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Safety

The area is generally very safe for visitors, with only the usual precautions near bodies of water naturally applying. Those traveling by boat or walking off the beaten path should always pay attention to the surrounding nature and weather changes.

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Time needed

For a typical excursion with a relaxing walk along the shore and a stop in a local cafe, a half day is perfectly sufficient. Many people, however, combine the visit to this water with other nature explorations in the surrounding area for a full-day trip.

Geography

Coordinates

40.68000, 23.46000

Facts

Lake Volvi reaches a maximum depth of approximately 23 meters.
It is a core component of the Koroneia-Volvi-Tempi National Park.
The lake hosts two endemic fish species found nowhere else in the world.
The water level sits at an elevation of 37 meters above sea level.
Over 200 different species of birds have been documented in the surrounding wetlands.
The Rihios River serves as the primary outflow, connecting the lake to the Aegean Sea.