Why Visit During This Season?

Surrounded by meadows and farms, with Mount Belles gracing the skyline in the background, Lake Kerkini is at its finest in the spring. The landscape is painted in green and yellow hues, dotted with wildflowers, as the lake’s surface blooms with water lilies. Little surprise that award-winning arthouse auteur Theo Angelopoulos chose this idyllic setting for scenes in his 2004 film “The Weeping Meadow.”

April and May are also great months for birdwatching, as over 300 species can be spotted here. Dalmatian pelicans, cormorants, cranes, spotted eagles, spoonbills, wild ducks and the rare lesser white-fronted goose make appearances on the lake’s water, along its shores and in the forest growing near its banks.

How to Enjoy Nature

The lake offers a plethora of other outdoor activities, the most popular being tours in traditional wooden boats or canoes. Several companies in the area, especially in the village of Kerkini, provide this service. You can also explore the area on horseback or by bicycle – either rented or your own.

Up for More Miles?

The village of Ano Poroia is a good place to stay as it is located 13 kilometers from Kerkini and boasts spectacular views of the lake. The dense forest of plane and beech trees begins just above the village, crisscrossed by trails for hiking. About 24 kilometers away lies Neo Petritsi, near the Lontza Valley. The Sultanitsa stream creates small waterfalls and natural pools in a fairytale setting, perfect for a peaceful stroll before enjoying a meal in one of the local tavernas.

History buffs should not miss Fort Roupel, which was part of the “Metaxas Line” constructed between 1936 and 1940 to defend Greece’s northern borders. In April 1941, the fort became the site of a fierce battle between Greek and German forces. The 4-kilometer underground tunnel network played a crucial role in the resistance. Today, the fort is maintained by the military, and admission is free. Visitors can explore the tunnels and shelters, and view exhibits of weapons, artillery, uniforms and flags in the on-site museum. If you find yourself craving some urban bustle, the city of Serres is 61 kilometers from Kerkini. Its lively center features pedestrian-friendly streets lined with shops, cafes and eateries.

What Dishes Should I Try and Where?

For a taste of the region’s culinary specialties, start with Evora Restaurant in Makrinitsa (Tel. (+30) 23270.233.95), where you can savor soutzoukakia and sausages made from the area’s famed buffalo meat, along with hearty stewed buffalo. Over in Chrysochorafo, the owners of Mirovali Tavern (Tel. (+30) 23250.513.40) take to the lake daily in their family’s traditional fishing boat to catch fresh carp – known locally as grivadi – a fatty, flavorful fish typically served fried. In the village of Ano Porroia, Pestrofes Tavern (Tel. (+30) 23270.515.00) serves trout raised at a nearby farm, prepared grilled, breaded, or as a delicate smoked fillet. Throughout the region, you’ll also encounter Tzoumagia sausage – named after the old name for nearby Irakleia – a thin, light sausage made from high-quality pork. Sample it along with other local grilled meats at Sakis Grill in Kalokastro (Tel. (+30) 23220.632.84).

Select Guesthouses

If you want to be very close to the lake and engage in nature-related activities, Oikoperiigitis Guesthouse (Kerkini, Tel. (+30) 23270.414.50) is ideal, as the owners offer not only accommodation but also boat rides, birdwatching excursions, hikes, and even mountain climbing on Mount Belles. The guesthouse also has a restaurant. If your goal is peace and relaxation with a view of the lake, choose Epavlis Hotel (Kato Poroia, Tel. (+30) 23270.281.80). Viglatoras Mansion (Ano Poroia, Tel. (+30) 23270.512.31) is housed in a 1922 building that once operated as an inn, featuring rooms with a traditional atmosphere, and its breakfast includes homemade pies and local products.

Don’t Forget to Take Home …

There are a few local delicacies that you really should stock up on before heading back home. Tzoumagias sausages from Panagiotakis (62 Polytechneiou, Irakleia, Tel. (+30) 23250.225.88). Buffalo meat soutzoukakia from Boras Butcher Shop (Livadia, Tel. (+30) 23270.311.09). Pasta made with buffalo milk from Ano Poroia Pasta (Ano Poroia, Tel. (+30) 23270.515.53). For traditional products – everything from jams and spoon sweets to frumenty and hilopites (egg noodles) – visit Niviasta cafe in Ano Poroia (Tel. (+30) 6973.901.746), where the Agrotourism Women’s Cooperative operates.

A Tip

The plains of Serres truly come alive in spring, transforming into a vibrant canvas filled with colors, scents and scenic landscapes. The roads are mostly easy and straight, and the short distances between destinations make it easy to explore a lot in a short amount of time. Be sure to stop by the village of Lithotopos to see the Kerkini Dam, and take a drive to Agistro, near the Greek-Bulgarian border, to experience a traditional hammam bath. Don’t be afraid of racking up some kilometers – this region is made for excursions.