Lake Kastoria
Lake Kastoria, also known as Lake Orestiada, surrounds the city of Kastoria and is the seventh-largest natural lake in Greece. Considered one of Europe’s oldest lakes, it bears evidence of human presence dating back to the Neolithic period, most notably through the prehistoric lakeside settlement of Dispilio. Reed beds and small areas of wet meadows stretch along its shores, while a lakeside forest covers its northwestern edge. The lake hosts a remarkable diversity of waterbirds and fish, providing an important breeding habitat for many species, as well as a feeding ground for the two pelican species that nest in nearby Little Prespa. One of its most distinctive characteristics is the birds’ remarkable familiarity with human presence, shaped by the continuous activity along the lakeshore, allowing visitors to observe them from an unusually close distance. This unique coexistence between people and nature makes Lake Kastoria an ideal destination for rowing and water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing, offering visitors and locals alike the opportunity to enjoy the landscape while experiencing unique moments on the water.
