A long weekend at Lake Plastiras (Greece): Activities, Food & Local Finds! {Summer time}
- Sonia Gerodimou
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
They call Lake Plastiras “Little Switzerland,” and after spending a few days there during my summer vacation, I can tell you why. Surrounded by fir-covered mountains, the artificial lake feels like a hidden alpine gem in the heart of Greece.
I stayed at Kazarma Hotel, which turned out to be the perfect base — comfortable, cozy, with extra facilities to relax, and right in the middle of everything I wanted to explore.
Things to Do at Lake Plastiras
Lake Plastiras is a haven for outdoor activities all year round!
Water sports: Canoeing, kayaking, and hydro-biking let you enjoy the calm waters, while swimming is possible in summer at Plaz Lamperou and Plaz Pezoulas.
On land: Hiking and mountain biking trails crisscross the forests, while horseback riding and archery offer fun alternatives for all ages. For the adventurous, canyoning near the Monastery of Saint George is a must, and in winter, skiing at the Karamanoli Ski Center is a great option.
My highlight: I tried archery with Tavropos Activities. It was easy to learn, fun, and the perfect way to add a little adventure to the trip. The session cost about 10€ for 20 shots, which lasted roughly 15 minutes. It felt a bit short, but it was definitely enjoyable and worth trying at least once.Where to Eat at Lake Plastiras
The food scene at Lake Plastiras is hearty and traditional, with taverns serving dishes made mostly from local ingredients. Expect grilled meats, lake trout, wild mushrooms, and homemade stews.
✨ My food stops:
Koutouki Tavern (Neochori) — I tried their delicious paidakia (lamb chops). The service was polite, and the location is lovely, right by the village church.
Korkotaras (Filakti village) — A cozy taverna where the food is authentic and full of flavor. The view here is stunning, overlooking the Agrafa forest.
With my friends at Korkotaras with Agrafa Mountain in the background
✨ Other must-try places:
Fagopoti (Kalivia Pezoulas) — Known for smoked trout salad and wild boar with chestnuts.
Chrisopeleia (Neochori) — Traditional dishes with great lake views.
Manitari (Neochori) — Perfect for mushroom lovers, especially in autumn.
Zarnavalos (Kalivia Pezoulas) — Famous for clay-pot beef and handmade sausages.
Agrafa Mountain Refuge — A great stop for simple but delicious dishes, or even just a coffee with a view.
Tsardaki Tavern, located in Tsardaki village, is a popular spot for people from Karditsa.
In Kalivia, don’t miss the local bakery, where you can try traditional pies — the perfect snack for the road — along with a strong Greek coffee.
In most of these places, there’s no need for reservations, but I’d recommend going early, around 8 pm, while there’s still light so you can fully enjoy the view.
Coffee with a View
No Greek getaway is complete without coffee stops. My favorites were:
Plaz Pezoula — Right by the water, peaceful and relaxing. Amazing view.
Pezoula Beach Café — from inside to outside Skiouros Café (Neraida village) — Charming with nice views, though a bit overpriced. Offers many brunch options.
Plaz Lamperou — A lakeside spot that perfectly captures the area’s calm vibe. Next summer (2026), a new coffee spot is being renovated and looks very promising.
Plaz Lamperou - an ideal spot for events
Local Products and Shopping at Lake Plastiras
Shopping at Lake Plastiras is about finding genuine local flavors.
✨ What I bought:
Fruits and vegetables from roadside stalls near Kazarma Hotel. The watermelon was especially good.
Sausages and fresh cuts of local meat from Dimitris Dimos, the butcher in Neohori village.
Small shop, big flavors: Dimitris Dimos the butcher, Neochori Local wine from Messenicola Winery (Monsieur Nicolas), located in Mesenikolas village.
Messenicola Winery (Monsieur Nicolas) is a hidden gem. You can book an appointment for a wine tasting. Extra tip: the winery offers an exquisite wine dedicated to Maria Callas, available for purchase.
Other local specialties include honey, homemade jams, herbs, traditional pies (batzina, plastos), and mushrooms. Beside that, keep in mind that you won’t find souvenirs like magnets or postcards.
Don’t miss collecting forest fruits! They are everywhere — just look closely and they’re there to grab... for free!
Final Thoughts: Why Visit Lake Plastiras?
Lake Plastiras has it all: breathtaking landscapes, plenty of activities, authentic food, and warm local hospitality. Whether you come for adventure, relaxation, or simply to enjoy the mountain air, this “Little Switzerland of Greece” won’t disappoint. The villages are close together, yet the area remains calm and quiet, with roads free of traffic and easy parking. The region still feels genuinely Greek, as the tourist industry hasn’t turned this hidden gem into a major destination—although it certainly has the potential.
Travel Tip: Plan for at least 2–3 days. Mix a little adventure with long tavern meals, and don’t forget to leave space in your bags for all the local goodies you’ll want to take home.Sonia Gerodimou
