Pindus Mountains: Dragon Lake Full-Day Guided Hike
ID: GYG36902-45694
Category:
Country: Denmark
Duration:
09:00 hours
Description
Hike the beautiful surroundings of Dragon Lake, also known as Drakolimni in the Pindus Mountains of northern Greece, on an 8-hour guided tour. Enjoy the alpine scenery and see forest birds and birds of prey circling the rocky summits of Mount Tymfi.
Experience the alpine terrain and stunning vistas of Mount Tymfi in the Pindus Mountains and see untamed nature on a full-day hike to Dragon Lake
According to legend, the lake was named for the dragon that is said to inhabit its waters. The dragon is said to be in constant conflict with another, from Mount Smolikas, the 2nd highest mountain in Greece after Mount Olympus. The 2 beasts fought each other by throwing pines and rocks, creating the peculiar landscape you will hike through.
As you walk, discover a rich fauna, including alpine triton, a very rare amphibian that measures between 8-12 centimeters in length, has a black-brown shaded outer spine, and is protected by law.
Hiking from Mikro Papingo, you will follow an uphill path to the Astraka refuge, where you can rest over hot coffee or lunch. Then, continue to the grassy uplands, studded with wildflowers. At some points you might encounter pack snow, even up until July. After approximately 1.5 hours, you will reach the lake.
Nestled at an altitude of 6,725 feet (2,050 meters) on Mount Tymfi, it’s surrounded by the towering mountain peaks of Lapatos and Ploskos. Take in this magical scenery - and keep an eye out for the dragon - before retracing your steps back to Mikro Papingo.
Highlights
- Hike to Dragon Lake in the Pindus Mountains
- Enjoy a curious alpine scenery of towering mountain peaks and packed snow
- Look out for protected alpine triton reptiles, and birds of prey
- Learn about the legendary dragon that gave Drakolimni its name!
- Stop for lunch or hot coffee at the mountain hut of the Astraka refuge
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
• Please note that the hiking distance is about 11 miles (18.5 kilometers), starting from the village of Mikro Papingo
Mikro Papingo village
INCLUDED
- Professional trekker leader
NOT INCLUDED
- Insurance (please make your own arrangements)
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.