Lake Ziros is located between Preveza and Arta in the lovely region of Epirus, Greece. Formerly a cave, this small elliptical lake has a fascinating history and is fed by enchanting underground springs. Until recently, Lake Ziros was a well-kept secret, absent from tourist maps, but it has now started gaining recognition while maintaining its charming allure and tranquility.

Lake Ziros – A Natural Wonder with a Legendary Past

Lake Ziros, also known as Ziros by locals, is an exquisite wetland located at an elevation of 56 meters above sea level. It spans a maximum length of 900 meters and a width of 600 meters, with its depths plunging to an impressive 70 meters. The name “Ziros” has Slavic origins, reflecting the presence of Slavic settlers in the area during the Middle Ages. However, the history of this area dates back even further, with Prehistoric populations residing around the lake when it was a cave that eventually collapsed.

The lake’s unique rock formations and its surroundings owe their existence to a local legend involving two sisters – one kind-hearted and the other wicked – along with the intervention of an angel. Lake Ziros is not only steeped in folklore but also a part of the Natura 2000 network, renowned for its natural beauty and ecological significance.

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How to Reach Lake Ziros

Accessing Lake Ziros is convenient by car from Filippiada, located just 3 kilometers away in the province of Preveza. Traveling west on the old Arta-Ioannina national road from Filippiada, you will encounter the lake across from the village of Pantanassa.

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The Fascinating Origin of Lake Ziros

The creation of Lake Ziros is a geological marvel. Unlike typical lakes fed by surrounding mountains or rivers, this lake’s depths are nourished by underground springs, rising from a depth of 12 meters to the north of the lake. One theory suggests that the lake was originally a primordial cave whose roof collapsed around 10,000 years ago.

According to local legend, the area was once home to a city named Ziropolis, where two sisters resided – one prosperous but envious and the other virtuous yet impoverished. An angel’s intervention led the poor sister and her children to embark on a journey without looking back, triggering an earthquake that petrified their forms on the lake’s rocks. This legend further enhances the allure and mystique surrounding Lake Ziros.

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Revelling in Adventure at Lake Ziros

Lake Ziros presents an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility. Apart from immersing yourself in canoeing, kayaking, and hiking, the forest trails also offer opportunities for cycling and exploring the unspoiled natural surroundings. On the eastern bank, a charming café-restaurant awaits, catering to your culinary desires, whether you crave a cup of coffee or a full menu meal.

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Wild Camping at Lake Ziros

Wild camping, an adventurous way to immerse oneself in nature, has long been a cherished dream for outdoor enthusiasts. While Greece generally prohibits wild camping to protect its fragile ecosystems, there are instances where careful and discreet camping can be done without inviting any trouble. Lake Ziros, situated in the heart of Epirus, offers a rare opportunity to experience wild camping in Greece, provided one follows responsible practices and seeks hidden spots away from public view.

While camping is not officially allowed around the lake, there are hidden spots where visitors can discreetly pitch their tents without attracting any attention. One such ideal location is the Agios Alexandros chapel, situated at a slightly higher elevation than the lake.

Camping near Lake Ziros‘ Agios Alexandros chapel offers several advantages for those seeking a wild camping experience. Firstly, being situated at a higher altitude helps campers avoid the excessive humidity that often prevails around the lake’s shores, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable stay. Furthermore, moving away from the lake’s immediate vicinity reduces encounters with nighttime creatures such as frogs, mosquitoes, and snakes that tend to become more active during the night along the lakeshore.

• Camping Spot Coordinates: 39.240324, 20.854425

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