Bordering Aitoloakarnania and Evrytania, Kremasta Lake is the largest reservoir lake in Greece. Construction of this reservoir was completed in 1965 and its waters come from four rivers: Acheloos, Agrafiotis, Tavropos and Trikeriotis.

The round of the lake is a magical route of 76 km. We started our exploration from the Bridge of Tatarna, which has been awarded three international prizes for the technique of its construction. We continued reaching near Granitsa village, where we saw from afar the “Bridge of Manolis”, which was connecting the banks for 400 years. When the dam of Lake Kremasta was built, the bridge sank in the water of the lake. As result sometimes it appears and sometimes it sinks in the water. For this reason, the locals call it “The Drowned Bridge of Manolis”.

We crossed the bridge of Episkopi and a little later we reached the dam.

The 160 m high Kremasta dam is considered to be the highest earthen dam in Europe.

The 160 m high Kremasta dam is considered to be the highest earthen dam in Europe.

In 1960, when the construction of the dam was completed, dozens of villages, bridges and historical churches were submerged in water. At the same time, the accumulation of a large volume of water resulted in the change of the climate of the area, culminating in the devastating earthquake of 1966. Thus, more than 15 settlements in the area were abandoned. People left their home. 

The largest hydroelectric power station in Greece operates here. It covers about 1/3 of the country’s electricity demand. 

The lake is a wetland included in the Natura 2000 Program. The water of the lake forms fjords and small islands. The blue shade of the water opens the mind and calms the soul.

Learn more about Greece in What to do in Greece, for Every Traveler and Galaxidi, Greece’s Hidden Gem.

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