Flega Dragon Lakes
On the alpine slopes of Mavrovouni, between Grevena and Ioannina, you will encounter a unique natural attraction: the impressive Flega Dragon Lakes — two twin lakes at an altitude of approximately 1,950 metres, in the heart of Valia Kalda. Also known as “Laklu Mare” (“big lake”) and “Laklu Niikou” (“small lake”) in the Vlach dialect, they are connected by a small natural stream that flows into Arkoudorema. The surrounding landscape is austere, dramatic and strictly alpine, with glacial formations and bare rocks, seasonally adorned with centauries, tulips and lilies, as well as orchids, narcissi and violets. Brown bears, wolves, chamois and roe deer inhabit the surrounding environment, along with many species of high-altitude birds that oversee the area from high above. The famous alpine newts —small, rare amphibians resembling tiny dragons— also live here and grace the Dragon Lakes with their name. The myths of Pindus enhance the otherworldly charm of the area, the most notable of which is the legend of the dragon Lygkos, who wept so much over the loss of his friend Pindos that his tears formed the lakes.
How to get there: Access to the Dragon Lakes is possible only via hiking routes, the most popular of which starts from the village of Milia. Hiking approximately 13 kilometres, you will pass through black pine forests and subalpine meadows before reaching the lakes and the summit of Flega, with its unrivalled view and unique vibes.
