TOUR OVERVIEW

Dragon Lake Hike! A fascinating hike to the alpine lake of the iconic Epirus Mountain Range!

Enveloped in myth and local tales  about strange creatures, alpine lakes are scattered on some mountain ranges in Greece. One of these blue gems decorates the alpine meadows of the Epirus Range, just below the peak of Mt. Tymphi (2.497 m). The stunning alpine lake called by locals dragon lake (drakolimni in Greek), is believed to be a remnant of the Ice Age. According to Greek mythology however, it was home to two dragons who were caught in an endless fight against each other. Legend says that the rocks they threw against each other are the ones scattered around the lake to this day.

This harsh environment of limited nutrients, wide variations in sunlight during the summer and the winter months and acute fluctuations in temperature have turned the Dragon lake of Mt Tymphi into a truly unique ecosystem. Their waters are home to the Alpine Newt, a striking amphibian that has been around for thousands of years. It is approximately 10-12 cm long with an impressive orange-red color in the lower part of its body. And truly resembles a small dragon!

Enjoy a great Dragon Lake Hike setting off from the village of  Mikro Papingo. We will hike on mountainous trails and take in the breathtaking views of the mountains until we reach the alpine lake. This is a truly perfect setting for all mountain lovers!  

TOUR SUMMARY

Duration: 2 days
Period of Operation: May to October
Price per person:
Self Guided Option:

• 125€ for 6-7 participants
• 140€ for 4-5 participants
• 180€ for 2-3 participants

Fully Guided Option:

• 160€ for 6-7 participants
• 190€ for 4-5 participants
• 270€ for 2-3 participants

Participation requirements:
A good level of fitness is required

TOUR DETAILS

Tour inclusions

Guided Mode:

• Trekking Hellas English speaking guide
• Accommodation in berths on shelter (1 night)
• Meals: 1 Breakfast at the mountain refuge, 1 picnic lunch / 1 dinner in the mountain refuge
• Vat

Self-Guided Mode:

• Accommodation in berths on shelter (1 night)
• Meals: 1 Breakfast at the mountain refuge, 1 picnic lunch / 1 dinner in the mountain refuge
• Briefing from a local guide, map, footnotes and emergency support telephone
• Vat

ITINERARY

1st Day:
MIKRO PAPINGO – ASTRAKA REFUGE – DRAGON LAKE – ASTRAKA REFUGE

Our hike starts from the village of Mikro Papigo at 950 meters, in the most popular pathway up to the mountain. This path is also a part of the long-distance pathway so called 03. The first part is a steep 3,5 hrs uphill climb to the cole at 1950 meters where Astraka’s refuge is. There are 4 water springs on the way up so there is no need to carry water all the way from the beginning.
We rest in the refuge, leave our backpacks for the night and set off for Drakolimni, hiking for about 1,5 hrs from the hut at 2100 meters.
Drakolimni is amongst some of the highest peaks of the mountain offering great views to its north face. It is really worth to climb to the small peak above the lake, to enjoy the best views of this majestic land.
Gamila 1 peak (2497 meters) and Smolikas peak (2637 meters) can be seen amongst tenths of other Pindos’ peaks.
We return hiking for about 1 hour back to the refuge to enjoy our dinner and rest.
Total Hiking Duration: 6 hours
Overnight in Astraka Refuge.

2nd Day:
ASTRAKA REFUGE – MIKRO PAPINGO

Early in the morning after our breakfast, we return from the same way back to Mikro Papingo.

Total Hiking Duration: 2.30 – 3 hours

FAQ

WHAT’S THE MEETING POINT AND TIME?
Meeting Point: At the parking at the entrance of the village  Mikro Papingo – google maps here
Meeting Time: 09.00 am

WHEN IS THIS TOUR AVAILABLE?
May to October

WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME?

• Please try to travel as light as possible; remember that you must carry everything you bring on all the days’ walk.
• Large, comfortable rucksack (40 – 50 liters) with padded straps and waist belt, internal frame preferred; waterproof liner recommended keeping clothing, etc. dry inside.
• Sturdy, worn in trekking shoes.
• Good waterproof top with hood.
• Warm clothes, both for windy / cold daytime conditions and for the cool evenings (fleece tops or similar).
• Shorts and long trousers for walking, preferably quick-drying material (cotton or poly-cotton not denim).
• Sweatshirts or T-shirts for walking, at least one with long sleeves and collar (against sunburn).
• Sheet sleeping bag or similar (e.g. duvet cover), for the overnights in the shelter, although blankets will be available.
• Sunglasses, towel, sun hat or cap, sun block.
• Your own personal water bottle. As part of our environmental policy and actions, we are committed to eliminating the use of plastic water bottles.
• Wash bag and simple first aid kit (plasters or blister kit, aspirin or similar, antiseptic).
• Photographers: bring your cameras.
• Walking sticks.

Location