Lake Tsivlou

In 1913 a massive landslide came down the slopes above the Krathis valley, dammed the river and drowned the settlement of Sylivainiotika, creating this lake at roughly 800 metres in the mountains south of the Corinthian Gulf. Today it is a still green sheet about half a kilometre long, surrounded by fir and plane trees, with a footpath around the shore and picnic areas under the trees. The road up from Akrata is spectacular and slow, climbing through the Krathis gorge past villages clinging to the slope. The lake is a favourite for Greek weekend outings, and the walk around it takes forty minutes; the water is cold and swimming is generally discouraged, but the reflections of the firs in the morning make the drive worthwhile.

What you actually see

• The lake basin - green water held by the 1913 landslide.
• The shore path - a walking circuit under fir and plane trees.
• The Krathis gorge road - the winding climb from the coast.
• The mountain villages - Zarouchla and others above the lake.

When to go

Late spring for full water and green slopes; October and November for colour. Winter access can be blocked by snow. Summer weekends bring picnicking crowds.

Honest expectations

The lake is small, and the visit is essentially a walk and a picnic. Water levels vary and the margins can be muddy. Facilities amount to a taverna and picnic tables. The mountain road demands patience and a car with decent brakes.

Nearby

The Cave of the Lakes and Kalavryta lie west; the coast at Akrata is half an hour below.