Hiking To Legendary Drakolimni

About The Place

Mount Tymphe, a part of the Pindus mountain range in northwestern Greece, is a stunning alpine destination. Its towering peaks, including Gamila, offer both challenge and reward for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The mountain’s slopes are adorned with diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Hiking trails of various levels of difficulty crisscross the area, providing breathtaking views.

Drakolimni, or “Dragon Lake,” is a series of enchanting alpine lakes nestled within Mount Tymphe’s rugged terrain. These pristine high-altitude lakes add to the region’s allure, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking alpine beauty and adventure.

Total Duration

• 9 hours

Full description

The legendary hiking adventure to Drakolimni, also known as Dragonlake, commences from the charming village of Mikro Papigo, nestled in a pristine forest setting. This hike represents a classic alpine-style trek as it leads us through the ascent to the high alpine meadows of Mount Timfi, taking us to the very zenith of the Zagori region.

The well-defined trail guides us along a forested slope and leads us to the first of many breathtaking highlights, the picturesque Avragonio spring. It is graced with a magnificent plane tree, and after we cross it, our ascent towards the expansive meadow, where thousands of sheep once roamed, begins.

Upon reaching Astraka Mountain Refuge, perched at an altitude of 1950 meters, we savor a well-deserved lunch before embarking on the remaining stretch of our journey toward the mythical Drakolimni. The northern side of the lake treats us to awe-inspiring vistas of Smolikas and Vasilitsa, along with the distant sight of Mt. Grammos on the Albanian border and the sweeping Aoos valley. Meanwhile, the eastern flank affords us splendid views of the northwest Gamilla peak.

The return journey retraces our steps back to Astraka Refuge and, ultimately, Mikro Papigo. It may be a lengthy trek, but the gratification is immense, with the legendary Drakolimni forever etched in our memories.

Trail Particulars:

• Distance Covered: 18 kilometers
• Elevation Gain: +1200 meters

Grade 3

What to Bring

• Comfortable hiking shoes & trousers

• Hat

• Bottle of water

• Sunscreen

• Extra T–shirt

Includes

• Certified  & Experienced Mountain Guide

• Liability insurance

• Pic nic snack (seasonal fruits, energy bars)

• Pair of hiking poles per person

• 1 backpack for 4 persons

Limitations

• Basic physical condition and mental health needed
• Minimum Age 12+ years

Itinerary

• Starting Time 09:00
• Ending Time 17:00

Meeting point

Cancellation Policy - Flexible

• Whenever you cancel 4 days or earlier than the confirmed activity starting date, your fee will be refunded for the entire activity charge.
• In case of cancellation within 48 and 96 hours before the scheduled activity starting date, you'll get 50% reimbursed.
• Those who cancel 48 hours or beyond are considered last-minute cancellations. There will be no refunds