Millennia ago, a colossal body of water once sprawled across the vast Mygdonian Basin in Greece. Lake Volvi and Koronia are now the only remnants of this ancient aqueous expanse. These lakes retain their grandeur despite time, boasting tens of thousands of acres of shimmering water. Of the two, Lake Volvi claims the title of the second-largest lake in Greece. Offering abundant recreational pursuits, this majestic body of water lies within easy reach of the bustling port city of Thessaloniki, ensuring visitors have all they need at their fingertips. Spanning an impressive 16,803 acres, Lake Volvi, also known as Limni Volvi or occasionally Limni Bolbe, reaches depths of up to 75 feet and stretches 12 miles in length and six to eight miles in width. Fed by a network of streams, its waters eventually flow into the Richios River, which meanders into the Strymonian Gulf. Interconnected with Lake Koronia via a channel, the two bodies of water are separated by a narrow strip of land. Once acclaimed for its outstanding fishing in the 1950s, Lake Koronia has since diminished in size and faced challenges from water eutrophication. In stark contrast, Lake Volvi continues to expand its reach. Lake Volvi is renowned for its superb perch fishing, providing ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts.
Situated close to and blessed with a Mediterranean climate that precludes freezing, the lake is a year-round factorization. Encircled by the Volvi, Vertiskos, Kerdyllion, Chortiatis, Cholomondas, and Stratonikos mountain ranges, Lake Volvi is nestled in a picturesque rural setting. Several charming villages, including Redina and Madytos, line its shores, offering self-catering holiday accommodations amidst serene natural beauty. Traversing the lake’s northern shoreline, the Thessalonika-Kavala national road leads travelers to the tranquil waters of Limni Volvi, situated 25 miles north of Thessalonika city within the Prefecture of Thessalonika. Thessaloniki was erected in 315 BC by Macedonian King Cassander as a tribute to his bride, Alexander the Great’s sister Thessalonica. The city’s storied past encompasses rule by the Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians before succumbing to Ottoman conquest. It was not until 1912, during the First Balkan War, that Greece regained control of this historic port. Today, Thessaloniki thrives as a vibrant city, blending modern attractions such as museums, nightclubs, and restaurants with relics of its illustrious past. Visitors can wander amid early Christian and Byzantine landmarks, feast on delectable seafood at local eateries, and savor breathtaking vistas of the port city atop the White Tower. This tower, built during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, represents the perseverance of the city. With all the conveniences of the city within easy reach, Lake Volvi offers a tranquil retreat near Thessaloniki. Combining the rich cultural heritage, historical treasures, and sun-kissed beaches of Thessaloniki with the idyllic simplicity of the pastoral villages surrounding Lake Volvi, this region caters to diverse tastes. Enhanced by the alluring Mediterranean climate, Lake Volvi beckons visitors year-round to relish in the wonders of this Greek haven.
