By Nicolas Bard

The mountainous landscape of Eastern Argithea in Karditsa was to change once and for all in 1963, when a large landslide from the “element” slope of the Sminar Mountains plunged and “blocked” the Stephaniotis River, one of the most rushing tributaries. The basin created slowly filled with water, resulting in the surface of the lake reaching 175 acres. The setting in the area changed dramatically and in the imposing mountains “born” a small lake with crystal clear waters.

The few remaining inhabitants of the neighboring village of Stephaniada, from where the lake was named, remember this unprecedented geological event and describe it in his camera “Where there is Greece” They thought that the whole village would “sink” and there were many who left neighboring places to be saved. After the landslide, there were many the houses of the village that were completely destroyed, while some old buildings are still on the bottom of the lake. After this unexpected intervention of nature, and after the earth under their feet stabilized, the few residents who remained there, in order not to desert their place, made their lives from scratch.

Lake Stefaniada is in altitude 750 meters and the its coastline reaches 1.8 kilometers. It is the newest natural lake of our country and stands out for its great natural beauty, turquoise waters and its steep coasts, while the southern banks flows the Stephanie Stream on its southern banks. In a period of heavy rainfall, in fact, the water level is rising. The surrounding areas are covered by mixed deciduous forests, and if you are in the area, it is worth climbing the road leading to the largest pilgrimage in the area, the Monastery of Spilias, to admire the lake, and the slope that created it, in a very characteristic landscape.

Perimeter of the lake you will walk in the shade of large plane trees, willows, fags, oaks and chestnutswhile if you are lucky you may also achieve any of the predatory birds in the area, making their nests there. Among them we find golden eagle, snakes, hawks, petters, rare goldsmiths and many other species. Naturally, the lake emergence influenced the microclimate of the area and contributed to the rich bullshit and reptilewhile in the wider area there are wolves, bears, roe deer and otter found in the water.

In the lake has been done in the past and enriching with different kinds fish – mostly carp – and there are a few who come on its banks, to fishery.

Whatever season you choose to visit the area, however Nature will reward you generously. Walk on the picturesque trails in the woods, kayak in the lakes, turquoise waters of the lake, visit the one -arched Petriliotis river bridge and try the local cuisine, which stands out for its meats and pies. The warm hospitality of the locals, the absolute quiet that “covers” the whole area and the imposing views of the surrounding mountain volumes will take you to another Greece, more pure, more authentic. The only sure thing is that by leaving there you will be filled with batteries and gain unique memories.