Lake Pamvotis – Island of Ioannina

This well known lake was in ancient times known as “Pamvotis” (the great provider). Situated right next to the city of Ioannina, this uncommonly beautiful lake is a true gem of the Ioannina Basin region. With a fascinating history full of legends and traditions that go back centuries, the lake of Kyra Frosyni has become famous beyond the borders of Greece.
The lake is supplied by the springs of Mount Mitsikeli, of Drabatova, Sendeniko and Krya. Its waters are usually calm, though it freezes on occasions. It exerts a mysterious charm over the locals, who spend sunny summer days on its shores, revel in the morning mist around its banks or walk next to it on melancholic winter’s evenings.
There are thick reed beds around the lakeside as well as dense thickets of willows, poplar trees and huge plane trees which offer shelter from the wind to a host of local and migrational birds. Herons, grebe, snipe, swans and cormorants all “earn their daily bread” by snacking on the local fish population.
In the middle of lake Pamvotis, you’ll find the Island of Ioannina. It is a small miracle of nature, unbelievably beautiful, and of great historical significance. It is situated towards the north western part of the lake, a hair’s breadth away from the village settlement of Amfithea.
Its west side has a gentle coastline, while the remainder of its coastline is rocky, with impressive stony outcrops which plunge into the water. It is covered in woodland – the climate created by the lake favours the growth of lush vegetation. It truly is an earthly paradise. It and the island of Agios Achilleios in Prespa are the only lake islands in Greece which are inhabited.
There is only one village on the island which is a real gem, with picturesque paved alleys and folk art shops. The village has been designated an example of a traditional settlement, due to its exceptional historical importance and its architectural beauty. It used to be an important monastic center and today you can still visit five monasteries of great historical significance.