Kozani - Polyphyto Lake
Starting from the Metropolitan Church of Agios Nikolaos in Kozani, built in 1664 and distinguished by its iconic bell tower, we reach the Early Christian Basilica of Agia Paraskevi in just fifteen minutes. This basilica dates back to the 6th century. We continue to the Monastery of the Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) of Ilarion, which we will reach after a 25-minute drive, hidden within a majestic natural landscape of forested mountains, hills covered with kermes oaks and cedars, and located along the banks of the Aliakmonas River.
Along the way, we pass through Aiani, home to the historic Byzantine Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary—an outstanding example of Byzantine architecture and frescoes from the 11th–12th century. Just ten minutes further lies the Monastery of Panagia Zidaniou from the 17th century, an important religious and historical monument of the region. Very close by are the so-called “Buchtaria-Nochtaria” in Mikrovaltos, fascinating geological formations perfect for photography and enjoying the fresh mountain air.
A little over an hour’s drive brings us to the historic Monastery of Agios Antonios of Siapka, dating to the 11th century, just before reaching Kastania. Another hour away lies the newer monastery of the region, the Monastery of Agios Nektarios of Palaiogratsano, located at the foot of Mount Pieria. At an elevation of 900 meters, and after a 15-minute drive, we reach the Monastery of the Holy Trinity of Velventos, situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the Pieria Mountains. The monastery is just 15–20 minutes from the village of Velventos, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, numerous options for relaxation and dining, and two notable churches: Agios Nikolaos (16th century) and Agios Minas (13th–14th century).
Nearby, around ten minutes away, are the Skepasmeno Waterfalls, in a dreamlike setting where lush vegetation embraces the flowing waters. From Velventos, we are only 15 minutes away from one of the region’s most important Byzantine monuments—the Basilica of the Catechumens or "Forty Doors," dating to the 10th–11th century, located in the western corner of the lower town of Servia.
Just ten minutes further is the Servia-Neraida Bridge, known as the “High Bridge of Servia,” the second longest bridge in Greece after the Rio-Antirrio Bridge. At 1,372 meters long, it offers an incredible view of Lake Polyphytos and provides a truly memorable crossing experience.
Finally, we return to Kozani in about 20 minutes.
