6 of the most charming waterfalls in Greece

Greece is well established as the land of thousands of islands, superb beaches, and never-ending sunshine. But did you know there are countless stunning waterfalls in Greece, too, waiting to be discovered? The mountainous Greek mainland is riddled by hundreds of gorges with bubbling streams running through its bottom creating a myriad of pools, cascades, and waterfalls.

Some of them are tall and powerful like the impressive waterfalls of Edesa, some peaceful and calming like Nemouta or Polilimnio. And there are some that only come to life during the spring turning the otherwise dry riverbeds into a surprising maze of rapids and pools. But all of them provide a welcomed refreshment to the body and mind, especially during the long hot Greek summer.

There are many beautiful waterfalls in Greece and it is impossible to name them all in a single post. The below list is just a small selection of my favorite waterfalls in Greece that we stumbled upon during our wanderings through this beautiful Mediterranean country.

Neda Waterfalls (Messinia)

The waterfalls of Neda river lie in a lush green valley near Kyparissia in western Peloponnese. The 31 kilometers river creates a natural border between the regions of Messinia and Ilia and is a paradise for any nature lover.

There is a wide network of hiking and cycling trails crisscrossing the valley of Neda, connecting its charming villages with waterfalls, stone bridges, windmills, and stunning viewpoints. For more information about the hiking trails check out the Apollo Trails website HERE.

But the most popular sight in the area are the alluring waterfalls of Neda. They are relatively easy to reach through a narrow trail starting at an old stone bridge near the village of Platania. It only takes around 15 minutes to reach the first waterfall with a pool of unbelievably emerald water inviting for a swim.

But don’t just stop here. There is another, even more picturesque waterfall further up as well as a charming little chapel of Panagia clinging to the cliffs. Neda is a popular destination for river trekking trips, too. This s a great option for the adventure folk who want to explore all the hidden treasures of this green paradise.

Polylimnio Waterfalls (Messinia)

Messinia has many charms, from stunning sandy beaches and cute seaside towns to impressive coastal fortresses and ancient sites. But it is also home to one of the prettiest waterfalls in Greece – Polylimnio. Polilimnio lies near a village called Kazarma in the countryside filled with olive orchards and fields.

As the name suggests, Polylimnio consists of several lakes connected by a stream full of cascades and waterfalls. Polilymnio’s main lake and waterfall called Kadi, lying just a short (but quite challenging) hike from the car park, is a popular swimming hole and can get pretty busy during the hot summer days.

To escape the crowds at Kadi lake continue your climb up through a steep, slippery slope on the right side of the waterfall. It’ll take you to another, a much quieter lake where you can relax on your own. Further up, the trail continues through jungle-like vegetation to the last (or first) lake of the row called Black lake. From here, a dirt road will bring you back to the car park in about 10 minutes.

If you want to enjoy Polylimnio in all its fairy-tale beauty visit outside of the main season. Be careful after the rain though when the current grows stronger and land slights become a dangerous possibility.

Nemouta Waterfalls (Ilia)

When visiting the famous archaeological site of Ancient Olympia make sure to plan a detour to Nemouta. The waterfalls of Nemouta are a magical place yet remain widely overlooked by travelers making their round of the Peloponnese peninsula.

The waterfalls lie in the valley of Erymanthos river between the villages of Nemouta and Neochori. The roads leading to the waterfalls are bad and signposting is almost non-existent so make sure to check the map beforehand and use GPS. All the trouble is well worth it, though.

There are multiple waterfalls near the bridge at Elea, a tiny settlement with a tavern right at the bottom of the valley. Park your car here and stroll up and down the lush, fern-covered banks of the river to spot some of the waterfalls.

The most impressive of them fall through a large sinkhole with its staggering walls covered in moss and creepers. But the rest of the waterfalls are as charming, even if smaller, as is the Erymanthos river itself.

Mavri Spilia (Evritania)

The mountainous Evritania region is filled with natural wonders from staggering peaks to deep gorges, rushing rivers, and waterfalls. The waterfalls of Mavri Spilia won our hearts thanks to their mossy, Middle-earth-like surroundings and remote feel despite having relatively easy access.

The waterfalls lie along the path to Mavri Spili, a cave used as a local hideaway at the times of Turkis and German occupation. It only takes around 20 minutes to reach the waterfalls from the road and another ten to climb all the way up to the cave over a couple of wooden bridges.

Another option is to walk all the way from Proussos, a nearby village with a monastery and striking views. The hike to Mavri Spilia, starting right at the monastery of Proussos, shouldn’t take more than 2 hours each way.

What’s more, if you have the right equipment and skill you can embark on an exciting Via Ferrata trip through the otherwise inaccessible upper pars of the gorge. Organized Via Ferrata / canyoning trips are another option if you want to enjoy all the fun under the watchful eye of an experienced instructor (check out THIS site for info).

Drymona Waterfalls (Evia)

Drymona waterfalls are one of the most beautiful places in Evia and shouldn’t be missed when visiting the northern parts of Greece’s second-largest island. They are located in a countryside of rolling hills and sweet-scented forests between the villages of Kerasia and Drymona.

The best time to come to Drymona waterfalls is spring when the current of Sipia river is strong and the meadows of Northern Evia filled with poppies and other colorful wildflowers. Rainy days are a surprisingly awesome time to visit Drymona, too, turning this secluded valley into a misty, enchanted realm.

There are paved walkways descending down to the stream making access to the waterfalls super easy. From the main waterfall, a path follows the current for a few hundred meters before returning back to the road making for a short yet pleasant hike.

If you are looking to spend a full day at Drymona you can connect your visit to the waterfalls with an ascent of Xiron mountain nearby. This way, you’ll get to experience the fairy waterfalls as well as wide views across the mountainous landscape of Northern Evia (check out THIS awesome post about the trek).

Enipeas Gorge (Mount Olympus)

Enipeas Gorge is the most popular gateway for ascents to the summits and mountain huts of Mount Olympus. But it is a stunning place on its own as well and well worth your visit.

Enipeas Gorge starts at the upper parts of Litochoro village and ends in Prionia at an altitude of 1.100 meters. The sparkling Enipeas river creates numerous pools, cascades, and waterfalls on its way through the canyon toward the Thermaic Gulf.

To get a taste of the beautiful Enipeas without too much hassle you can descent to the river from Litochori, Prionia or Dionysis Monastery halfway through the gorge. Either way, it is a short and relatively easy walk.

But if you’re up for an adventure (and sufficiently fit) I highly recommend embarking on the 6-hours long hike through the entire canyon. It is a grueling climb with constant ups and downs but also the best way to experience the stunning beauty of the Enipeas gorge!