Verlinga Lake: A miracle of Pindos

An impressive geological phenomenon evokes awe and admiration in the heart of the Lakmos mountain range, where Epirus meets Thessaly.

Verlinga, one of the legendary dragon lakes of Pindos, is a unique natural monument that combines scientific importance with mythological tradition.

At an altitude of 2,050 metres, between the imposing peaks of Tsoukarela (2,295 m) and Mega Trapos (2,240 m) stretches an alpine plateau that hosts one of Greece's most special hydrogeological systems.

Verlinga, with an area of ​​approximately 10 acres, is characterised by a complex system of ten serpentine streams, the first sources of the historical Acheloos River.

The natural phenomenon 

The most impressive feature of Verlinga is the way its waters "disappear" through a natural funnel. This phenomenon gave the lake its name "Bringa," which in Vlach means circle - and fueled numerous local legends.

In spring, as the ice melts, the flow of water creates a mesmerising spectacle of meandering formations before disappearing into the bowels of the earth.

When we visited in mid-autumn, the water was scarce, but it flowed, and we could see the meanderings and the point where the water disappeared.

Myths and traditions

Local tradition has woven a rich mythological veil around Verlinga.

According to legend, an invisible dragon in the form of a snake resided in its waters. The legend says that this creature sprang from the rock, left its mark on the earth in the form of serpentine streams, and finally disappeared in the place where the funnel is today.

The area is also known as Farmakolakka, a name from cattle breeders associated with mysterious animal losses.

Ecological importance

Verlinga is part of a wider ecosystem that transforms dramatically with the changing seasons.

In spring, melting snow creates a rich waterscape, while in summer and autumn, the area transforms into an alpine meadow with unique flora. This seasonal change contributes to the maintenance of a rich biodiversity.

Geological heritage

From a scientific point of view, Verlinga, like the other dragon lakes of Pindos, is a legacy of the last glacial period.

The study of the region's hydrogeological system continues to provide valuable information for understanding climate change and geological processes.

Accessibility and protection

Access to Verlinga is possible from the village of Haliki Aspropotamou, although the route requires special equipment and preparation.

The protection of this unique ecosystem is a priority, as it combines environmental, scientific, and cultural values. A road can be reached near Verlinga, but it requires a four-wheel-drive car and a driver with experience on such routes.

In any case, the car must remain several hundred metres from the water.

Verlinga is not just a geological phenomenon—it is a living witness to the timeless relationship between the natural environment and human civilisation in mountainous Greece, a place where science meets myth and natural beauty coexists with mystery.

Dimitri Stathopoulos is a columnist for Travel. Translated by Paul Antonopoulos.

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