The lake of Kastoria is the most precious treasure of the town. It
is a jewel that both the visitors and the inhabitants can enjoy, as a place of
recreation and as a stimulus for romanticism and reminiscence.
At the lakeshore there are enough squares and parks. In these specially
formulated spaces, the visitor has the possibility to walk on the stone pavements
and to admire the unique natural beauty of the lake at all seasons. Lake Orestida
of Kastoria is considered morphologically the most beautiful lake of Greece
and has been announced a "Monument of Natural Beauty " by the Ministry
of Culture.
The natural basin of the lake, which is enclosed by mountains of excellent
geomorphology, constitutes a unique hydrobiotope. It is a hydrotope of great importance
for the aquatic but also for the birds of prey and uses as an area of reproduction,
nourishment and hibernation. It maintains a rich bird fauna, which includes rare
and menaced species. More specifically: Pygmy Cormorant, White Pelican, Dalmatian
Pelican, Great White Erget, Glossy Ibis, Goosander, Marsh Harrier, Whiskered Tern,
etc.
In the lake there are great quantities of various fish species, and
offers the possibility for fishing, both with the traditional boats in the deep
waters and with fishing rod in he lakeshores. In the lake's waters there are fishes
such as, Carps, butterfly fishes, Italian bleak, northern pike, etc. Fishing is
allowed almost throughout the year, except the period of the fish reproduction.
You can find fishing equipment in the special shops in the town of Kastoria
and Argos Orestikon.
This text (extract) is cited June 2003 from the Prefecture
of Kastoria tourist pamphlet.
