Through a long history that dates back to the Mythical times and reaches the present, the Prefecture of Serres is one of those that hide enchanting places, picturesque villages, vast fields and mountains, caves, waters and fairytale forests. Serres is an endless area of sights, archaeological sites, natural landscapes and unique cultural monuments.
Visitors can admire the beautiful Lake Kerkini, the lush green forest of Lailia, remarkable archaeological as well as Turkish monuments such as Bezesteni, as well as monasteries of outstanding architecture with deep history.
If you want to explore the beauties of Serres, do not miss to visit the following interesting sites:
Archaeological sites of Serres
Serres, as mentioned above, is a region with a rich history that counts for many years. Starting from the Archaic period, it passes through the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, wars and reaches today, making Serres a dominant Prefecture in northern Greece. The archaeological sites of Serres are quite remarkable, while some of them exceeded their local reputation and became widely known as the Amphipolis archaeological site. Amphipolis excavations revealed important archaeological finds such as two headless sphinxes guarding the entrance to the burial monument and two Caryatids of fine Thassian marble art, while the monument dates back to the Hellenistic era.
Other monuments of minor importance to visit in Serres are the imposing hill of Koula, a Byzantine castle built in an ancient fortress that defended the city in Z and VI BC. Century, Bezesteni one of the oldest Turkish monuments located in the centre of the city and probably built in 1385 as well as other Ottoman buildings such as the Ahmet Pasha Mosque, the Jinjirli Mosque and the Mustafa Pasha Mosque.
Laila forest
Apart from the archaeological sites and monuments, Serres also has a rich natural environment of significant biodiversity. At a distance of 25 km from the city of Serres, you will find yourself in a verdant forest where beech and pine trees dominate, also known as the Lailia forest. This beautiful forest host large mammals and birds such as brown bears, roe deer, wild boars, otters, predators as well as wild and lowland partridges. However, the forest flora is also rich, offering in science rare plant species.
In winter, this natural landscape is transformed, giving ski lovers an area of great natural beauty as the ski resort of Lailia is on the north side of the 1,600-meter high forest. It has two slopes and one of them is also suitable for night skiing. Of course, there are shops for renting equipment in the area, and just 3 km from the ski resort in a magnificent location dominates the Lailia Mountain Lodge, where you can relax while enjoying warming dishes such as bean soup and various sweets or drinks such as greek tsipouro and wine, having the background of the dreamy green landscape.
Lake Kerkini
Another area worth visiting is Lake Kerkini. A magnificent wetland, which is one of the most beautiful places in Greece and one of Europe’s three best birdwatching spots. Kerkini is actually an artificial lake created in 1932 after the construction of a dam in Strymon. The natural beauty of the lake will thrill you! Wild birds, horses, picturesque hamlets and fairytale lakeside forests make up this unique infinite destination.
Enjoy an unforgettable experience in this breathtaking location! Activities like 4×4, cycling, canoeing, horse riding, fishing or hiking will give you the opportunity to get to know the nature of Serres and connect with it. In addition, for hiking enthusiasts, there are countless easy or slightly more demanding routes starting from Ano Poroia and ending at the top of Mount Beles. Finally, the local products and the specialities that you will find in all the taverns in the area will sweeten your palate. Don’t forget to try buffalo steaks and sausages, wild boar and various dairy dishes.
Alistratis Cave
50 kilometres from the city of Serres, you will find one of the largest caves in Europe, Cave of Alistrati. One of the most amazing attractions that hosts thousands of micro-organisms but also with a unique route through stalactites and stalagmites.
Aggitis Cave
A little further south of Alistrati’s Cave about 100 meters away, you will find the “Orpheus Cave”, created 1,000,000 years ago and which according to tradition was the gate of Hades from where Pluto has crossed Persephone into his own world. The canyoning to the cave will give you the opportunity to see the caves and their interior as well as admire the Mountain streams from a distance.
Ano Poroia
Last stop of the trip is Ano Poroia, a picturesque village situated at an altitude of 385 meters overlooking Lake Kerkini. Horse riding is one of the things you should not miss but also a stroll between the centuries-old plane trees and streams will amaze you!
By renting your car from Alpha Drive Rent a Car you will have the opportunity to admire the beauty of Serres and experience an unforgettable experience that you will remember the rest of your life!