Kolympithres of Papigko, natural bathtub-like formations in Greece
Description
The Kolympithres of Papigko are a series of cascading limestone pools carved by the Rogovos stream at about 980 meters elevation. The clear mountain water flows through layered rock formations, creating multiple interconnected basins of varying depths.
History
The area gained prominence in the 15th century when Papigko became an important settlement under Ottoman rule and received special privileges from the Sultan. These protections allowed the region to develop as a stable mountain community that later became known for its natural attractions.
Culture
Local villagers have named these water basins according to traditional terms passed down through generations in the mountain communities. The pools serve as gathering places where people have come for centuries to cool off and socialize during warm seasons.
Practical
The pools are accessible year-round via marked hiking trails, with summer offering the best conditions for swimming in the cold mountain water. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear as the rocks can be slippery and some paths have steep sections.
Did you know?
The water in these pools maintains a notably cold temperature year-round because it is fed directly by mountain springs. This constant chill offers intense refreshment but can make extended swimming challenging for those not accustomed to cold water.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Zagori Municipality).
Greece holds natural water basins formed by geological processes over thousands of years. These include cold mountain springs, thermal springs heated by underground volcanic activity, waterfalls that have carved pools into rock, and coastal lagoons where seawater fills hollows in stone. Some are...
Discover a selection of the most attractive natural pools and waterfalls in Greece, spread across islands and mainland regions. These sites are known for their basins shaped by rocks or set within dense vegetation, often featuring clear water from streams or torrents. This list includes characterful...
Zagori
12.1 km
Vikos–Aoös National Park
532 m
Monastery of Panagia Molyvdoskepastos
15.7 km
Kokkoris bridge
13.1 km
Konitsa bridge
7.2 km
Monastery of Saint Paraskevi
10 km
Kalogeriko Bridge
13.5 km
Moni Kimiseos Theotokou Avel
15.4 km
Gamila
7.4 km
Panagia Spiliotissa
4.5 km
Tower of Hamko
8.7 km
Lazaridi-Kontodimou bridge
13.2 km
Moni Agion Anargyron Kleidonias
4.4 km
Bridge of Mylos
13.8 km
Bridge of and Neromyloi, Gretsi
20.6 km
Konitsa mosque
7.5 km
Panagia Stomiou Monastery
7.2 km
Kleidonia bridge
5.4 km
Girls' school, Vissani
16.7 km
Hamko complex
8.7 km
Moni Timiou Prodromou Ronkovou
12.1 km
Bust of Michael Anagnos, Papingo
869 m
Skamneli acropolis
12.4 km
Church of the Taxiarches
11.2 km
Katholikon of Moni Agias Paraskevis Monodendriou
10 km
Church of Agios Nikolaos Vissanis
16.7 km
Agia Paraskevi church, Skamneli
12.4 km
Boys' school, Vissani
16.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes