The ecological- sightseeing center of the Kerkini-Belles area, Oikoperigitis, is a private initiative which aims at raising environmental awareness through a number of outdoor activities. Some of the activities in the Lake Kerkini are: 4x4 jeep tour, canoe or boat tour, camping for children, archery, rappel, cycling around the lake...
The beautiful lake Kerkini and the surrounding areas, are some of the most popular birdwatching sites in Greece. The lake, along with rivers, canals, swamps, flooded fields/ cropland and highland natural habitats that surround it, is rich in bird fauna. A 1-week trip, especially during spring, gives birdwatchers the opportunity to observe more than 200 bird species.
Oikoperiigitis runs regular boat tours which give the visitor the opportunity to admire the incomparable beauty of Lake Kerkini, learn about the flora and fauna as well as the history of the area. The boats used for the boat tours (locally known as “plaves”) are the typical traditional boats of Lake Kerkini. They are much bigger than the fishing boats and they can hold up to 18 people.
We provide 4 Land Rover Defender 110, with 7 seats. They are possibly the only vehicles appropriate for the challenges of the area. In winter they can get you through rutty trails in order for you to discover the secrets of the woods. Our entry is always discrete and quiet to avoid breaking the stillness of the landscape.
In our tour center, there are 50 mountain bikes available. We also provide all the safety equipment needed for a bike tour. You can find helmets in various sizes for people of any age and especially for children. The trails around the lake are flat, so bikes are the ideal means for a pleasant tour around the area.
The ecological- sightseeing center of the Kerkini-Belles area, stamped with the “Oikoperiigitis” mark, is the first environmental education and awareness center. We started back in 1995 with few occasional individual visitors. In 1997 we welcomed the first group of schools with about a hundred students. Since then, we have had the pleasure to host thousands of children, wishing, that their love for nature will soon lead them back to our place.