Greece isn’t just beaches—its mainland and larger islands have dozens of waterfall hikes, many with cold plunge pools that feel like a reset in summer heat.
This list focuses on Greek waterfalls travelers can realistically visit now, with notes on access, hike time, and seasonality (some falls are strongest in spring and can shrink—or dry—later in summer). It also flags spots where rules or conditions change often, so you’re not planning a “must-see” that’s temporarily inaccessible.
Quick comparison of the Greek waterfalls in this guide:
| Waterfall | Region | Typical Approach | Swimming | Seasonality Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loutra Pozar | Central Macedonia (Pella) | Easy (site access) | Yes (thermal pools) | Year-round thermal water; rules/prices can change |
| Nemouta | Peloponnese (Ilia) | Short walk from dirt road (varies) | Sometimes | Flow varies by rainfall |
| Edessa (Karanos) | Central Macedonia | Very easy (town park) | No (viewing area) | Reliable year-round; best after rain |
| Richtis | Crete (Lasithi) | ~3–4 hours through the gorge (route-dependent) | Sometimes | Usually has some water; the trail can be slippery |
| Panta Vrexei | Evrytania (Central Greece) | Up to ~2 hours (route-dependent) | Cold pools | Spray effect; access/road conditions vary |
| Nidri | Lefkada (Ionian) | ~20 minutes walk (often) | If water is present | Can run low or dry in peak summer |
Many of these waterfalls are seasonal, so timing and access matter as much as location.
Although Greece is best known for its islands and beaches, much of the country is mountainous. Beyond the coast, you’ll find forested peaks, deep valleys, rivers, and gorges—conditions that create some surprisingly impressive waterfalls across the mainland and on select islands.
If you enjoy varied landscapes, scenic hikes, or discovering places that feel far removed from the beach crowds, the Greek waterfalls below are well worth adding to your itinerary.
Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!
1. Loutra Pozar Waterfalls And Thermal Baths
The first waterfall on our list is located in Loutraki, Macedonia. Loutra Pozar is a fantastic destination where you can enjoy a series of waterfalls and one of the best-known hot springs in Greece.
The rock pools are for relaxing; the thermal water stays around 37°C year-round.
The small but picturesque waterfalls in the area add a beautiful touch to the already popular baths near Edessa, in the Pella region of Central Macedonia.
Loutra Pozar is also commonly referred to as Pozar Thermal Baths (Loutra Loutraki). The site’s pool access rules and pricing can change seasonally—check the official price list before you go.
2. Nemouta Waterfalls Near Ancient Olympia
The Natura 2000 network protects parts of the surrounding area; the Nemouta Waterfalls are in mountainous Ilia in the Peloponnese (around 600–700m elevation), on the Erymanthos River.
These incredible waterfalls are a fantastic destination for all the family, perfect for a picnic or a laid-back adventure; the area is also popular with experienced hikers and climbers.
It has easy access via a dirt road that ends at the bridge over the river; once there, a path along the riverbanks leads directly to the waterfalls.
3. Edessa Waterfalls And Karanos Falls
The Edessa Waterfalls are among the most impressive waterfalls you will find in Greece, not far from Loutra Pozar, always in Macedonia, and not more than two hours from Thessaloniki.
In fact, the Karanos Waterfall, at 70 meters, is the highest in Greece. That’s right, not just in the area… but the whole country!
But that is not the only place to visit; other gorgeous waterfalls in this region and a lush park surround the area.
Families with children will undoubtedly find the nearby Water Museum and Aquarium two entertaining spots not to miss when visiting Edessa.
4. Kalipso Waterfall Near Kokkino Nero
The imposing Kalipso Waterfall is slocatedin the Rarissa. This off-the-beaten-track corner of Greece features a dense forest canopy and a spectacular waterfall, with imposing rock formations and crystal-clear water.
The magnificent waterfalls are not far from the small village of Kokkino Nero. It is well known for its spectacular forest and is a great destination to visit during autumn and spring.
The area is often described as one of the best places in Greece for canyoning and adventurous hikes. It displays a magnificent landscape of imposing rock formations that reflect the colors of the river’s sparkling water.
Autumn and spring are better times to visit and enjoy Greece’s waterfalls in full splendor, as summer can be a bit dry and winter too cold to appreciate fully.
5. Neda Waterfalls Hike And Swim Spots
Located in the Peloponnese, the Neda Waterfalls are in the heart of a beautiful canyon surrounded by a unique natural landscape.
These Greek waterfalls attract hundreds of outdoor enthusiasts eager to hike along the paths along the river or swim in the Neda River near a natural waterfall. Just to be sure, be in good physical condition, as you’ll need your strength here.
Visitors often combine a visit to the falls with a quick swim in the emerald waters of the pool near the waterfalls after an invigorating hike to an impressive nearby Doric temple, the Temple of Epicurean Apollo.
Brands We Use And Trust
6. Fraktos Waterfall In Fraktos Virgin Forest
Part of the Wildlife Sanctuary of Rodopi and designated a “Preservable Monument of Nature,” Fraktos waterfall is located in a virgin forest that has been protected from human activity for the past 40 years.
Located in Drama, at an elevation of over 1,500 meters above sea level, the forest hides a magnificent waterfall with freezing waters. Here, you can spend a relaxing day hiking through ravines and valleys, and even cross Rodopi’s small streams and mountain rivers.
Access rules in the Fraktos Virgin Forest area can change (including whether you can enter without a guide or permits), so confirm current entry requirements locally before planning the hike.
7. Drimonas Waterfall On Evia
In the northern region of Evia Island (also spelled Eubea), at an elevation of about 620 meters, Drimonas Waterfall originates in the Sipias River and ends in a fantastic pool of emerald waters.
A visit to Drimonas can be a fantastic day trip on the island that you can combine with a visit to Saint David Monastery, about 4 kilometers from the waterfall.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxing bath or sit in the nearby cafeteria for an iced beer or a cold coffee, surrounded by the magical landscape.
8. Richtis Waterfalls Hike In East Crete
Located in the easternmost region of Lasithi on the island of Crete, Richtis Waterfalls are a relatively unknown natural hike that takes about four hours to complete. The path begins near the main road connecting the cities of Agios Nikolaos and Sitia, about halfway between the two towns.
The only way to reach the 15-meter-high waterfall is to follow the path that starts at the beautiful old stone bridge of Lachanas, follows the riverbank, and finally ends at the tiny but enchanting Richtis pebbled beach.
Although it is long (three to four hours from the start of the path to the waterfall), it is quite an easy walk, with slippery sections along a river with lush vegetation.
As with many of these walks, wearing anti-slip hiking boots with a good grip and, if possible, waterproofing is the best option for a comfortable hike.
Reported heights for Livaditis vary by source (often cited around 40–50+ meters), so treat any single-number height claim as approximate.
9. Panta Vrexei “Always Raining” Waterfalls
Panta Vrexei translates to “always raining,” and the name refers to the constant spray and water curtains that create a rain-like effect in the gorge. Panta Vrexei is located in Evritania, in Central Greece, between the villages of Roska and Doliana.
To reach the waterfalls, the most common route is to leave Karpenisi and drive about 30 kilometers. The drive is not easy, as the road can get quite rugged and bumpy at times, so joining an organized tour is safer than driving there alone.
Once in the area, the hike begins at River Krikelopotamos, near an old, picturesque bridge. Get ready for a hike that can last up to two hours along a path through a lush green forest with mossy, slippery rocks. Pack the right shoes to avoid dangerous falls.
Along the way, it is easy to spot some gorgeous, smaller waterfalls and a few cool natural pools along the river. It can be a bit on the freezing side, but it will undoubtedly be an excellent place for a refreshing swim after the hike in hotter months.
If you prefer, you can go kayaking or rafting, as organized activities make it easy to enjoy your day at Panta Vrexei.
10. Orlias Waterfalls On Mount Olympus
The Orlias Waterfalls in Mount Olympus offer a fantastic hiking and swimming spot for those who enjoy combining adventure and tranquility.
When exploring renowned waterfalls, Orlias stands out for its accessibility and close ties to Greece’s mythological roots, as it is situated in the mountains of the gods.
Starting in Dion village, various hiking trails offer clear routes for hikers of all abilities. The waterfalls offer a refreshing respite for hikers, providing not only a beautiful sight but also pools to cool off in during the warmer months.
11. Gria Vathra Waterfalls And Pools On Samothraki
Samothraki’s Gria Vathra is recognized for its series of smaller waterfalls and pools, which have steadily carved their niches into the rocky landscape, creating serene spots for visitors to enjoy.
Positioned amid a lush landscape, this location is particularly accessible from the village of Therma, renowned for its healing hot springs.
The Gria Vathra trail is straightforward and flanked by verdant greenery, leading explorers through several mini waterfalls and pools. This site balances a peaceful retreat with a visually stimulating experience, reflecting an aspect of Greece’s waterfall-rich environment that encourages exploration and relaxation.
12. Nidri Waterfall On Lefkada
Well-known for its exotic landscapes and pristine beaches, Lefkada is an island in the Ionian Sea, a popular European summer destination. But Lefkada is a relatively big island with many hidden treasures that most tourists overlook; Nidri Waterfall is only one of them.
About 12 meters high, the waterfall is a great place for a swim, but the water remains cold. In peak summer (often July to October), the flow can be very low or dry in some years.
The walk from the parking area typically takes around 20 minutes, but signage and trail conditions can change, so it’s worth checking locally before you go.
13. Livaditis Waterfall Near Xanthi
An impressive waterfall in the Rodopi Mountains near Xanthi in northern Greece, Livaditis Waterfall is accessible from the village of Livaditis.
Although the trek to the area can be challenging for those not used to hiking on rugged terrain, the views of the nearby forest are breathtaking.
To reach the waterfalls, follow the signboards and the red marks painted on rocks and tall trees, which help visitors avoid getting lost.
14. Polylimnio Waterfalls And Pools In Messinia
These lesser-known Greek waterfalls are located in Messinia, the Peloponnese, and Polylimnio Gorge.
Polylimnio roughly translates as “multiple lakes” in Greek, a phrase that pretty much describes the surrounding landscape of pools, ponds, and small lakes that you will find in Polylimnio.
These waterfalls span a wide area where visitors can enjoy activities, such asbathing in the blakes’ lue waters or relaxing amidst the green cliffs.
Carrying fresh (or better… freezing!) water from the surrounding mountains, the waterfalls create a series of small turquoise ponds with smaller waterfalls in each one of them. All of these smaller waterfalls then dflowtogether ointoa flarger, stunning blake
The walk to the main falls from the Polylimnio/Charavgi starting area is typically 25–60 minutes (longer if you explore multiple pools) and can be slippery; hiking shoes with good grip are recommended. However, the rewarding landscapes at the end of the path are worth the fatigue!
15. Fonias Waterfall On Samothraki
The beautiful Samothrace Island (or Samothraki) is located in the Northern Aegean Sea and remains relatively unknown, largely off the beaten path.
It’s a destination of stunning natural beauty, with fantastic beaches. And it is also home to one of Greece’s most striking and lesser-known waterfalls, Fonias.
The first and largest waterfall you will encounter in the area is about 20 meters high and has crystal-clear water. Other smaller but no less beautiful waterfalls dot the site and become visible as you go along the hiking path.
The area is exceptionally well-preserved due to its secluded location, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
There are several ponds and rock pools with icy waters for a refreshing dip after the hike. Since it is really isolated, it is a good idea to pack all the supplies you will need for the day, as there is no organization
16. Agia Varvara Waterfalls Near Olympiada
Located in the Halkidiki region, in the area known as Kipouristra, the River Mavrolaka forms the Agia Varvara waterfalls, only eight kilometers from the village of Olympiada.
Trekkers will find two impressive waterfalls in the area: a small one that can be spotted from the top of the creek and a bigger, more imposing one a few minutes further down the road.
17. Palaiokarya Bridge And Artificial Waterfalls
Palaiokarya Bridge marks the entrance to two small artificial waterfalls in Trikala, Thessaly. The bridge dates to the 16th century, while the waterfalls were created later with small dams.
Indeed, one of the most famous sights in Trikala is these 12-meter-high waterfalls, which offer a fantastic view behind the bridge arch.
The perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon, the place attracts photographers from across Greece eager to hone their long-exposure photography skills. Families can enjoy a picnic here, but facilities (including any fixed barbecue setups) can change, so plan as if there are none.
Since the place is not organized, it will be necessary to pack accordingly to spend the day, including snacks, fruit, and plenty of drinks.
A visit to this magnificent corner of Greece can be easily combined with a stop at the villages of Trikala and Elati and a trip to the Meteora monasteries. It is also a super easy day trip if you visit from Thessaloniki or other towns in the country’s north.
18. Lepida Waterfalls In Arcadia
Located in Arcadia, Lepida Waterfalls are in a mountainous area, off the beaten track, surrounded by hundreds of flowers, bushes, and plants. The best time of year to visit Lepida is autumn, as during summer, the waterfalls are not consistently full.
To reach the waterfall, it is best to start walking from either Platanos or Agios Ioannis, two villages three to four hours from Lepida.
Those less keen on walking can drive along a challenging dirt road and then walk toward the falls. Once you have parked your car in the designated parking lot, the hike will take at least 40 minutes and up to one hour.
19. Souda Twin Waterfalls Near Theodoriana
Souda Waterfalls make for a fantastic day trip if you are spending your holidays in the Tzoumerka Mountains, one of the best places to visit in Greece during winter.
The twin waterfalls are in the National Park of Tzoumerka, Peristeri & Arachthos Gorge in Epirus and are surrounded by rugged terrain and dense fir forest.
To reach the waterfalls, it is possible to embark on a one-hour hike from the village of Theodoriana, about one thousand meters above your destination.
This path offers truly unique panoramas dotted with dozens of smaller but no less enchanting waterfalls along the way. Alternatively, you can drive along a dirt road to get closer to the waterfalls and then hike for about 20 minutes.
20. Skra Waterfall And Lagoon Pools In Kilkis
Exploring the Skra Waterfall in Kilkis allows visitors to connect with the region’s natural and historical facets, offering insight into the diverse experiences of waterfalls in Greece. Starting your trip in Skra village, you’ll find this location combines the visual appeal of cascading water with historical significance, thanks to its proximity to a WWI memorial park.
Skra Waterfall is recognized for its clear, lagoon-like pools and easy access, ensuring that visitors, whether interested in history, nature, or both, find something that piques their interest. It’s a site that effectively marries an accessible natural spectacle with a sad yet important historical context.
GREEK WATERFALLS FAQs
What inland attractions does Greece offer besides its well-known beaches?
Greece offers a wide range of natural landscapes—waterfalls, gorges, rivers, forests, and mountain villages. Standout waterfall areas include Edessa (Central Macedonia), Evrytania (Panta Vrexei), the Peloponnese (Neda and Polylimnio), East Crete (Richtis Gorge), and Samothraki (Fonias and Gria Vathra).
When is the best time to visit waterfalls in Greece?
Many Greek waterfalls have their strongest flow in late winter through spring, and some become a trickle or dry in peak summer—especially on smaller islands. Autumn can be a good shoulder season in wetter years, but flow varies by rainfall.
Do any Greek waterfalls dry up in summer?
Yes. Some waterfalls can run low or dry during hot, rainless periods. Nidri Waterfall on Lefkada is a well-known example of a waterfall whose summer flow can be very low or absent in some years.
Are Greek waterfall hikes suitable for families?
Some are family-friendly with short approaches (such as Drimonas on Evia or parts of Orlias on Olympus). In contrast, others involve slippery rocks, river crossings, or longer gorge walks (such as Richtis or Panta Vrexei). Suitability depends on recent conditions and the exact route you choose.
Can you swim at waterfalls in Greece?
Often yes, but water is usually cold year-round, and depth/current can change after rain. Many popular spots have plunge pools (Neda, Richtis, Orlias, Samothraki’s pools), but safe entry depends on the day’s conditions.
Are there any waterfalls with historical or cultural significance?
Yes. Skra Waterfall in Kilkis is near a WWI memorial area, and Palaiokarya’s stone bridge is a historic landmark with later-created artificial falls nearby. If you mention other “sacred” or ancient-history links (such as Seven Springs), include the specific location and a verifiable source.
Is Loutra Pozar the same as Pozar Thermal Baths?
Yes. Loutra Pozar is also known as the Pozar Thermal Baths (Loutra Loutraki). The thermal water is typically around 37°C, and pricing/access rules can change seasonally.
Do I need special permits or a guide for Fraktos Virgin Forest and its waterfall?
Access rules can change depending on conservation policy and local enforcement. Confirm the current entry requirements locally before planning the hike.
How long is the Richtis Gorge hike to the waterfall?
Many hikers report taking roughly 3–4 hours to cover the gorge route (times vary with pace and whether you return the same way). The trail can be slippery in places because it follows a river corridor.
As you can see, there are many beautiful waterfalls in Greece; you only need to tell us which Greek waterfall you’ll visit first.
MORE BALKANS WATERFALLS TRAVEL BLOGS
