Nestos River

Nestos River

A setting overflowed with life, ideal for those looking for adventure. Rich in flora and fauna, it has been recognized as one of the five most important wetlands in Europe. The Nestos Narrows stretching for 22km are of exquisite beauty and ecological interest. Nature lovers can enjoy hiking on the European path E6 while marveling at glorious scenery and finding rare wild flowers or go down the river by canoe or kayak.
The Delta of the Nestos River: One of the most fascinating areas of Chryssoupolis, and of the whole prefecture, it the delta of the Nestos river. It is an area that not only is idyllic with vibrant colors throughout the year, but also of great ecological importance.  It is a Utopian wilderness where one can admire the magnificence of nature.
 
 
The delta of the Nestos River is southeast of Chryssoupolis. It is outside the village of Nea Karya, but in order to reach it one has first to go to the forestry commission, close to the Nestos river, and then one can proceed after having been informed by the chief forester which road to follow.
The route may be a little difficult but it is, at the same time, unbelievably captivating, winding among trees of various kinds, flowers, bushes and many other kind of greenery grows. As far as the point where the river meets the sea, the scene is unique. The banks are completely green and the pattern of the streams is amazing. The islet formed from the sand brought down by the river is of a strange beauty and a place where seagulls find shelter. As far as the banks are concerned, they are a place where the wild animals of the area go to quench their thirst. Early in the morning one can find their tracks close to the water. The delta of the Nestos River is a beloved place of the fishermen of the area and some of them keep their boats there.
The delta is also of great importance from an ecological aspect, because it is a place where many rare migratory birds rest and where one can find some of the rarest plants in the world. Together with the narrows of the river, the delta makes a heaven on earth.
The Narrows of the Nestos River: At the border between the prefectures of Kavala and Xanthi, outside the village of Toxotes, are the narrows of the Nestos River. A paradise hidden in the mountains.
At the beginning of the climb is a huge plane tree and cool water runs out of the heart of the mountain. Immediately after this is a narrow stone pathway carved along the giant rock, which hangs massively over the river. The view offered by the river as it runs along is truly amazing.
The alternately visible sand in the shallows and those hidden in the depths of the river, look like rare formations that can only have been created by some mysterious being. Shoals of trout swim stubbornly against the stream and the wanderer feels that there is no more absolute union between man and nature at this particular moment that he experiences.
The ascent becomes increasingly beautiful, while the train tracks stretch like a snake and the tunnels carved into the mountain appear to almost furtively conceal it. On the opposite side of the river, small sandy beaches can be seen as well as ideal areas for walking and resting. During the route, small descending pathways lead to the river. The trees here are now so dense that it is almost impossible to see the blue of the sky. The journey up can last a whole day but for those who would like to get another view of the route, there are organized walks and excursions by train, which start from the town of Drama.
This dreamy place, only about fifty kilometers from Kavala, is one of the areas that the visitor should not miss. Farther into the forest, you may see the wild Liverian horses. The Great aquatic Forest or Kotza Orman that boasts luxuriant vegetation, abundant creepers, rare bird and animal species is a real paradise. The six Lagoons spreading out from Nea Karvali as far as the Nestos, is a complex of lakes and marshes providing shelter for migratory birds. The dreamlike Nestos Delta stretches for 27km. At the mouth of the river there is a recreation area where hikers can rest. It is the habitat of herons, cormorants and flamingos. Chrisoupolis, which is near the river, is a finance and cultural center of the Nestos eparchy. Visit the villages that are set within the green mountains of Lekani and breathe in the fresh air. The picturesque seaside resort of Keramoti is an ideal holiday destination. You can enjoy swimming at Ammoglossa and eating fresh fish at the tavernas alongside the waterfront.