Hidden Waters: The Inhabited Greek Islands Secretly Located in Lakes

When we speak of Greek islands, the mind instantly drifts to the deep blue Aegean or Ionian seas, whitewashed houses perched over saltwater waves, and coastal sandy beaches. However, Greece hides a fascinating geographical secret: some of its most enchanting, traditional, and isolated islands aren't surrounded by the sea at all. They are located smack in the middle of freshwater lakes.

Deep within mainland Greece's mountainous regions lie tranquil lake islands. Car-free, steeped in dramatic history, and surrounded by lush wetlands, these unique destinations offer a completely different side of Greek culture. If you want to experience an authentic island getaway away from the ocean, these two freshwater sanctuaries belong on your travel wishlist.

1. The Island of Ioannina: The Nameless Jewel

Located near the northern shore of Lake Pamvotida in the Epirus region, this tiny spot of land is one of the most famous lake islands in Europe. Fascinatingly, it is likely the only inhabited island in the world without an official name—locals and travelers simply refer to it as "Nisos" (The Island) or "The Island of Ioannina".

• The Vibe: Spanning less than a square kilometer, the island is entirely car-free. It is home to a single, tightly-knit village of about 250 residents, many of whom are traditional fishermen or silversmiths. The village is a living architectural museum, filled with beautiful stone-and-slate Epirotic houses along narrow cobblestone alleys.
• The History: Despite its tiny size, it packs a massive historical punch. It is home to seven beautiful Byzantine monasteries, making it the third-largest monastic state in Greece after Mount Athos and Meteora. It is also famously where the Ottoman ruler Ali Pasha met his dramatic end in 1822 at the Monastery of Saint Panteleimon, which now operates as a historical museum.
• The Taste: A trip here means dining at the lakeside tavernas to sample rare local delicacies you won't find on sea islands, including local lake carp, eel, and frog legs, paired with traditional local pastries like klostari. It is easily reached via a scenic 10-minute boat ride from the city of Ioannina.

2. Agios Achilleios: The Borderland Sanctuary

Hidden away in northwestern Greece on the borders of Albania and North Macedonia lies Lake Mikri Prespa (Small Prespa Lake). Floating in its calm, reed-fringed waters is Agios Achilleios, the only other permanently inhabited lake island in the country.

• The Vibe: With a permanent population of barely two dozen people, Agios Achilleios is a sanctuary for nature lovers and seekers of absolute peace. The island was completely isolated until a floating pedestrian footbridge was built, allowing visitors to walk right onto the island from the mainland shore.
• The Nature & History: The Prespa region is a world-renowned, protected wetland habitat hosting rare species of Dalmatian pelicans, herons, and pygmy cormorants. Walking across the green island, you will share the dirt paths with grazing local dwarf cows and find yourself standing amidst monumental history.
• The Highlight: The island is named after the Basilica of Agios Achilleios, a magnificent, roofless 10th-century Byzantine church built by Tsar Samuil of Bulgaria. Standing inside the ancient, towering stone arches with the blue lake waters peeking through the gaps is an ethereal experience that completely redefines what a "Greek island" can be.