Top 6 Lakes around Nicosia

The Nicosia district is primarily known for its artificial lakes and reservoirs. These bodies of water serve as essential water supply sources but also provide beautiful settings for outdoor activities. While natural lakes are not common, these reservoirs offer diverse landscapes for recreation.

Yes, several lakes are great for families. Lake Quattrocchi, for example, is a small natural body of water within the Nebrodi Park, surrounded by an oak forest and featuring an area equipped with tables, benches, and toilets, making it ideal for a picnic. The Athalassa National Forest Park, which includes Athalassa Lake, is also considered a family-friendly destination with extensive trails and an oasis of greenery.

The lakes and reservoirs offer various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and birdwatching. Many areas, like the Athalassa National Forest Park, have designated paths for these activities. Picnicking is also popular, especially at scenic spots like Tamassos Reservoir. Some lakes, such as Lake Pozzillo, have routes nearby for excursions on foot and by bicycle.

Generally, swimming in the lakes and reservoirs around Nicosia is not permitted. These bodies of water are primarily essential for water management and supply, so recreational swimming is restricted to ensure water quality and safety.

Absolutely! Many lakes are surrounded by excellent hiking opportunities. For instance, you can find trails around Lake Pozzillo. The Athalassa National Forest Park, home to Athalassa Lake, boasts an extensive network of trails (20 kilometers) perfect for walking. You can explore more hiking options in the region by checking out the Hiking around Nicosia guide.

Cycling is a popular activity around the lakes. The Athalassa National Forest Park offers designated paths for cycling. You can also find routes for both road cycling and touring bicycles in the wider Nicosia area. For detailed routes, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Nicosia and Cycling around Nicosia guides.

Several reservoirs in the Nicosia district are excellent for birdwatching. Tamassos Reservoir is a significant location where you might spot greater flamingos during migration seasons. Lympia Reservoir is another notable spot for birdwatching within the district. Athalassa Lake, within the National Forest Park, also attracts various bird species throughout the year.

The Athalassa National Forest Park, which includes Athalassa Lake, is a popular destination for dog walking on designated paths. It's advisable to check specific regulations for other reservoirs, but many natural areas are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash.

Campanito Pond is a natural basin that hosts a colony of turtles. It is one of the two Sambughetti lakes and is located within the area of Mount Sambughetti, known for its small natural reservoirs.

Tamassos Reservoir, located about 17 kilometers from Nicosia near Pera village, is a scenic and quiet spot ideal for a picnic with beautiful views of the water. Lake Quattrocchi also offers equipped picnic areas.

Yes, Kalopanayiotis Reservoir, though a bit further from Nicosia, is known for its beautiful nature and calm atmosphere. It features a trout farm and a specialty restaurant nearby where visitors can enjoy fresh produce, making it an excellent option for a family outing.

The Ancipa Dam, dating back to the 1950s, was built by blocking the course of the Troina stream. It is over 100 meters high and serves as an important resource for the water supply and electricity production in central Sicily.