Among Greece’s characteristic freshwater habitats, the riparian forests dominated by plane trees (Platanus orientalis) stand out as biodiversity hotspots and serene natural sanctuaries. On our tours, we admire both the complex ecological functioning and the calming atmosphere of these species-rich woodland systems.

One of our featured locations begins with a visit to a natural thermal spring, where mineral-rich, warm waters offer a rejuvenating experience — and those inclined can even bathe in these healing waters.

Winding streams and small rivers traverse the plane tree groves, creating habitats for several rare and endemic freshwater species. We actively seek to observe endemic fish such as the Struma barbel (Barbus strumicae), Struma spirlin (Alburnoides strymonicus), Thracian chub (Squalius orpheus), and Macedonian stream lamprey (Caspiomyzon hellenicus).

In addition, freshwater crabs and amphibians native to the Balkan Peninsula inhabit these waters. Along the fallen trunks of ancient plane trees, basking Mauremys rivulata, the Balkan terrapin, can often be spotted, adding further interest to this rich riparian ecosystem.