Among all the destinations we’ve visited in Greece, we can confidently say that Kastoria gave us the most wonderful time.
For much of its history, the city built its identity and economy around a single product: fur. Once hailed as the fur capital of Greece, Kastoria was a city of furriers — skilled artisans who crafted, repaired, and sold fur garments. Many believe that the city’s very name is derived from kastoras, the Greek word for “beaver”, which was a primary source of fur.
For generations, fur was the lifeblood of Kastoria’s economy. Walk around today and you’ll still spot fur stores and workshops scattered across the city — some family-run like Almahats, and others larger in scale, such as Vitaniolis or Soulis. But while the legacy lives on, the once-booming industry has slowed significantly. We were told that as of our 2023 visit, only 16 masters remained who could perform one of the most intricate tasks in the trade: skin matching, a skill that takes years, even decades, to perfect.
With the world moving away from fur, many locals have begun shifting to new opportunities, and one promising avenue is tourism.
Set on a stunning lakeside peninsula in Northern Greece, Kastoria may be a bit out of the way, but it’s that very fact that makes it so special. Travelers who go off the beaten path are rewarded with a peaceful, authentic experience filled with natural beauty, deep-rooted culture, and historic charm. As word spreads, it won’t be long before more tourists discover what this captivating city has to offer, so now is the perfect time to visit. Here are just some of the best places to visit in Kastoria.
Lake Orestiada
Because it lies at the very heart of the Kastoria regional unit, Lake Orestiada is often referred to simply as Kastoria Lake or the Lake of Kastoria. But its more poetic name, Orestiada, harks back to Greek mythology, specifically the oriades — mountain nymphs believed to dwell in the highlands. And honestly, standing by its shores, it’s easy to believe there’s still a touch of magic lingering in the air.
This lake is nothing short of enchanting in every season. In autumn, the trees along its banks explode in fiery colors, making it a dream for photographers and leaf-peepers alike. In winter, it freezes over, turning into a silvery sheet of ice, while spring and summer welcome boats gliding…
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