Epanomi Wetlands

South of Epanomi village and east of Potamos Beach, a network of salt marshes, lagoons, and dune systems forms a compact nature reserve that most tourists drive past on the way to the beach. The Epanomi wetlands cover several hundred hectares between the village and the coastline, and they're one of the best birdwatching spots in the Thermaikos region — accessible without a long drive and rarely crowded even in peak season.

The Habitat

The wetland system at Epanomi is a mosaic of salt marsh, shallow lagoon, reedbed, and sandy dune. The lagoon is separated from the sea by a sand bar that shifts seasonally. The salt marsh behind the dunes supports halophyte plants adapted to high salinity — tamarisk, glasswort, and sea lavender. The reedbed sections host breeding warblers and herons in summer.

What to See: Birds

Year-round residents include little egret, grey heron, kingfisher, great cormorant, and marsh harrier. In spring, the area becomes active with breeders: little tern and Kentish plover nest on the sand spits near the lagoon mouth. Waders pass through in large numbers during spring and autumn migration. In winter, the lagoon attracts diving ducks and occasional flamingo records (rare but documented).

The reedbed sections, when approached quietly, reveal reed warbler, Cetti's warbler (easily heard, rarely seen — listen for the explosive song burst), and in spring, the lesser grey shrike perches on tamarisk bushes near the marsh edge.

Getting There

From Thessaloniki, take the coastal road south through Peraia and Nea Epivates, continuing to Epanomi. From Epanomi village, follow signs toward Potamos Beach. The wetland access tracks branch off the main beach road on the right (east) side. No formal visitor infrastructure — this is unsignposted and requires a bit of exploring. Best approach: park at Potamos Beach car park and walk north along the coast and into the dune system.

Visiting Tips

• Early morning gives the best bird activity and softer light for photography.
• Bring insect repellent in June–July — the marsh edge produces mosquitos at dusk.
• The lagoon mouth shifts seasonally: water levels change dramatically between summer and winter.
• Respect restricted access signs near tern nesting sites in May–June.
• Combine with Potamos Beach for a morning of nature followed by an afternoon swim.

Combined with Potamos Beach

Potamos Beach (Epanomi) is one of the most pleasant beaches in the immediate Thermaikos area — long, sandy, wilder than the Peraia strip, and quieter. A morning walk through the wetlands followed by an afternoon on Potamos Beach is a very satisfying day out from Thessaloniki, with both experiences fitting easily within 35 km of the city.