Kotychi and Strofylia Wetlands National Park National Park

Address: Kotychi-Strofylia Wetlands National Park, Western Greece (Elis/ Achaea coastal zone)

Hours: Open daily sunrise-sunset

Admission: Free

Kotychi and Strofylia Wetlands National Park is a protected wetland complex on the Ionian Sea coast of Western Greece that combines a coastal lagoon and an adjoining coastal dune-forest. It is significant as a coastal wetland and habitat for migratory and resident waterbirds.

The site contains a shallow coastal lagoon with tidal exchange and an extensive dune-forest system dominated by coastal pines and dune vegetation. Key attractions are birdwatching at the lagoon margins, walking along the dune-forest edge, and views across the sandy coast; sheltered observation points line parts of the lagoon and shoreline.

The area has been placed under formal protection to conserve its wetland, dune and forest habitats and the species that use them, including seasonal concentrations of migratory waterbirds. It is included in European nature protection networks for habitat conservation.

Geographically the park sits on the northwestern Peloponnese/Ionian coast in Western Greece, where lagoon, dune and coastal forest meet the sea. The landscape is low-lying coastal terrain with sandy beaches and pine forest adjacent to the lagoon.

• Birdwatching seasons: Best birdwatching during spring and autumn migration, when numbers of waders and waterfowl increase and many species pass through the Ionian coast.
• Access and viewpoints: Access is via several small coastal villages and rural tracks; many observation points are along the lagoon edge and beach-dune interface.

What to See#

• Kotychi Lagoon: A shallow coastal lagoon connected intermittently to the sea and a focal point for waterbird concentrations and wetland vegetation.
• Strofylia Forest: A coastal pine-dominated dune forest and adjacent dune system that links the lagoon to the sandy coastline and supports terrestrial biodiversity.

The park lies on the western Peloponnese coast. From Patras it is roughly a 1-1.5 hour drive (via the E55 and regional roads); from Pyrgos it is about 30-45 minutes. Small access roads lead to carparks and observation hides; local signage at the main access points marks the lagoon and pine-forest trails.

• Birdwatchers should bring binoculars and a field guide for migrating waders; early morning is best for activity.
• Respect seasonal breeding zones-some lagoons are fenced or cordoned in summer to protect nests.
• Drive slowly on coastal roads; small access tracks to observation points can be sandy and rough.
• Combine a visit with the nearby sandy beaches of the Gulf of Kyparissia for a full day out.