Drive from Athens to Stemnitsa. Stemnitsa, a charming mountain village, serves as our starting point. Nestled in a valley, the village boasts cobblestone streets and traditional stone-built houses. We begin our journey by exploring local landmarks, such as the Church of St. John the Baptist, adorned with impressive frescoes, and the Folklore Museum, which offers insights into the region’s cultural heritage. We enjoy the tranquility of Stemnitsa as we prepare for the adventure ahead.

Distance (km): 12.5 – Time (hrs): 5 – Ascent (m): 500 – Descent (m): 600

The trail from Stemnitsa to Dimitsana takes us through pristine landscapes, offering panoramic views of the Menalon mountain range. As we hike, we will encounter dense forests, meadows, and perhaps spot local wildlife. Dimitsana, a village known for its stone houses and historical significance, awaits us at the end of the day. Explore the narrow streets, visit the Open-Air Water Power Museum, and absorb the rich history of this picturesque settlement.

Distance (km): 19.1 – Time (hrs): 7.5 – Ascent (m): 620 – Descent (m): 350

The trail from Dimitsana to Zygovisti introduces us to the diverse flora of the Menalon region. As we ascend and descend through the mountainous terrain, take in the beauty of the surroundings. Zygovisti, a small village with traditional architecture, provides a peaceful retreat.

Continuing our tour from Zygovisti to Elati we admire the landscape dominated by chestnut and fir trees. Elati, surrounded by lush greenery, is a perfect spot to unwind. Explore the village, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the serenity of this natural haven. The evening offers a chance to recharge and connect with the tranquil environment.

Distance (km): 14.1 – Time (hrs): 4.5 – Ascent (m): 260 – Descent (m): 560

As we trek from Elati to Vytina, we witness the changing scenery and diverse ecosystems along the trail. Vytina, a traditional mountain village, welcomes us with a central square surrounded by charming shops and cafes. Explore the village’s architecture, visit local artisan shops, and immerse ourself in the cultural richness of Vytina.

After resting and provisioning, we leave Vytina and continue on the route leading to Nymphasia. We reach Old Vytina and the trailhead of the footpath that will leads to Mavra Litharia, a massive limestone boulder in the riverbed of Milaon River, that the stream cut in half creating a short yet impressive gorge. From here start descending to the Tzavarenas’ bridge, a solid stone bridge that secured the connection between Vytina with the western gortynian villages. We reach Nymphasia, a small yet lively satellite of Vytina.

Distance (km): 15.5 – Time (hrs): 6 -Ascent (m): 610 -Descent (m): 360

Leaving behind Nymfasia we enter a pleasant oak wood, ascending to the Kernitsas Monastery, a big monastic complex nested in an impressive monolith boulder. We cross a dense fir forest and arrive at Sfyrida Hermitage, a nice place to rest with a spring. From Sfyrida, we hike to Magouliana and continue to the saddle west of the village, which has a great view. We descend toward the old sanatorium, known as the Mana Sanatorium, then along a river to Valtesiniko.

Distance (km): 13.9 – Time (hrs): 5 – Ascent (m): 500 – Descent (m): 700

From Valtesiniko square, we pass by the impressive stone-built school, then climb up to 1,250 meters, where the footpath runs along the ridge where a Byzantine fortress is nested. We descend through open landscapes with stunning views. The next part of the route traverses an extensive fir forest to the great Grilas meadow, full of walnut trees. On the western edge of this zone, we see Lagkadia, passing by the small Koubliza Spring and the impressive complex of Rapi Watermills. We enter Lagkadia (the village of the stone builders).

We summarize our seven day hiking tour in Menalon Trail and we are heading back to Athens.