Hiking in the mountainous trails of Andritsaina is an activity that combines physical exercise with exploring the cultural heritage of the area. The trails include passages through the Lousios Gorge, visits to archaeological sites, such as the Asklepieion of Ancient Gortys, and a visit to the historic monasteries of Filosofou and Prodromos.
The natural landscape, filled with olive groves and dense forests, offers amazing images and a feeling of calm and contact with nature.
1. Path of Zeus
Ano Karyes – Krampova Spring – Lycaon – Ano Karyes
If you dream of immersing yourself in a place full of history and mythology, the Zeus Trail is for you. Starting from Ano Karyes, this route takes you to the sacred peak of Mount Lycaon, a spot that, according to tradition, the ancient Greeks considered the “holiest of sanctuaries”. The experience of climbing with the gradual revelation of the stunning landscape is truly unforgettable. When you reach the top, your reward is the breathtaking panoramic view, reaching as far as the Ionian Islands.
Suggested solution: Don't forget to bring binoculars to fully enjoy the view from the top and comfortable hiking shoes. The gradual climb is easy, but good preparation makes the experience even more enjoyable.
Distance: 9 km.
Duration: 5 hours
Difficulty level: Easy
2. Freedom Trail
Ampeliona – Petra village (older name Delga) – Neda Springs – Kakaletreiki Panagia, Neda River
This route is for those seeking the ultimate connection with nature and relaxation. The Freedom Trail starts from Ampeliona Square and crosses forests full of plane trees and small chapels, which exude tranquility. The springs of Neda, at the end of the route, offer an ideal spot for rest and contact with nature. This easy, relaxing route is a perfect solution for families and beginner hikers.
Suggested solution: Pack a well-organized picnic backpack and enjoy the beauty of the springs. The gentle slopes of the route make the experience easy and ideal for all ages.
Distance: 8 km.
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty level: Easy
3. Path of Light
Temple of Apollo Epicurius, Andritsaina, Anathema
If you are looking for an experience that will fill you with energy and awe, then the Path of Light is exactly what you need. Starting from Andritsaina, this route offers you panoramic views that stretch across the Peloponnese, until you reach the mysterious Temple of Apollo Epicurius. The sense of history and the natural beauty of the area will make you feel like you are walking through the centuries.
Suggested solution: Don't forget to bring a hat and sunscreen, as the route offers open, sunny areas. Save space on your mobile phone for unique photos of the landscape and the temple.
Distance: 11.6 km.
Duration: 4 hours 25 minutes
Difficulty level: Moderate
4. Path of Healing
Ampeliona, Chestnut Grove, Temple of Apollo Epicurius
If you feel the need to recharge your body and spirit, this route is the ideal therapy. The Healing Path leads you through chestnut and oak forests, offering a sense of absolute peace and tranquility. The path ends at the Temple of Apollo Epicurius, a place that combines natural beauty with spirituality.
Suggested solution: Bring light yoga mats for short meditation breaks. The serenity of the trail makes it ideal for those looking to reconnect with themselves and nature.
Distance: 7.7 km.
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Difficulty level: Moderate
5. Path of Joy
Starting Point: Petra
End Point: Stavrouli
The Path of Joy is the perfect choice for a short but fulfilling experience. As you ascend from the village of Petra to Stavrouli, every step fills you with joy and excitement from the unique view that unfolds before you. The view towards Kyparissia and the Temple of Apollo Epicurius is magnificent and invites you to stop and enjoy the moment.
Suggested solution: Ideal for a morning or afternoon walk. Don't forget your camera to capture the magnificent view.
Distance: 3.1 km.
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Difficulty level: Easy
6. Path of Simplicity
Crosses: Chestnut Forest, Marina, Sklerou
If you wish to enjoy the simplicity and tranquility of nature, this trail is exactly what you need. Crossing the dense chestnut and oak forests, this route brings you close to authentic Greek nature and traditional rural life. The village of Sklerou at the end of the route is a destination full of authenticity and tranquility.
Suggested solution: This route is ideal for those who love solitude in nature. Take a light picnic backpack with you and enjoy the tranquility in the middle of the forest.
Distance: 12 km.
Duration: 5 hours 10 minutes
Difficulty level: Moderate
7. Path of Love
Crosses: Ampeliona, Andritsaina
This route is full of tension and emotions. The Love Path connects Ampeliona with Andritsaina and offers a hiking experience that will leave you full of energy and admiration for the simplicity and power of nature. The panoramic views of the Lycaon and Tetrazi mountains add a magical feel to your journey.
Suggested solution: Ideal for groups of friends or couples who want to share the experience of an impressive hike. Don't forget to bring a small diary to record your thoughts and experiences.
Distance: 11.9 km.
Duration: 5 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate
8. Sacred Path
Crosses: Ampeliona, Agios Sostis, Altar of Zeus
If you are looking for more than just a hike, the Sacred Path will take you on a spiritual journey. The steep climb brings you to the top of Mount Lycaon, where you will find the Altar of Zeus, a place of deep historical and mythological significance. The feeling of being in a sacred space is captivating.
Suggested solution: This trail is ideal for experienced hikers looking for a challenge. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and proper equipment for the climb.
Distance: 6.9 km.
Duration: 3 hours 25 minutes
Difficulty level: Moderate
9. Path of Bliss
It crosses: Ampeliona, Agios Sostis, Relics of the Sanctuary of Pan, Neda village, Pigi Tritseli
This trail offers you the opportunity to experience the harmony of nature and history. Starting from Ampeliona, the route passes through dense forests and ends at the Sanctuary of Pan, an archaeological site of particular importance. The combination of natural beauty and history is truly blissful.
Suggested solution: Ideal choice for those who want to combine hiking and exploring archaeological sites. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the unique moments.
Distance: 9.9 km.
Duration: 4 hours 10 minutes
Difficulty level: Moderate
10. Pan's Path
If you are looking for a trail that will bring you closer to the nature and cultural heritage of the area, the Panas Trail is what you are looking for. Starting from the village of Neda, the route offers you panoramic views of the Neda Valley and Ano Karyes, with a sense of connection to the local nature and history.
Suggested solution: This route is ideal for a morning walk. Enjoy the tranquility of the landscape and don't forget to bring water and light snacks to enjoy at the end of the route.
Distance: 5.6 km.
Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes
Difficulty level: Moderate
11. Neda's Path
If you're craving an adventure, the Neda Trail is what you need. The only female river in Greece, full of waterfalls, gorges and ancient bridges, is waiting for you to explore.
Starting from Platania
The adventure begins in the village of Platania, where the path leads you alongside the riverbanks. The centuries-old plane trees and oaks create a natural tunnel of shade that makes the hike cool even on the hottest days. As you progress, you will come across the picturesque stone bridges, such as the bridge of Stolou, that connect the two banks and exude a sense of ancient history.
The Neda Waterfalls
The route continues with the most impressive part: the Neda waterfalls. The water falls with force, creating cool pools where you can enjoy a refreshing dip. This moment will make you feel like you are in a natural paradise.
Path Inside the Gorge
The path leads you through the impressive Neda Gorge, with the rocks rising up around you. The wild beauty of nature combined with the sound of flowing water create a unique experience that will fascinate you.
Termination in Figaleia
The route ends in the village of Figaleia, where you can enjoy traditional hospitality and explore the nearby Temple of Apollo Epicurius.
Route Information
Distance: 8-10 km.
Duration: 4.5 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate
12. Tie Path
Are you ready for a hiking experience like no other?
The Tie Trail, in the enchanting Dryo Forest of Foloi, promises exactly that: adventure, natural beauty and a touch of humor that makes it unique. Who would have thought that you would be heading among giant oak trees marked by… ties? Yes, you read that right! This trail doesn’t have the usual hiking signs, but its creators decided to do something completely different – tie ties to the trees!
The Beginning of the Adventure
As you begin your hike, you will find yourself immersed in the heart of the largest oak forest in the Balkans. The Foloi Forest seems to have sprung from some ancient myth. The towering oaks, with their dense branches, create a lush green canopy above your head, making you feel like you are in a hidden world. Don’t forget, you are in a place full of mythology: Here lived the centaur Folos, who helped Hercules in his legendary adventures.
The Signage That Guides You… in Style
If you’re expecting the usual trail signs, be prepared to be surprised. On the Tie Trail, the organizers didn’t think conventionally. As you traverse the trail, you’ll see hundreds of ties hanging from the trees, marking the route! This unusual and humorous approach gives a relaxed, fun touch to hiking. Suddenly, your path among the oaks turns into an adventure that combines nature with the unexpected.
Route Information
Distance: 8 km.
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty level: Moderate
