Menalon Trail, "Part A"

After a 200km drive from Athens you arrive at the picturesque village of Stemnitsa. Update about the routes, maps and a T-shirt as a gift for the effort at the Menalon Trail office. Overnight at the beautiful guesthouse in Stemnitsa, as the next day will start early in the morning.

After leaving the village of Stemnitsa, walk to the church of Metamorphosis, overlooking the gorge of Lousios to Dimitsana. On the opposite bank of the river, ascend through a dense forest to the old and new monasteries of the Philosopher. Next stop Dimitsana. Visit the Open Air Museum of Hydroelectric Energy if you wish.

Total walking distance: 13 km

Leave Dimitsana through the fields and gradually ascend to Zygovisti enjoying the wonderful view of  Lousios valley. From Zygovisti  walk through open forests and descend through dense fir trees and along streams and springs to Elati village. The last part to Elati is a short climb through a wonderful romantic forest.

Total walking distance: 20 km

From Elati descend through a mystical forest to the river Chroniko which you follow for 2,5 km. Pass through springs and the Agion Theodoron Monastery. About 2 km before you reach Vytina climb a steep rocky slope to reach your final destination.

At the end of the route a taxi will be waiting for you in Vytina to take you back to Stemnitsa where you have left your car. You will need to make a short stop in Elati to get your luggage while on your way to Stemnitsa. There you can either stay one more night or travel back home.

Total walking distance: 9 km