A Weekend Getaway to Kalavryta and Mount Helmos

The Vouraikos Gorge, Lake Tsivlou, the Cave of the Lakes, and the Waters of Styx are only a few of the sights inside the Helmos-Vouraikos Geopark – one in every of eight Greek geoparks included in UNESCO’s World Geoparks Community. The Helmos mountain vary, often known as the Aroania Mountains, rises to 2,355 meters and boasts quite a lot of fascinating landscapes. Its wealthy historical past and proximity to Athens make it a really perfect spring getaway into nature.

By Cog Railway or On Foot

You’ll want to experience on the cog railway, the historic practice that has related Diakopto and Kalavryta since 1896. This similar 22-kilometer stretch can also be a part of the European E4 path. Mountain climbing via the Vouraikos Gorge is a should for trekkers visiting the realm, because the path runs alongside the railway tracks. You’ll be able to mix mountaineering with a practice experience to ease the journey whereas nonetheless experiencing the gorge’s wealthy flora and pure magnificence. The descent is far simpler – ranging from Zachlorou, you’ll be able to hike about 14 kilometers to Diakopto after which take the practice again.

Into the Depths of the Cave

One in every of Greece’s most spectacular caves, the Cave of the Lakes, is called for the 13 small lakes present in its inside. It’s positioned close to the village of Kastria, 16 kilometers from Kalavryta. Alongside the 500-meter customer route, you’ll see three lakes and distinctive geological formations, together with the monumental stalactites that adorn its ceiling. The positioning is open each day from 9:00 to 16:30 (17:30 on weekends). Admission: €9.

The Waters of Styx

Spring is the very best time to deal with the hike to the Waters of Styx, positioned at an altitude of 1,800 meters. The basic route begins from the village of Ano Mesorougi, passing via forested areas and tougher rocky components. It’s a demanding hike, greatest tried with an skilled mountain information.

Picnic by the Lake

Lake Tsivlou was shaped by an enormous landslide in 1913 that blocked the Krathis River. Sitting at 700 meters and surrounded by fir timber, it’s a peaceable spot for a brief hike or a picnic by the water. The lake is simply 13 kilometers from Zarouchla.

Scenic Drive

One of the crucial lovely drives within the space is the 30-kilometer route linking Zarouchla to Kalavryta. The paved street climbs from the forested slopes of Zarouchla into alpine terrain, earlier than descending via the fir forests to the historic village of Kalavryta. Alongside the way in which, you’ll go via the village of Peristera and its namesake go, providing beautiful views of Helmos’ majestic peaks, and skirt the sting of the ski middle earlier than reaching Kalavryta.