katerina | Let's go on a trip

“Hooked up in pleasure”

by katerina | Dec 28,2016 | mountain resorts

“Agkistro” (= hook ), a small village close to the borders with Bulgaria, was picked as a relaxing destination during our Christmas holidays and it very much justified our choice! So here are all the secrets so that you can enjoy what it offers!

So we set off from Veria, on the second day of Christmas, choosing to follow the road to Kerkini and Ano Poroia. On our stop at Poroia we came upon the village’s Christmas feast: Every year, they organize the “Gournosfagia” ( slaughtering of pigs) at the main square. Smoked piglets, frying pancakes, crumbs and” tsipouro” are treated to visitors accompanied by music of course! We drank our coffee at “Nastou View Hotel” at the highest point of the village, enjoying a wonderful view of Lake Kerkini.

A 40 ‘drive led us to “Agkistro” through Promachonas. “Agkistro” is the northernmost village of the prefecture of Serres, built at the foot of the homonymous mountain (Mount Agkistro or “Tsigelli” at an altitude of 1,294m), near the well-known “Fort Rupel”, right next to the border line with neighboring Bulgaria. In the “Wooden Village”, Our hotel welcomed us with smiles and our good mood was enhanced when we got into the warm rooms (built with wooden trunks), fireplaces and exposed roofs. An intimidating environment especially when it got dark showing up the impressive Christmas decoration!

Time to eat, and since we came all the way, we had to try the homegrown trout cooked on charcoal. The waters of “Strymonas” river feed the village’s fish farm (you can navigate through the tanks), which also has a tavern that is open since 1977 (PEKAM). In its vintage decor, as if the we were transferred back in time, we enjoyed our fresh fish! The smoked trout was very delicious!

After coffee and chatting in the main building of “Wooden Village”, Antonia, the polite receptionist, fully enlightened us about the region! In the evening we went to the “Eight” café /bar of “Paroraia” Boutique Hotel . A wonderful place with cozy atmosphere and fine music! A must! We spent several hours of our 2day vacations on its sofas, around the fireplace enjoying our coffee, tea or drink!

Second Day: Morning walk in the village and visit to “Fort Rupel”

On our walk, we came by the square which is dominated by the stone, Byzantine tower, which was used as a prison or even as a place of execution during the Ottoman domination. Today it is just a clock, depicting the local architecture.

Following the signs from “Promachonas” (14km away), we drove to the “Fort Rupel”, incident to the resistance and heroism of the Greeks during the war with the Germans. It was never occupied, but was surrendered after the capitulation to the Germans on 10/4/1941. The fortress today is accessible (free of charge), daily from 9.00 to 13.00 (entrance accepted until 12.30). The tour includes first a brief presentation of the external space, a brief analysis of the military connections in this area at that time, and finally a visit into the “deep” land with the shelters, blockhouses and endless underground galleries. Impressive!

“Agkistro” and the “hamam”(Turkish word for the steam bath- the contemporary spa) are absolutely connected to each other! A little further below the “Wooden Village” are the “hamams” of the village. The Byzantine hamam, the oldest Turkish bath, dates back to 950 AD. And is characterized as a real monument. In recent years, it has been expanded, utilized and framed by additional modern halls and a community hotel (“Hamam”,hamamagistro.gr, tel. 2323041420). It is built right next to the Byzantine hamam. Upon appointment (make sure to book it earlier in the day), you can enjoy your steam bath in a mysterious atmosphere: from the surrounding hot springs there is a steady flow of hot water at 37-38 ° C creating dense water vapor. One can see the dim light of candles (electricity does not exist in the old hamam, but there are newly built as well). The thermal waters spring through the rocks of Mount Agkistro and, as they travel to the surface of the earth, acquire the metallic components, which are mainly to be credited for their healing properties. The benefits of using the hamam include, among others, the relief of musculoskeletal pain, relaxation of the muscles and improvement of skin conditions. The odorless water effectively releases the toxins from the body and embellishes the skin. The hot springs of Agkistro are considered among the best in Europe, and are open for 365 days, 24 hours a day. Just take with you a swimsuit, a towel, slippers and a cap if it’s winter) !!!

Two days are not enough to try the village taverns. We ate tasty zea pasta in “Don Pablo” but we did not get to taste the venison and other dishes of “Kyra Maria” (tel: 2323041144) and the kitchen of “Wooden Village”, for which we heard great comments! Check out the page: http://www.agistro.com/

“Agkistro Action”, the first Alternative Tourism Office in Greece, organizes tours at the decommissioned northern fortifications (Fortresses Line of Metaxas). At the same time, “Agkistro Action” organizes activities in nature (cycling, mountaineering, archery, kayaking, Fliyng fox, etc.). A very good choice! Get detailed information on their highly organized website: www.agkistroaction.gr or call (tel. 2323043033 & 6980138846)

If you would like to bring home with you some local products visit the “Traditional Product Shop”, just before entering the village (tel. 2323041210 & 6974458809). We , on the other hand drove up to “Irakleia” (20 ‘) to get the original “Tzoumagias sausages”! (In Coco)

We bid farewell to Agkistro and the people we met there, full of expectations for our next visit! Why not have come back here in spring!

The title ” Hooked up in pleasure” was “stolen” from the name of the homonymous cafe in the village! We loved it!

MORE ADOUT THE VILLAGE

The beginning of the history of the village is lost in the depths of the ages. During the reign of Philip II of Macedonia, in the 4th century BC, iron and gold mines of Mount Agkistro, were providing valuable material, along with the mines of Pangaio, to the campaign of Alexander the Great in Asia. This era is also marked by the discovery of the warm waters that flow from the mountains, resulting in a strong human presence in the area for the centuries to come. The stone bath dates back to the Byzantine era, as well as the tower in the center of the village, which served as a clock in the 14th century. During the Ottoman domination the village was called “Tsigelli”, with the bey (Turkish ruler) of the region and its harem enjoying the warm waters of the bath, as the monument was the private hamam.

Agkistro has suffered severe disasters in all the difficult moments of modern history (Balkan Wars, World War I, World War II, and Civil War). Due to its particular geopolitical position, is has been a militarized zone for many years. At present there are about 400 residents in the village who are mainly engaged in agriculture, livestock, beekeeping, logging, and tourism.

In the summer they organize the three-day cultural festival “Without Frontiers” (1st week in August) with concerts by popular Greek artists, dance groups and good local food, while on the third day, there is a River Party at the Mills

ABOUT THE HAMAM

We enter the hamam “prive”, by appointment, for half an hour or for an hour or even more if we want. We pay € 6.00 per person for half an hour (i.e. if we are a company of 4 people and we want the steam bath to ourselves for 1 hour, then we will pay a total of 40 €). The water is poured into a pool of 3×3 meters and depth of 1.20 m. At the peak hours it is difficult to find a free steam bath, so many people are even more comfortable in the post-hours! Attention: To the Byzantine Hamam priority is given to the residents of the “Hamam Hotel” and to those who stay overnight at the village. If it is winter, make sure you are warmly equipped because the new hamams are outside the hotel, so you have to go out and walk to the building or the car!

You can also get a massage. Ask for the services at “Hamam Hotel”

TIPS:

Distance

– Agkistro – Thessaloniki : 122 km

– Agkistro – Serres : 50 km

– Agkistro – Veroia: 191 km

– Agkistro – Rupel: 16 km, Agistro – Poroia: 50 km

Download the guide http://www.agistro.com/images/maps/Guide_FINAL.pdf

Keep in your mobile phone the site: http://www.agistro.com Find useful information about everything in the village!

Acheron in autumn colors

by katerina | Oct 27,2016 | lakes & rivers

Our “Acheron” excursion proved an ideal choice on an autumn weekend for the “pametaxidaki” group, although not it’s not a often picked as a destination by travelers in our region, especially at this time of the year. After 2.5 hours easy drive from Veria (Egnatia until the exit to Paramythia) and three toll stops we were transfered into a vast landscape of tranquility and outstanding natural beauty! At the village “Glyki”, right on the bank of the river amongst loaded orange trees!

Dominant in the region, the river of sorrow, carrying in its waters numerous mythological and unexplained metaphysical legends, it rolls its turquoise waters through the wild scenery of the gorge, tied to ancient Greek mythology, traditions of modern times (St. Donatos’ legend) and history of our country (wars of Souli, etc.). Hall of Underworld, Acheron was the last route for human souls towards “Acherousia” lake in depth of which it was believed that the Underworld is lockated. There boatman Charon directed the souls, collecting the donations in return for his services! Read more about the myths that “flow” in the river’s water here: http://www.prevezainfo.gr/nomosprevezas/prevezaaksiotheata/nekromanteiotouaxeronta/index.html

We stayed at “Glyki Ear», ( http://www.glikisear.gr/en/ , τηλ. 2666041007 ) a new hotel on a hill, overlooking the valley. In its well-equipped very tidy apartments, with kitchen, living room and balconies with a view. We have the best comments to make about Andriana’s hospitality in the wonderful apartments of “Glykis Ear”. About the accommodation prices, too! Ask us to introduce her to you!

Looking for a place to eat towards the center of the village was a bit of an adventure for us! Most restaurants open only until early in the evening at this time of the year. We had lunch at the “Acheron” tavern right by the river- tasty but standard food. The wine was good, too! The next day we chose the tavern near the springs ( “Springs of Acheron”). The tables are under the trees, next to the banks of river. Nice food there, as well but no exceptional dishes. Except “galotyri” which is a local product and was delicious! (Prices from 13 € per person)

What we did and what we recommend:

Cross the bridge and turn left. At the next street fork you will see a sign “Towards ” on the left. Arriving at the tavern next to the hotel “Acheron springs” the land widens offering magnificent river views. At that point starts a short footpath next to the river that leads to the springs. Walk the footpath! It is very compatible through the beautiful nature, along the banks where the river flows calmly.

However, the “must” of the area is to walk the path to the “Skala of Tzavelena”. You will see the sign pointing the way to “Souli” and the “Skala of Tzavelena” on your right. It is an uphill path offering incredible views to the river and the surrounding mountains. One can reach “Dala” bridge or, through the well-marked path climbing from 40 to 500m. altitude, head to “Souli”. (a 2.5 hours’ walk) It is the old path that connected “Souli” with the plain and besides the beautiful view of the “Straits of Acheron”, it passes by stone bridges and derelict mills leading to the old castle of “Kiafa” which was the main stronghold of “Souli”. (Not tested by us!)

More trails! At the fork we mentioned earlier, head right ways and at the next fork keep left. Once you see a plateau park your car. Take the uphill dirt road and after about 300 meters you will reach a tunnel. Cross it and follow the path through the forest of oaks and beeches, leading down to the river’s stone bridge. There the river flows impetuous forming puddles and ponds!!! Further on lays the old bridge of “Dala”. An easy route (45’) to and fro which we did early in the morning! A wonderful feeling!

If you are an adventure type, walking to the springs of Acheron, through the river with clear cold waters that reaches the knee or the waist, choose to visit the area in the summer! The route between the towering vertical cliffs of the canyon has been calculated at 1 hour and 30 minutes. You will need suitable equipment (swimwear and tight shoes) and physical fitness for the 2 km walking in the water and swimming against the tide for about 10-15 meters!

Otherwise, try one of the activities offered by the “Riverdream Action Club”. Vivi Markou escorted us to the descent by boat (rafting), an easy drive down until the bridge of the village. Bring shoes and clothes you do not mind getting them wet (ice cold water)! And of course, ensure the safety rules (e.g. life jackets, helmet) because you never know!!! If you do not want to get wet, go riding along the river banks or further up on the mountain! And a small tip: there are moments when people are queuing for these activities, which means a long delay (even to prebooked rides). On these occasions they cannot offer the best services as they would have liked or as they should.

Visit the “Necromanteion” (Oracle of the dead)! At 17 km (15’ far) from Glyki, in the village “Mesopotamos”, on top of a hill, stands the necromancy (5th-4th century BC.) The faithful came here to communicate with the souls of their loved ones. The site is open and the guards willingly give information about its history. (ticket: Full: € 8, Reduced: € 4 – includes the archaeological site Ephyra, as well. Check the visiting hours: tel: 26840 41206 and 2682089890 or visit the site: http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3/eh355.jsp?obj_id=13721 )

What was going on there? Find out here (at present only in greek):

http://www.prevezainfo.gr/nomosprevezas/prevezaaksiotheata/nekromanteiotouaxeronta/index.html

Take a coffee break at Mesopotamos the village with the neat streets or follow the road to “Ammoudia Beach” (5 km.) at the mouth of Acheron. Generally the access to the sea is very easy ( 5-10 km.)

Finally visit the heroic “Souli” by car or rather the villages of Souli area, since there is no village named Souli. Follow the paved road outside Glyki leading to “Samoniva”. It’s an uphill 20 km curvy road. I don’t think we saw any people on our way up and through the area! The imposing landscape, with numerous wells everywhere one next to each other! We visited the new Agia Paraskevi church and off to the scales they have constructed so that people that gather there, during the representation events of the blasting of gunpowder. An amphitheater to watch the events that take place every last Sunday of May opposite “Kougi”, where the monk Samuel with his five comrades blew up the warehouse in 1803. Further down, the road leads to “Kiafa” castle. The view from up there is spectacular they say. On your way back, stop at the abandoned watermills, where people used to grind their grain. The water falls from several meters high! A fairytale landscape!

A destination pleasing our vision, hearing and smell in the tranquility of the landscape of the area! A motivate for another trip there in the spring! Andriana, expect us again!

Distances

– Glyki – Mesopotamia (Necromancy): 19 km and Glyki – Beach: 20 km

– Glyki – Souli: 18km and Glyki – Paramythia: 19 km

– Glyki – Parga: 27 km and Glyki – Igoumenitsa: 56 km

– Glyki – Preveza: 59 km, Glyki – Arta: 88 km Gliki Ioannina 108 km

The island of Ammouliani in Halkidiki

by katerina | Sep 17,2016 | islands

The island of Ammouliani is located in Halkidiki, in the gulf of Mount Athos. Ferry transport is very frequent during the summer season, with a ferry departing every half hour from Trypiti. The voyage is very short since the mainland is only approximately 3.8km away and the city of Thessaloniki lies at a distance of 130 km. At just 20 minutes and for 2.20 € per person and you have reached the port of Ammouliani.

Check the ferry departure schedules because there are changes according to the season).

Ammouliani is a small island but having your car can be very handy! It does not cost much (10 €) and you can visit all the beaches of this small island! However, if you choose not to have a vehicle, it’s OK. There is a bus that awaits you at the harbor to take you plunging wherever you wish.

If you haven’t booked a room,yet, we unreservedly recommend “ARCHONTIKO” hotel. Clean and charming rooms, a variety of handmade breakfast (we loved the home-made orange jam). In June the room price was very reasonable. We are not sure about the rest of the summer!

It’s time to take your buckets and go to the beach!!! Here’s where we went! At the “Beach Bar Island”, “Karagatsia” and “Alykes” (Beach Bar Savana – last in the row, after the camping). Our humble opinion: If you like crowds go to “Alykes”, if you prefer calm, quiet beaches to go “Karagatsia”. Almost all beaches are organized. They provide you with two deck chairs and an umbrella without extra charge, just coffee or whatever else you order. (The Water bottle is for free).

Megali Ammos Beach, Beach Bar Island

“Karagatsia” beach

Alykes beach, Beach Bar Savana

Important Tip: If it’s windy on the island, don’t make second thoughts! Head to “Karagatsia” beach. There is a nice canteen for the “difficult hours”.

You can also take a day cruise around the island with stops at beaches or even to the smaller islands nearby. If you feel like Sinbad the Sailor, you can also rent your own boat for one day! It’s a great experience! You don’t need a licence!

Time for some cold coffee? Enjoy it in NAFTILOS or if your choice is for a drink,try AELIA SUMMER COCKTAIL BAR, both with a view to the harbor.

Are you hungry? We ‘ve got all the details for you! Try the fish tavern “TZANIS” , at a 10 minutes’ walk from the port (maybe 8). If you do, we suggest you taste couscous served with seafood. Respect! Great, polite service! If you don’t wish for a fish tavern, you have alternatives such as pizzerias, Greek fast food(gyros/souvlaki wrapped in pita) and small taverns with homemade dishes. There’s no way you will leave dissatisfied!

Now you expect us to suggest some evening bars … Fail! (It’s not that there aren’t any!) When you go on holiday in June you dream for absolute relaxation and peacefulness, so after dinner, you get back to your room early, turn on the air condition and cool down while watching old series on TV. Avoid the balcony! The raid of many (really a lot of) mosquitoes. Get a mosquito repellent to survive them.

So here is our overall opinion of Ammouliani! It is a beautiful island, with crystal clear sea, organized beaches, and everything in close proximity. The island size is such that you don’t need to spend time in transportation. It has several shops that cover the whole range of dining, entertainment, gift items and clothing. It also has amusement parks for young and older children. If you visit in June to calm and rest it’s a perfect destination.

TIP 1: If you come from Thessaloniki, choose the road via Egnatia motorway and take the turn at the crossroads for Stavros/Redina. (Otherwise, you may be stuck into Halkidiki’s heavy traffic)

TIP 2: The island is small. Not a good choice for long holidays.

Kalamata- a new top tourist destination

by katerina | Jul 27,2016 | coastline, Greece

The capital of Messinia is rapidly becoming a popular destination: the new road leading to its door in just 2.5 hours from Athens (although expensive in tolls), its international airport ( British Airways also lands here), its cruise port, the extensive network of bicycle lanes that has been embraced by residents and visitors, and even the balloon flights that started in mid-May and will last all summer. Moreover its wonderful beaches, the good food, a remarkable cultural movement and super archaeological sites emit it to the highest position on the preference lists as a destination! The fact that “Costa Navarino” is nearby has a positive influence on the area!

We stayed for two days at “Petra Thea” Guesthouse (tel. 6948262991/90 € per night) on the slope of Mount “Kalathi” in “Verga”, a suburb of Kalamata. Our stay will be unforgettable. Incredible view, comfort, cleanliness. A maisonette with wonderful furnishings, two bathrooms, two terraces …. To our right we could see the long beach with palm trees and umbrellas along “Navarino Boulevard”, offering both a walk and a bath and behind it the whole city. At our feet the long pebbled beach of “Verga”, full of beach bars and taverns. Opposite, the west coast of the Messinian Bay! We were reluctant to leave the balcony!

However, there are a lot to see in the area! Let’s start from the old town of Kalamata, located to the north of the modern city, built around the castle. Until the beginning of the last century, the city was rallied around the ancient acropolis and gradually began to expand until it joined the town with the harbor. Today it is demarcated by the metropolitan temple of “Ypapanti”, “Sparta” Street and the Square of “23 March” and has, among other things, assembled many places of youth especially during the winter months. Wander in the narrow streets and transfer to another era! Discover old buildings that have stood up over time, dozens of mansions, stone-built churches, museums, and shops with local products. In the area are also the Historical and Folklore Museum of Kalamata and the Archaeological Museum of Messinia.

The Castle now offers a unique view of the city. In the southern part there is a small theater that was built in 1950 and hosts most performances of the “International Dance Festival” (22 years of successful organization) and other events. Walk along the “Aristomenous” pedestrian street starting from the south where is the largest open-air railway museum in the country (OSE Park), within an area of 54 acres. The main building of the park is the renovated train station “Kalamata Port” where a refreshment center is located. (The truth is that it seemed to us a little neglected). Walk up the pedestrian street to the shops, cafes and some well-preserved neoclassical buildings. Exit the central square and turn right to “Stadiou” street, reach the historic square of the city, “23rd March” Square and to the left of the chapel of “Agioi Apostoloi”, where according to tradition the Greek Revolution of 1821 was declared on 23rd March. The square is surrounded by beautiful neoclassical and is linked to the historic city center with a picturesque pedestrian street. There, buy traditional Messinian products from “Philip”. Wonderful fresh,hot, handmade pastel!

Take a stroll along the beach that has plenty of taverns and bars to choose from. Get information about the events in the city at the time you visit it. With the serious nomination for the European Capital of Culture for 2021, it is a city of cultural effervescence!

For many suggestions for food, drink, etc. read here: http://www.athinorama.gr/travel/travelideas/articles.aspx?artid=2514979&c=710070&gr=1

The official site of the Municipality of Kalamata: http://www.kalamata.gr/

EXTRA

If you have time to dedicate to the area, visit the Ancient Messinian archaeological site with many important finds, 30 km northwest of Kalamata. Some of its most important monuments are the Temple of Asclepius and Health, the Conservatory, the “Voulefterion” (the parliament building), the Arcadian Gate of the Wall, the theater and the stadium. The findings are kept in a small two-storey museum on the outskirts of the village of “Mavromati”.

Following the Messinian coastline… Koroni – Finikounda – Methoni

by katerina | Jul 26,2016 | coastline, Greece

Following the Messinian coastline, from “Verga” Kalamatas to “Kalamata”, “Koroni” and further south, within beautiful Mediterranean landscapes and beautiful beaches, you have the chance to experience Messinia’s sites with rich history, traditional architecture and wonderful beaches. The road follows the coastline, sometimes closer or further away from the sea, passing through endless olive groves that produce the famous Messinian olive oil and quiet villages with low-lying tourist development (except for the most touristic “Petalidi”). First stop as planned is “Koroni”, then the sandy “Finikounda” and finally “Methoni”, with the Messinian “Oinousses” islands just opposite the town in the gulf. And among them, hidden, unexplored corners for the most active traveler.

The road from “Koroni’s Castle” to that of “Methoni’s” leads you from the Messinian Gulf to the Ionian Sea. The tourist infrastructure in the area now seems to start evolving. The poor condition of the road that is definitely delaying you is a problem. The driving time of 1.40’ from Kalamata to Methoni is definitely estimable!

Take the left exit on the road after “Nea Koroni”. Arriving at the amphitheater of “Koroni” start the tour of the castle still inhabited today. A most elegant example of Venetian fortress architecture and one of the few castles where houses and temples are preserved inside it, the castle of “Koroni” dominates with its imposing volume at the southern end of the Messinian Gulf. It was built by the Venetians in the 13th century and was reinforced by the Ottomans in the 16th century.

Walk in whitewashed alleys with old mansions, decorated with impressive roses on their balconies and courtyards with geraniums and enjoy the view from the upper breathtaking neighborhoods. Buy local products: olive oil, honey, olives, mizithra cheese, noodles …. Going down to the harbor, the taverns with the octopuses that are lit in the row will whet your appetite. If you feel like taking a swim, the long sandy beach of “Memi” or “Zaga” to the west, on the way to “Finikounda”, is the best option, with its salt cedar trees, a camping site and beach volley courts.

Back to the road leading to “Finikounda”, heading first to the port of “Finikounda”. A popular choice by families with infrastructure (rooms, taverns, shops) and a sandy beach in front of the settlement! Taste local dishes in “Elena”. It’s a fish tavern on a hill with a view and fresh fish, nicely cooked (Finikounda, tel:2723071235). The long beach of Mavrovouni ( low profile), quiet with a nice beach bar / tavern (“Mytilini”) and a surfing center was our choice for a swim. A little further, on the way to “Methoni, you pass by the “Lampes” beach (a more youthful one) Both big and organized beaches at least in a part of them.

In the past years, visitors had a choice of taking a cruise around the Messinian Oinouses islands on a boat. It was sailing to “Sapientza” Island with the stone lighthouse and the strawberry trees’ forest but also kri kris, partridges, mouflons(sheep) and others, but also to the islands of “Schiza” and “Agia Mariani”, all included in the Natura Network. We didn’t check into it, just read it in a guide book. Ask at “Finikounda” or “Methoni” if you are up to it!

Off to “Methoni”! Our incentive was the visit to its famous Venetian castle. Built in the early 13th century on a rocky peninsula, it is one of the largest in the Mediterranean, with the early Christian granite column (“Morozini column”), the Turkish baths, Ibrahim’s house, the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior, as well as a mosque and a Catholic church. No words about the dazzling view of the Ionian sea and “Oinousses” islands! Through the sea gate you reach “Bourtzi” , the last two-storey and octagonal tower of the castle, a place of prison and executions once. The impressive entrance, a stone bridge with 14 arches, the imposing gate of the castle decorated with reliefs -the built-in lion of St. Mark standing out, (being a symbol of Venice) – impress the visitors! Tracks, coats of arms, inscriptions, Venetian rulers’ ruins, relics of two Ottoman baths and bastions are just some of the castle’s attractions. (Open daily, except Mondays, 08.30-15.00, tel:2721022534).

More about the two castles of Methoni and Koroni,

here: http://www.visitgreece.gr/el/castles/the_castles_of_methoni_and_koroni

Methoni has a small beach right at the feet of the castle and beyond its pier, but it is also quite narrow and too close to the road. This area has not yet been developed and you have to drive on dirt roads. See on map: https://www.google.gr/maps/@36.8172965,21.7108142,1411m/data=!3m1!1e3

Where to eat! Find the “Klimataria” tavern (tel: 2723031544) and enjoy its delicacies in the paved courtyard under a huge arbor.

TIPS

If you choose this route, leave the visit to “Finikounda” at the end and combine it with swimming and eating. The castles are only open in the morning (and until 15.00) and you will not have time for the visit otherwise. Water and a hat are necessary if it is a summer month. The areas are in the south and are really hot especially during July-August.