Parnonas Path

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Dogs Leashed

Features Cave · Geological Significance · Historical Significance · Spring · Swimming · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Logistics
The parnon ridge is a hidden gem for hiking but the area is not developed for it yet, so finding accommodation or transportation to the starting and from the finish point was hard. Luckily, we found a travel agency that does precisely that, makes nature accessible for the FITs, The name of the agency is NOMIA EXPERIENCE and I strongly recommend to use their services.
GETTING FROM THE AIRPORT TO LEONIDIO
There are two option to get to Leonidio by plain, one is from Athens, second from kalamata.
We took a flight to Athens because it is easier to get from there to Leonidio by public transportation.
We arrived at the airport in Athens at 6:00AM and took line 93 X to the central station of Athens (KTL BUS STATION)
We bought a ticket at platform 17 to Leonidio and got on the bus at 8:30AM. From the moment we got off the highway the drive was breathtaking with the seaside views, islands, and mountains.
The journey took 4.5 hours, we arrived around 1:00 PM.

LEONIDIO

Leonidio is a very beautiful village that is located in a valley surrounded by spectacular cliffs on the eastern shores of the Peloponnese. In the last decade the area has become famous as one of the best rock-climbing spots in Greece and as a result of that tourism has started to be developed. It is a small village, but you can find there everything, a supermarket, taverns, AIR BNB hotels and even a bookstore that sells maps of the parnon. The only thing we were looking for and didn't find was a hostal

**Day 1: Kosmas to Agios Vasilios**

we start oure early, fueled by pastries from a local bakery in leonidio then took a cab to the villge of kosmas the heart of Parnonas. Follow the ribbon markers, winding through a lush fir forest, pausing for a refreshing break by a crystal-clear stream. As you ascend, catch glimpses of the historic Agios Georgios Monastery. The trail continues, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Finally, arrive in the charming village of Agios Vasilios, where you can savor a delicious dinner at the local tavern.

**Key Stats:**
* Distance: 17 km
* Ascent: 640 m
* Descent: 850 m

**Day 2: Agios Vasilios to Kastanitsa**

Kickstart your day with a cherry-picking adventure before indulging in a hearty breakfast at the local tavern. The trail leads through a serene fir forest, offering moments of tranquility. Reach the picturesque village of Prestos, with its stone houses and slate roofs. Descend to the Mazaria Stream, a breathtaking gorge. Ascend to Kastanitsa, a charming village nestled in a wooded valley.

**Key Stats:**
* Distance: 17 km
* Ascent: 1000 m
* Descent: 1000 m

**Day 3: Kastanitsa to Platanos**

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast in Kastanitsa. Embark on a thrilling descent into a stunning gorge, following the stream's course. Refresh yourself in the inviting water pools of Splika Gorge. Ascend towards Platanos, a picturesque village with a tranquil stream running through its center.

**Key Stats:**
* Distance: 14 km
* Ascent: 505 m
* Descent: 900 m

**Day 4: Platanos to Agios Elias**

Rise early and embark on a challenging ascent to Megali Tourla. The trail winds through diverse landscapes, from olive groves to dense forests, culminating in a breathtaking view from the summit. Descend to the Agios Elias Monastery, where you can savor a well-deserved meal.

**Key Stats:**
* Distance: 16 km
* Ascent: 1250 m
* Descent: 200 m (adjusted to 2500 m as per your correction)

Our trek through Parnonas offered a remarkable journey through diverse ecosystems, from Mediterranean forests teeming with olive trees and pines to dense fir forests. At higher elevations, we encountered alpine flora, including a variety of wildflowers and shrubs. The wildlife we encountered was equally captivating, with numerous butterflies gracing our path. we saw montain gout and ship that was belong to the local sheprad. While rabbit sightings were noted we didnt saw a lot of large Mammal probably becuse of hunting . The stark contrast between these ecosystems highlighted the mountain's rich biodiversity, making it a haven for nature enthusias.