Overview

The Menalon Trail extends to a length of 75 km. It passes through the villages of Arcadia, Stemnitsa, Dimitsana, Zygovitsi, Elati, Vytina, Nymfasia, Magouliana, Valtesiniko and Lagkadia.

Through the path the hiker has the opportunity to enjoy the natural environment of mountainous Arcadia, to visit its historic villages, to meet the local population and to taste the local food.

We explore an award-winning hiking route through Arcadia, a gorgeous and leader-known region of Greece.

We will discover natural beauty and historical importance at the same time, passing through villages that have existed for many years.

We hike through magnificent river gorges, valleys, through forests, and along the scenic slopes and the Gortynian Mountains.

We enjoy staying in charming guesthouses away from the bustle of the most commonly visited hotspots.

Description

Day 1: Athens – Stemnitsa

Stop At: Stemnitsa, Stemnitsa Greece
Drive from Athens to Stemnitsa. Stemnitsa, a charming mountain village, serves as our starting point. Nestled in a valley, the village boasts cobblestone streets and traditional stone-built houses. We begin our journey by exploring local landmarks, such as the Church of St. John the Baptist, adorned with impressive frescoes, and the Folklore Museum, which offers insights into the region’s cultural heritage. We enjoy the tranquility of Stemnitsa as we prepare for the adventure ahead.
Duration: 5 hours

Meals included:
Lunch: Lunchbox
Dinner
Accommodation included:
Guesthouse in Stemnitsa

Day 2: Stemnitsa – Dimitsana

Stop At: Dimitsana, Dimitsana Greece
Distance (km): 12.5
Time (hrs): 5
Ascent (m): 500
Descent (m): 600
The trail from Stemnitsa to Dimitsana takes us through pristine landscapes, offering panoramic views of the Menalon mountain range. As we hike, we will encounter dense forests, meadows, and perhaps spot local wildlife. Dimitsana, a village known for its stone houses and historical significance, awaits us at the end of the day. Explore the narrow streets, visit the Open-Air Water Power Museum, and absorb the rich history of this picturesque settlement.
Duration: 6 minutes

Meals included:
Lunch: Lunchbox
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Guesthouse in Dimitsana

Day 3: Dimitsana – Zygovitsi – Elati

Stop At: Menalon Trail Point 4, Elati 220 10, Greece
Distance (km): 19.1
Time (hrs): 7.5
Ascent (m): 620
Descent (m): 350
The trail from Dimitsana to Zygovisti introduces us to the diverse flora of the Menalon region. As we ascend and descend through the mountainous terrain, take in the beauty of the surroundings. Zygovisti, a small village with traditional architecture, provides a peaceful retreat.

Continuing our tour from Zygovisti to Elati we admire the landscape dominated by chestnut and fir trees. Elati, surrounded by lush greenery, is a perfect spot to unwind. Explore the village, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the serenity of this natural haven. The evening offers a chance to recharge and connect with the tranquil environment.
Meals included:
Lunch: Lunchbox
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Gueshouse in Elati

Day 4: Elati – Vytina – Nymfasia

Stop At: Vytina, Vytina Greece
Distance (km): 14.1
Time (hrs): 4.5
Ascent (m): 260
Descent (m): 560
As we trek from Elati to Vytina, we witness the changing scenery and diverse ecosystems along the trail. Vytina, a traditional mountain village, welcomes us with a central square surrounded by charming shops and cafes. Explore the village’s architecture, visit local artisan shops, and immerse ourself in the cultural richness of Vytina.

After resting and provisioning, we leave Vytina and continue on the route leading to Nymphasia. We reach Old Vytina and the trailhead of the footpath that will leads to Mavra Litharia, a massive limestone boulder in the riverbed of Milaon River, that the stream cut in half creating a short yet impressive gorge. From here start descending to the Tzavarenas’ bridge, a solid stone bridge that secured the connection between Vytina with the western gortynian villages. We reach Nymphasia, a small yet lively satellite of Vytina.
Meals included:
Lunch: Lunchbox
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Guesthouse in Vytina or Nymfasia

Day 5: Nymfasia – Magouliana – Valtsesiniko

Stop At: Valtesiniko, Valtesiniko Greece
Distance (km): 15.5
Time (hrs): 6
Ascent (m): 610
Descent (m): 360
Leaving behind Nymfasia we enter a pleasant oak wood, ascending to the Kernitsas Monastery, a big monastic complex nested in an impressive monolith boulder. We cross a dense fir forest and arrive at Sfyrida Hermitage, a nice place to rest with a spring. From Sfyrida, we hike to Magouliana and continue to the saddle west of the village, which has a great view. We descend toward the old sanatorium, known as the Mana Sanatorium, then along a river to Valtesiniko.
Meals included:
Lunch: Lunchbox
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Gueshouse in Valtesiniko

Day 6: Valtesiniko – Lagkadia

Stop At: Lagkadia, Lagkadia Greece
Distance (km): 13.9
Time (hrs): 5
Ascent (m): 500
Descent (m): 700
From Valtesiniko square, we pass by the impressive stone-built school, then climb up to 1,250 meters, where the footpath runs along the ridge where a Byzantine fortress is nested. We descend through open landscapes with stunning views. The next part of the route traverses an extensive fir forest to the great Grilas meadow, full of walnut trees. On the western edge of this zone, we see Lagkadia, passing by the small Koubliza Spring and the impressive complex of Rapi Watermills. We enter Lagkadia (the village of the stone builders).
Meals included:
Lunch: Lunchbox
Dinner
Breakfast
Accommodation included:
Gueshouse in Lagkadia

Day 7: Lagkadia – Athens

Stop At: Athens, Athens Greece
Departure from Lgkadia
Meals included:
Breakfast