The last few months I was mostly focused on sport and trad climbing activities, nevertheless, one of my favourite outdoor activities is hiking, especially when I have the chance to hike together with great company. In fact, on this trip, we had a goal to explore some of the nicest -family friendly- hikes in the area of Evrytania. Having visited the Mikro Panta Vrechi, we wanted to explore more and we visited a lovely short trail, that I have also hiked in the past, the trail that leads to the Black Cave (Mavri Spilia).
The trail starts from the bridge which is located near the traditional butcher shop of Stremmenou. Right at the beginning of the trail, there is a fountain with plenty of fresh water. In fact, prior of hitting the trail, we filled up our flasks with fresh water and upon that we started to hike this pleasant path. The trail is very obvious, well signed and as already mentioned is family friendly and easy for beginners too.
Support the journey — buy me a coffee
I share these articles and the climbing guidebooks because I love the outdoors, and they’ll always be free. If they’ve helped you, help me keep them coming. Click the button to support my work.
See other activities in the region of Evrytania here:
- Winter hike Mt. Panaitoliko (Panetoliko)
- Winter Ascent Mount Tymfristos
- Winter Ascent Mount Kaliakouda
- Hiking in Mikro Panta Vrechi
The Waterfall
About halfway towards the Black Cave, we meet a beautiful waterfall. At that point, we had a short stop in order to enjoy the beautiful view and to have a quick dive to the cool water by the small lake that is formed by the waterfall.
Explore all outdoor activities in a convenient list view here
Evrytania is almost entirely formed of mountains, including the Tymfristos and the Panaitoliko in the south. Its rivers include the Acheloos in the west, Agrafiotis to the east, and Megdova in the east flowing down to the Ionian Sea. It is one of the least populated regional units in Greece. The area borders Aetolia-Acarnania to the west, southwest and south (west over the Acheloos river), Karditsa regional unit to the north, and Phthiotis to the east. Evrytania also features a famous skiing resort located near Karpenisi on the Tymfristos mountain.
Subscribe & Stay Informed
Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email
About Black Cave (Mavri Spilia)
After making your way over bridges and brooks, you reach the Black Cave. Not that you can see it coming. Hidden from view until you are upon it, you immediately understand why it served as a refuge during Greece’s occupations. Much of the stone wall that once sealed the cave entrance remains intact. But its full history goes way back, with the ancient Evritanians said to have created an oracle here in honour of Odysseus (worshipping his capacity for combatting life’s obstacles) and another legend saying that it was used as a refuge by the tragic Oedipus.
Check out more FREE Guidebooks
Download now for free! Explore breathtaking landscapes and conquer thrilling heights with our collection of guidebooks and topos.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to elevate your outdoor adventures. Click, download, and let the exploration begin!
Via Ferrata Black Cave Gorge
Crossing the Via Ferrata you will meet one of the most beautiful landscapes of Evrytania. Via Ferrata is a climbing route that uses metal cables, stairs or ladders, fixed to the rock. Unique routes made for young and old.
Through a path full of fir trees, picturesque wooden bridges and small waterfalls that form natural ponds in many places on the left and right of the path, suitable for swimming, we reach the imposing Black Cave. Somewhere there we leave the path and follow the Via Ferrata, where we will cross the gorge going up where needed to the rocks with the help of metal stairs.
Support the journey — buy me a coffee
I share these articles and the climbing guidebooks because I love the outdoors, and they’ll always be free. If they’ve helped you, help me keep them coming. Click the button to support my work.
Details of the Hike:
- Location: Black Cave (Mavri Spilia) Proussos
- Trail Signs: Signed path
- Maximum Elevation: 758 m.
- Minimum Elevation: 568 m
- Total Distance: 4,2 km
- Hiking time: 30 minutes (with easy pace – including the breaks)
- Difficulty: Easy
- When to Hike: All year
Before you leave this blog check out the following map
Below: This map marks all the mountaineering adventures that have been featured on Olympus Mountaineering so far, including several Sport climbing crags – Select full screen to expand, zoom in for more detail, or click on a marker for a link to the post.
Olympus Mountaineering 
Thanks for the post ☺️ I’m really enjoying the photos from your hiking posts, it looks amazing through the shaded forest with all the fresh water! The cave is super interesting too
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for your kind comment, and really nice to know you like the photos of such simple hikes.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Definitely! It gives a really nice idea of the area
LikeLiked by 1 person
Another amazing hidden gem. So much to do, and all off the beaten path.
I love the via ferrata. It’s rare to have one in Canada, and most are purpose-built – designed to do one route, instead of being part of an overall trail or route.
Love the cave and the history.
Excellent post!
Alisen
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Alisen, for your wonderful comment! I’m thrilled to hear that you found the hidden gem I mentioned in the post to be amazing. It’s always exciting to discover off-the-beaten-path destinations that offer unique experiences.
Via ferratas are indeed special, and it’s great to know that you have an appreciation for them.
Exploring caves and delving into their history can be a fascinating journey. They often hold secrets from the past and offer a glimpse into a different time. I’m glad you enjoyed that aspect of the post.
Thank you for your kind words about the post overall. I appreciate your support and encouragement. If you have any more questions or if there’s anything else I can assist you with, please feel free to let me know.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You have SO much history in your mountains. Here, a cave is just a cave. For you, a cave is a window into an amazing and lush past. Thanks for sharing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you for your comment!
You’re absolutely right, the mountains of Greece are not only breathtaking in their natural beauty but also steeped in history and mythology. They serve as a gateway to a rich and fascinating past. For instance, Mount Olympus, known as the home of the gods in Greek mythology, is not only a majestic peak but also carries immense cultural significance.
Another example is Mount Parnassus, which is associated with the ancient Oracle of Delphi. It was believed that the Oracle could communicate with the gods and provide prophetic guidance. The mountain’s slopes were considered sacred, and pilgrims would undertake arduous journeys to seek divine wisdom.
Furthermore, Mount Athos, also known as the Holy Mountain, is renowned for its historic monastic community. For centuries, it has been a place of spiritual retreat and pilgrimage, housing numerous Orthodox monasteries that have preserved their traditions and heritage.
These are just a few examples among many. Each mountain in Greece has its own captivating stories and connections to ancient times. Exploring their majestic landscapes not only offers awe-inspiring natural experiences but also provides an opportunity to immerse oneself in the remarkable history and mythology that surrounds them. I’m glad to share this insight with you, and I hope it inspires you to discover the wonders of Greece’s mountainous regions.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much. Your pride and joy of your mountains and history is wonderful to see. Thank YOU for sharing that with me.
I was lucky enough to visit both Mount Olympus and the site of Delphi when I was in Greece … too long ago to remember. I wasn’t able to climb any of the mountains back then, but the cultural and historical significance was awe-inspiring. Coming from a new country like Canada with not much permanent history from our First Nations, seeing the centuries of civilization in Greece was truly fascinating.
LikeLiked by 1 person