While most people flock to the shimmering coastlines and picturesque islands of Greece during the scorching summer months, I have a well-kept secret that I’m eager to share with you – Athamanika (Tzoumerka) Mountains, or as some call it, the hidden jewel of mainland Greece.

Located away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy destinations, Athamanika (Tzoumerka) Mountains promises a refreshing escape into nature’s lap. As the temperatures soar, I find solace in the cool embrace of these magnificent mountains, where lush forests and awe-inspiring peaks beckon hikers seeking tranquility.

My go-to spot in this wonderland is the Pramanta Mountain Refuge, strategically located just a few kilometers away from the charming village of Pramanta and tucked beneath the majestic Strogoula peak.

The beauty of this location lies in its perfect blend of wilderness and convenience. For those who crave a touch of adventure, you have the option to set up your tent amidst the enchanting forest, granting you an intimate connection with nature like never before. Imagine waking up to the melodious chirping of birds and being greeted by the sun’s golden rays dancing through the leaves – an experience that truly rejuvenates the soul.

However, if you prefer a touch of comfort and the amenities of a traditional mountain refuge, Pramanta Mountain Refuge has you covered. The refuge provides all the essential comforts while allowing you to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty that surrounds it.

And let’s not forget the view – oh, the view! Strogoula, standing tall and proud, offers an awe-inspiring panorama that will leave you breathless. Whether you’re an avid photographer seeking the perfect shot or simply a lover of Mother Nature’s wonders, the sight from Pramanta Mountain Refuge will etch itself in your heart forever.

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See more hiking/mountaineering routes around this area:

• Hiking in Tzoumerka (Athamanika) – Pramanta Refuge – Kefalovriso Waterfall – Melissourgoi Refuge – Pramanta Refuge (family friendly)
• Winter Mountaineering Climb in Strogoula – Tzoumerka (Athamanika)
• Hiking in Tzoumerka (Athamanika) – Katarraktis Waterfalls – Katarraktis Refuge – Faneromeni
• Winter Climb in Strogoula via Agrofylakas Couloir
• Hiking in Tzoumerka – Skala Stamati – Katafidi
• Hiking in Kefalovriso Waterfalls
• Syrrako – Kallarites
• Hiking in Tzoumerka (Athamanika) Theodoriana – Marks Stream – Rema Marks – (family friendly)
• Souda Twin Waterfalls – Theodoriana – Hiking in Tzoumerka (family friendly)

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The Athamanika (Tzoumerka) Mountains offer an array of outdoor activities to suit every taste. From hiking through pristine trails that wind their way through ancient forests to rock climbing for the daring souls, this picturesque paradise has it all. For those craving a dose of history, the region boasts numerous historical sites and traditional villages, allowing you to delve into the rich tapestry of Greek culture.

So, this summer, I invite you to break free from the usual beach-bound routine and embrace the allure of Tzoumerka Mountains. Unplug from the world, let the stress of everyday life melt away, and bask in the raw beauty that this hidden gem has to offer. Create memories that will forever be etched in your heart and soul, as you embark on an unforgettable journey through one of Greece’s best-kept secrets.

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Melissourgoi – Kryoneri Waterfall

In this post I invite you to embark on a memorable hiking journey from the picturesque Melissourgoi Village to the captivating Kryoneri Waterfall and back. This family-friendly expedition promises to be a delightful experience, as we explore the rich history, immerse ourselves in the breathtaking landscapes, and witness the awe-inspiring power of nature. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your backpacks, and let’s delve into this enchanting hike!

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A Brief Overview of Melissourgoi Village

Located in the heart of lush greenery and rolling hills, Melissourgoi village is a hidden gem in the countryside. With a history dating back centuries, this quaint settlement exudes a timeless charm. The village has preserved its traditional character, offering a glimpse into the rural life of the past. Surrounded by olive groves and fragrant vineyards, the air here carries the sweet scent of wildflowers, making it an ideal starting point for our adventure.

Before we begin our hike, let’s take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of this region. Melissourgoi village traces its roots to ancient times, and it is said that the area was once inhabited by the Pelasgians, an ancient Greek tribe. Later, during the Byzantine period, the village gained prominence for its strategic location on the trade routes between major cities.

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The Trail to Kryoneri Waterfall – Section 1 – Reaching the River

The trail towards Kryoneri waterfall begins gently from the centre of Melissourgoi village, meandering through the countryside, presenting us with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape. As we stroll along, we’ll encounter the warm smiles of friendly locals, ever ready to share stories of their village’s history and folklore.

Before setting off on our adventure, we took a moment to replenish our flasks with the pure, icy-cold water from the village’s main square. Once our water supplies were secured, we were all set to begin our journey. The initial section of the trail is well-marked and suitable for families, gently descending towards the riverbank. As we descended, we were also treated to a delightful view of Koferitas’ bridge. Upon reaching the river, we had to take off our shoes to safely cross to the other side, continuing our hike with excitement.

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The Trail to Kryoneri Waterfall – Section 2 – Hiking Through Rich Vegetation and Chapels

Upon crossing the river, the trail leads us gently uphill, and although it has fewer trail signs, it remains quite clear. However, upon reaching the area with two chapels, we encounter a dense vegetation that practically obscures the path, making it less obvious. Therefore, when you arrive at the first chapel, Moni Panagias, you must hike very close to it and pass it from the right side. This part of the trail is heavily vegetated, and as I was accompanied by a child, I couldn’t help but feel concerned about the potential presence of snakes since visibility of where we stepped was limited.

After successfully passing the first chapel, a few meters higher on the trail, we encountered a second chapel, Agia Paraskevi. From this point onwards, the trail regained its clarity and became free of vegetation. As we continued, we were rewarded with stunning views of Melissourgoi village and the majestic Athamanika (Tzoumerka) Mountains, adding to the allure of the hike.

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The Trail to Kryoneri Waterfall – Section 3 – Reaching the Majestic Kryoneri Waterfall

Approaching our destination, the sound of cascading water grew louder, heightening our anticipation. Behold – the magnificent Kryoneri Waterfall, an awe-inspiring natural wonder standing tall at approximately 20 meters (65 feet) high. The sight of the crystal-clear water gracefully plunging into the turquoise pool below left us mesmerised. We took a moment to relish the serenity and power of nature and enjoy the beautiful surroundings while the gentle water droplets refreshed our bodies, making the experience even more enchanting.

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The Trail to Kryoneri Waterfall – Section 4 – Return to Melissourgoi village

After a well-deserved and enjoyable break at the magnificent Kryoneri waterfall, we began our return journey back to Melissourgoi village. The initial part of the trail retraced our steps from the waterfall, but upon reaching the coordinates ( 39°30’39.66″N 21° 9’15.76″E ), instead of turning left, we continued straight ahead, following a different path back to the village. This route allowed us to explore more of the area’s natural beauty, ensuring a truly rewarding experience.

The return section of the trail proved to be relatively easy, mostly featuring a gentle downhill slope until we reached the river bank once again. Just as before, we had to remove our shoes to safely cross the river. Afterward, we ventured through the last segment of the hike, characterized by dense vegetation. During this portion of the journey, we encountered a non-poisonous snake, which, although a bit startled by our presence, posed no threat.

Our remarkable hike eventually culminated in the charming village of Melissourgoi. Just as we had started our adventure by savoring icy-cold water at the village’s main square, we concluded our trek by refreshing ourselves, celebrating the success of such a wonderful hiking experience.

 

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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.

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Details of the Hike:

• Location: Athamanika (Tzoumerka) Mountains
• Starting Point: Melissourgoi Village
• Point of Interest: Kryoneri Waterfall
• Ending Point: Melissourgoi Village
• Trail Signs: Partly signed path
• Minimum Elevation: 760 m
• Maximum Elevation: 955 m.
• Total Distance: 2.64 km
• Difficulty: Easy
• When to Hike: All year round
• Water Features: One

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Explore all outdoor activities in a convenient list view here

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