Hiking and Swimming in Acheloos river – Tzoumerka (Athamanika) Mountains (family friendly)

When people think of summer in Greece, pristine beaches on the Aegean or Ionian Seas often come to mind. However, tucked away in the heart of the Greek mainland lies a hidden gem – the Acheloos River. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks, the Acheloos Valley boasts its own stunning, sandy beaches that rival those of any exotic destination. In this blog post, we will delve into the beauty and allure of swimming in Acheloos River, exploring the unique natural landscape and activities it offers.

The journey to Acheloos River begins with a mesmerizing drive through the Athamanika mountains. As you make your way from Arta to Trikala, following the signs to Glystra near Terpna, you’ll encounter the hydroelectricity plant dam. Here lies one of the beautiful beaches of Acheloos, waiting to be discovered.

View of Acheloos beach as seen from the Parking Spot

Hiking to Acheloos River and Beach

Accessing the Acheloos River and its beach in the Acheloos Valley entails a brief and straightforward downhill hike. The trail commences on the right side of the designated parking area, where a slightly faded sign indicates the path’s starting point, likely due to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Notably, the trail is well-suited for families with young children, and to accommodate hikers during the initial steepest segment, a fixed rope is in place, offering additional assistance if needed.

The hike to reach the river typically takes approximately 5 to 10 minutes, with the duration subject to individual experience and pace. Throughout the descent, the vistas from the top are nothing short of breathtaking, providing a remarkable scenic experience.

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Trail sign
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Towards the trail that descends to the river

 

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Hiking downhill

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View of Acheloos River

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Suspended bridge

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Splendid view

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Swimming in Acheloos River and relaxing at the Beach

Acheloos Valley, lies an enchanting haven where the serenity of nature embraces those seeking solace and rejuvenation. My recent experience of swimming and relaxing in the pristine waters of Acheloos River left an indelible mark on my heart and soul.

Upon arriving at the riverbank, you will be greeted by a sight that seemed almost surreal. The crystal-clear waters of Acheloos mirrored the towering mountains surrounding the valley, creating a breathtaking panorama. The rhythmic sound of the flowing river and the cool breeze caressed my senses, offering an immediate sense of relaxation and escape from the outside world.


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As I dipped my toes into the refreshing river, any lingering worries or stress seemed to melt away. The water was inviting, its temperature ideal for a soothing swim. With each stroke, I felt connected to the rhythm of nature, harmonizing with the gentle flow of Acheloos. Swimming in its embrace was a meditative experience, allowing me to be present in the moment and appreciate the simple joys of life.

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Almost at the river

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Cooling down in the cold river water

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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.

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