Near the charming village of Potamoi, the Malousta Waterfall offers an exquisite hiking experience, blending natural beauty with a touch of adventure. Starting from the chapel of Saint Raphael, this hike promises an encounter with lovely landscapes, dense forests, and refreshing streams. Here’s a detailed account of our recent trek to this great destination.

Our adventure began with a long and exhilarating journey starting from Kapnofyto, winding our way towards the charming village of Potamoi. Along the way, we explored several other areas of mountaineering interest, including the majestic Mount Falakro, a haven for hikers and nature lovers alike.

As we neared Potamoi Village, we made a memorable stop on a bridge that offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the Nestos River. This first encounter with Nestos was nothing short of magical. The river, renowned for its meandering course and lush surroundings, is a lifeline for the region’s diverse flora and fauna. The sight of its serene waters winding through the landscape was a sight to behold, hinting at the natural wonders that awaited us further along our journey.

With the image of the Nestos River etched in our minds, we continued our drive towards Potamoi. Our destination was the quaint Saint Raphael Chapel, located at the confluence of the Despati and Melissomandra streams. This charming chapel marked the starting point of our hike to the stunning Malousta Waterfall, promising an adventure filled with nature’s beauty and unexpected surprises.

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Saint Raphael Chapel

Saint Raphael is a quaint chapel is situated where the waters of Despati and the stream of Melissomandra (Malousta) converge, creating a tranquil recreation area. The site is perfect for visitors to relax on benches under towering plane trees, enjoying the harmonious blend of forest and aquatic environments. 

Additionally, the well-organized barbeque area makes it an ideal spot for picnics and social gatherings. From time to time, various events are hosted here, adding a cultural touch to the natural allure of the place. There is also plenty of water for the visitor.

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Hiking at Malousta Waterfall

Our hike began at the chapel of Saint Raphael, located just outside Potamoi.  From the chapel, we took the forest road behind it to the right, which leads directly to the Malousta Waterfall. Initially, we decided to traverse the stream which is marked. While this route provided a more adventurous experience, it’s not one I would recommend due to the slippery and uneven terrain. For those seeking a safer and more comfortable journey, the normal trail is the way to go.

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Overcoming Obstacles on the Path to Malousta Waterfall

Our hike to Malousta Waterfall was shaping up to be an adventurous one, but little did we know just how thrilling it would become. Midway through our journey, we found ourselves face-to-face with a colossal rock, seemingly dropped right in the middle of our trail. This was a moment of decision: should we turn back or brave the challenge? Naturally, we chose the latter, ready to embrace the adventure that lay ahead.

First, we climbed a manageable boulder, finding footholds and handholds that tested our rock-climbing skills. Next, we carefully crossed the stream not once, but twice, each time stepping with precision to avoid slipping into the cool, rushing water. The path then led us through a dense thicket, where we had to push through bushes, all the while keeping a wary eye out for any serpents that might be lurking in the underbrush. It was a mere 50 meters of challenge, but it felt like an odyssey.

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Reaching Malousta Waterfall

Emerging from this gauntlet, we were rewarded with the sight of Malousta Waterfall just ten minutes later. The location was nothing short of stunning—a hidden gem nestled in the wilderness. However, to our surprise and slight disappointment, the waterfall was dry during our visit in mid-July 2024. Despite the lack of flowing water, the beauty of the surroundings was undeniable. We could only imagine the breathtaking scene that awaits those who visit in the spring, when the waterfall would be in full, magical flow.

So, while our mid-summer visit provided its own unique set of memories and challenges, it left us with a promise of returning in the spring. For those planning their hike, timing it right could unveil the full splendor of Malousta Waterfall, transforming it into a truly marvelous and magical experience.

Reaching the Malousta Waterfall was a reward in itself. Although there was not water falling, we took a moment to appreciate the natural beauty, capturing photos and soaking in the peaceful ambiance.

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Return to Saint Raphael Chapel

On our return, we opted for the normal trail, which was a much easier hike. The trail is clearly visible, fairly well maintained, and well marked, making it accessible even for less experienced hikers. The scenery along the path is simply breathtaking, with lush forests and the soothing sounds of the stream accompanying us throughout the hike.

While the hike to the Malousta Waterfall is the main highlight, the area around the chapel of Saint Raphael offers more for those interested in exploring further. Although the nearby Cave of Rivers or Cave of Despatis is not open to the public, its proximity adds a sense of mystery and intrigue to the location.

After our hike to Malousta Waterfall, we were ready soak in the serene beauty of our surroundings. Returning to the Saint Raphael Chapel, we took advantage of the icy waters of the Despati stream to refresh ourselves. The crystal-clear water, fed by mountain springs, was brisk and invigorating, instantly washing away any fatigue from our trek.

With our spirits rejuvenated, we decided to make the most of the well-organized barbeque area near the chapel. We cooked a delightful meal and enjoyed it. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we gathered around the picnic table to play some lively deck games.

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When it was time to settle in for the night, we had initially planned to sleep in our trusty Sierra Designs Flash 3 tent. However, fate had a pleasant surprise in store for us. We discovered a cozy hut nearby the Saint Raphael Chapel, offering a rustic yet comfortable shelter. Choosing the hut over our tent, we relished the opportunity to sleep on a sturdy wooden bed with the soft sounds of the forest lulling us to sleep.

The next morning, we awoke to the gentle rays of the sun filtering through the trees. As we stepped outside, we stumbled upon a delightful surprise: bushes brimming with ripe blackberries. We couldn’t resist picking a handful of these juicy gems, savoring their sweet-tart flavor as we wandered around the serene chapel grounds. The fresh blackberries made for a delicious and spontaneous breakfast, a perfect start to another day of adventure.

Our journey to Malousta Waterfall and the surrounding areas had been nothing short of magical. From the a nice hike and refreshing stream to the cozy hut and unexpected blackberry bounty, every moment was filled with wonder and joy. If you’re seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility, this hidden gem near Potamoi is an experience you won’t want to miss.

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