Following a great rafting adventure in Paranesti, we were eager for our next escapade. Our sights were set on the northern reaches of the Rodopi Mountain Range, specifically aiming for the breathtaking Saint Barbara Waterfall in Arkoudorema. 

Our hiking adventure kicked off at the charming Arkoudorema café. With our spirits high, we set out towards the quaint settlement of Dipotamia, located within the stunning valley of Arkoudorema. The anticipation of discovering this natural wonder added an extra spring to our step as we ventured into the heart of the lush, verdant forest.

The promise of the waterfall, combined with the beauty of the dense woodland, made this hike an unforgettable prelude to the spectacular sights that awaited us.

The Hike to Saint Barbara Waterfall

Our journey to Saint Barbara Waterfall begins at the charming Arkoudorema café. During our visit, the Arkoudorema Cafe was not operational and in fact the business was for renting out. As we set off, the path immediately immerses us in nature, crossing a quaint iron bridge and continuing along a well-maintained trail that stretches for about 400 meters.

The trail winds through a dense forest of oak and alder trees, their canopy providing a cool, shaded passage. The air is crisp and filled with the earthy scent of the forest. As we hike, we come across wild apple trees, their branches heavy with ripe, juicy apples. It’s a delightful surprise, and we take a moment to enjoy the sweet, fresh fruit.

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Further along the trail, we encounter patches of wild blueberries and blackberries. The berries are abundant and add a touch of sweetness to our hike. We pause to pick a few, savoring their natural, tangy flavor. These wild treats make the journey even more enjoyable and connect us with the natural bounty of the forest.

The path gradually descends, and the sound of rushing water grows louder, heightening our anticipation. The roar of the waterfall becomes our guide, leading us closer with every step. The dense vegetation opens up slightly, and we catch our first glimpse of the waterfall through the trees.

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Reaching Saint Barbara Waterfall

When we finally reach the end of the trail, the sight before us is nothing short of magical. The Saint Barbara Waterfall plunges over 15 meters between two large rocks, forming a tranquil lake about 25 meters in diameter. The water cascades down in a graceful, powerful flow, creating a soothing symphony of sounds that fills the air.

The area around the waterfall is a paradise of lush greenery. Alders and willows surround the lake, their branches dipping into the clear water. Salamanders bask in the sunlight on the large river stones, while dragonflies flit about, their iridescent wings catching the light. Depending on the season, you might also spot small trout and crabs in the water, and occasionally, a water snake gliding gracefully through the lake.

The local Forestry Department has thoughtfully provided wooden benches, offering a perfect spot to rest and take in the scenery. The opposite bank of the lake narrows, and the water flows out, reforming the stream of Barvara, which soon merges with Arkoudorema.

For those seeking a different perspective, a brief detour from the main path leads to a vantage point above the waterfall. From this height, the view is even more mesmerizing. You can see the water cascading down the mountain, merging with the stream below, and eventually joining Arkoudorema and Nestos. The forest stretches out in every direction, embracing the landscape in a lush green blanket.

The Saint Barbara Waterfall in Arkoudorema offers an enchanting escape into nature. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a family looking for a fun day out, this destination has something for everyone. The combination of stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and well-maintained facilities ensures a memorable experience. So next time you’re in the Paranesti region, make sure to visit this trail and immerse yourself in the magical surroundings of the Saint Barbara Waterfall.

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Details of the hike:

• Location: Dipotama (Rodopi Mountain Range)
• Trail Signs: Signed path
• Maximum Elevation: 280 m.
• Minimum Elevation: 391 m
• Total Distance: 1 km
• Hiking time: 20 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• When to Hike: Any time of the year (Best option during April – June)

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