Hiking to Voulgara Peak (1,654 m) from Zaharaki (Tarzan) – Agrafa Mountains, Greece

On By Olympus MountaineeringIn Hiking & Trekking

Deep within the rugged mountains of Agrafa, Voulgara Peak (1,654 m) is one of those summits that rarely appears on the typical hiking lists, yet leaves a lasting impression on everyone who visits. Unlike many popular Greek mountain peaks, Voulgara offers something increasingly difficult to find: solitude, untouched forests, and a genuine feeling of wilderness.

The hike begins at the mountain pass known as Zaharaki, better known locally as Tarzan, named after Georgios Bourgos, a legendary nature lover who spent much of his life living among these forests. The area is home to the small Agii Anargyroi Chapel, picnic facilities, and the famous Z1 hiking trail that climbs steadily toward the summit. 

Throughout the hike, the landscape changes continuously. Dense fir forests dominate the first half of the route, where ferns cover the forest floor and sunlight filters gently through centuries old trees. Higher up, the forest gradually gives way to open alpine meadows before the final grassy climb leads to the summit ridge.

Standing on top of Voulgara Peak, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across the Agrafa Mountains, Tymfristos Mountain (Velouchi), Panetoliko Mountain and even the distant Pindus peaks, and endless green ridges stretching toward the horizon.

Although the route is not technically difficult, it offers everything that makes hiking in Agrafa special: pristine nature, well marked trails, quiet forests, spectacular scenery, and the feeling of discovering one of Greece’s last truly wild mountain regions.

St. Anargyroi Chapel at Zaharaki (Tarzan), the starting point for the hike to Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
The peaceful St. Anargyroi Chapel marks the beginning of the hiking route to Voulgara Peak from Zaharaki (Tarzan).

How to Reach Zaharaki Pass from Athens

Reaching Zaharaki is an adventure in itself. Although the starting point feels wonderfully remote, the drive from Athens is straightforward and follows good quality roads for most of the journey.

From Athens, take the A1 Motorway (E75) toward Lamia. Exit toward Smokovo.

The final mountain road is paved and generally in good condition, although it becomes narrower and more winding during the last kilometres.

At Zaharaki you’ll find:

  • Agii Anargyroi Chapel
  • Picnic tables and benches
  • Small recreation area
  • Plenty of parking space
  • The official Z1 trailhead

There is no drinking water available on the hiking trail itself, so make sure you carry enough water before starting.

Hiking to Voulgara Peak

Section 1: Agii Anargyroi (Zaharaki / Tarzan) → Open Meadows

The hike begins beside the peaceful Agii Anargyroi Chapel, surrounded by impressive fir trees that immediately set the tone for the day ahead.

Just next to the chapel, the official Z1 trail marker points hikers into the forest. Navigation is straightforward throughout this section of the route, with bright yellow Z1 signs appearing frequently on trees and junctions.

For the first several kilometres, the trail follows a combination of forest paths and old forestry roads beneath an almost continuous canopy of fir trees. The forest here is magnificent.

Large ferns blanket the ground, fallen logs slowly return to nature, and mature fir trees create one of the finest mountain forests you’ll encounter in Central Greece.

The terrain remains pleasantly moderate for most of this section. There are no exposed areas, making it an ideal hike even during warmer summer days. The shade provided by the forest keeps temperatures surprisingly comfortable.

Along the way you’ll pass:

  • numerous Z1 trail markers
  • old forest clearings
  • occasional viewpoints through the trees
  • impressive dead standing firs that highlight the natural life cycle of the forest

After approximately one hour, the dense woodland slowly begins to thin out. Sunlight becomes stronger, vegetation changes, and the trail suddenly emerges into beautiful alpine meadows.

This transition is perhaps one of the most enjoyable moments of the hike. After walking through cool forests for most of the morning, you’re greeted by wide open landscapes and your first uninterrupted views toward Voulgara Peak.

Z1 hiking trail sign at Zaharaki (Tarzan) leading to Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
The Z1 trail begins beside St. Anargyroi Chapel and guides hikers through the beautiful forests of Agrafa.
Picnic and recreation area at Zaharaki (Tarzan) before hiking to Voulgara Peak.
The spacious recreation area at Zaharaki is ideal for relaxing before or after the hike.
Z1 hiking trail marker attached to a fir tree on the route to Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
The official Z1 trail markers make navigation easy throughout the hike.
Forest hiking trail through lush ferns on the ascent to Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
The trail winds through beautiful fern covered forest on the way to Voulgara Peak.
Hikers walking along the Z1 trail through the fir forest toward Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
The well defined forest trail offers a pleasant and scenic approach to Voulgara Peak.
Forest hiking trail through dense fir trees on the Z1 route to Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
The Z1 trail continues through peaceful fir forests on the ascent to Voulgara Peak.
Young hiker walking through the fir forest on the Z1 trail to Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
Young hiker walking through the fir forest on the Z1 trail to Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
Well marked forest path through fir woodland on the hike to Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
The clearly defined trail makes navigation easy throughout the forest.
Mountain meadow surrounded by fir forest along the hiking route to Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
An open mountain meadow offers a welcome break from the dense forest.
Panoramic view of Voulgara Peak from a mountain meadow in the Agrafa Mountains.
Voulgara Peak rises above the surrounding forests as the trail gradually approaches the summit.
Open grassland with panoramic views toward Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
Mountain meadows offer spectacular views across the forests surrounding Voulgara Peak.

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Section 2: Open Meadows → Voulgara Peak

Once leaving the forest behind, the character of the hike changes completely. The trail now crosses rolling alpine meadows covered with dry grasses and scattered fir trees. From here onward, Voulgara Peak remains constantly visible, making it easier to keep your overall direction. This section is undoubtedly the most scenic part of the entire hike.

However, as you leave the dense forest, the trail markings gradually become less frequent and, in some places, almost disappear altogether. While the route generally follows the open ridgeline, the exact path can become difficult to identify, especially where multiple faint animal tracks cross the meadows.

For this reason, hikers should have good route finding skills and a solid sense of orientation, or preferably follow a GPS track using a navigation device or smartphone. Without GPS assistance, staying on the intended route can become surprisingly challenging.

The panoramic views expand with every step. Looking behind, endless waves of fir forests blanket the surrounding mountains, while ahead the rounded summit rises gently above the landscape. The final ascent is short but noticeably steeper than the rest of the route, requiring one last push before reaching the summit of Voulgara Peak.

After climbing the grassy slope, you reach the summit ridge and finally the summit of Voulgara Peak (1,654 m).

Rustic woodland shelter built by local shephard near the hiking trail to Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
A simple handmade shelter reflects local shephards’ deep connection with the forests of Agrafa.
Wide forest trail surrounded by fir trees on the hike to Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
The trail alternates between shaded woodland and open mountain clearings.
Hiker walking through lush fir forest toward Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
Dense fir forests accompany hikers for much of the journey to Voulgara Peak.
View of Voulgara Peak through the fir forest along the hiking trail in Agrafa.
Voulgara Peak occasionally appears through the trees before the final ascent.
Young hiker following the Z1 trail through the fir forest toward Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
The Z1 trail is clearly marked, making the ascent to Voulgara Peak easy to follow.
Narrow forest path surrounded by lush ferns on the hike to Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
Dense vegetation and lush ferns line the quieter sections of the Z1 hiking trail.
Weathered dead fir tree standing among the forests of Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
Ancient trees and natural woodland scenery add character to the hike through Agrafa.
Official Z1 hiking trail marker attached to a fir tree on the route to Voulgara Peak.
The official Z1 trail markers ensure hikers remain on the correct route.
Panoramic mountain view from the slopes of Voulgara Peak overlooking the forests of Agrafa.
Expansive mountain views towards Vathylakos village.
Dense fir forest along the hiking route to Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
The peaceful fir forest creates a quiet and refreshing hiking environment.

Discover More adventures in Agrafa Mountains

Forest trail winding through fir trees on the ascent to Voulgara Peak in Agrafa.
The narrow mountain trail leads hikers deeper into the pristine forests of Agrafa.
Young hiker crossing fallen trees along the Z1 trail to Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
Small natural obstacles add a sense of adventure to the hike through the forest.
Hiker ascending a steep forest trail toward Voulgara Peak through the fir forests of Agrafa.
The trail gradually becomes steeper as it approaches the higher slopes of Voulgara Peak.
Young hiker climbing the final grassy slope to Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
The final ascent to Voulgara Peak leaves the forest behind and crosses open alpine terrain.
Hiker approaching the summit ridge of Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
The summit of Voulgara Peak comes into view during the final few minutes of the ascent.
Hiker reaching the summit ridge of Voulgara Peak at 1,654 meters in Agrafa.
The final steps to the summit reward hikers with breathtaking panoramic views.

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Arriving at Voulgara Peak 1.654

After the final climb, you’ll arrive at the summit of Voulgara Peak (1,654 m), marked by a concrete trig point and the familiar EOS Karditsa hikers’ mailbox containing the summit logbook. Despite its relatively modest elevation, the summit offers magnificent 360 degree views across the Agrafa Mountains, with endless forested ridges, remote valleys, and distant peaks stretching toward the horizon. The peaceful atmosphere and complete absence of crowds make it the perfect place to rest, enjoy a meal, sign the summit register, and take in one of the most rewarding panoramas in Central Greece.

The summit features:

  • concrete trig point
  • hikers’ logbook
  • outstanding 360 degree panoramic views

On a clear day you can admire:

  • numerous Agrafa peaks
  • distant Pindus mountain ranges
  • endless fir forests
  • remote mountain villages hidden deep within the valleys
  • the rolling ridgelines that make Agrafa one of Greece’s wildest mountain regions

The summit is an ideal place for a longer break.

With almost no crowds and very little noise beyond the wind, it perfectly captures what hiking in Agrafa is all about.

Summit marker on Voulgara Peak at 1,654 meters in the Agrafa Mountains.
The summit of Voulgara Peak stands at 1,654 meters above sea level.
Summit trig point of Voulgara Peak with EOSX mailbox in the Agrafa Mountains.
The summit mailbox contains the traditional hikers’ logbook for visitors to Voulgara Peak.
Summit logbook of Voulgara Peak at 1,654 meters in the Agrafa Mountains.
Visitors can sign the summit logbook after reaching the top of Voulgara Peak.
Panoramic mountain view from the summit of Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains.
Endless mountain ridges stretch across the horizon from the summit of Voulgara Peak.
View from Voulgara Peak toward the surrounding mountain ridges of the Agrafa Mountains.
The summit reveals uninterrupted views across the wild landscapes of Agrafa.
Panoramic view from Voulgara Peak across the forested mountains and valleys of Agrafa.
From the summit, endless mountain ranges dominate the landscape in every direction. We can see the peaks, Simio, Anemos, Korakas.
From the summit, endless mountain ranges dominate the landscape in every direction. We can see the peaks, Simio, Anemos, Korakas.
Hiker enjoying panoramic views from Voulgara Peak in the Agrafa Mountains, Greece.
Taking a well deserved break while admiring the breathtaking views from the summit of Voulgara Peak.

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Returning from Voulgara Peak

For most hikers, the return journey follows the same Z1 trail back to Zaharaki.

Retracing your steps allows you to enjoy the landscape from a completely different perspective. The open meadows gradually disappear behind you as you descend back into the cool fir forest, where the shade once again provides welcome relief during the warmer hours of the day.

Voulgara Peak may not be the highest summit in the region, but it is certainly one of its most rewarding. Combining peaceful forests, excellent trail marking, open alpine meadows, and panoramic summit views, this hike offers everything that makes the Agrafa Mountains one of Greece’s finest destinations for nature lovers and mountain hikers.

Hikers descending from Voulgara Peak across the alpine meadows of the Agrafa Mountains.
The descent from Voulgara Peak follows scenic alpine meadows overlooking the mountains of Agrafa.

About Tarzan’s Hut (Giorgos Bourgos)

Before setting off on the hike, it’s worth taking a moment to visit Tarzan’s Hut (Καλύβα του Ταρζάν), located at Zaharaki Pass. Although simple in appearance, this small mountain hut has become one of the most legendary landmarks in Greek motorsport. It gave its name to the famous Tarzan Special Stage of the Acropolis Rally, considered one of the toughest and most demanding rally stages ever included in the World Rally Championship.

The hut belonged to Giorgos Bourgos, affectionately known as “Tarzan“, a former police officer from Fourna who left Athens and returned to his beloved mountains, where he spent the final 52 years of his life. His warm hospitality, unique personality, and philosophical outlook made him a beloved figure among rally drivers and spectators from around the world.

Even today, Tarzan’s legacy lives on, and the area remains a place of pilgrimage for both hiking enthusiasts and motorsport fans. Starting your hike from this historic location adds a unique cultural and historical dimension to an already beautiful mountain adventure.

Mural of Georgios Bourgos, known as Tarzan, at Zaharaki in the Agrafa Mountains.
A colorful mural honors Georgios Bourgos, affectionately known as Tarzan, whose legacy lives on in Zaharaki.
Sign of the House of the Nature Lover dedicated to Georgios Bourgos at Zaharaki (Tarzan).
The House of the Nature Lover celebrates the life and legacy of Tarzan in the forests of Agrafa.

About the Agrafa Mountains

The Agrafa Mountains are one of the most remote and lesser-known parts of mainland Greece. Stretching across the regions of Karditsa and Evrytania, Agrafa is synonymous with rugged peaks, deep gorges, and traditional stone villages. Historically, the area remained “unwritten” (agrafa) on Ottoman tax records, which gave the mountains their name and a legacy of independence.

For hikers and nature lovers, Agrafa is a paradise waiting to be explored. From challenging ascents to peaks over 2,000 meters, to tranquil lakes and hidden waterfalls like Anthochori, the area offers countless opportunities for outdoor adventure. At the same time, its villages retain a strong cultural identity, with stone houses, historic churches, and a warm hospitality that reflects the region’s proud heritage.

Details of the hike

  • Location: Voulgara Peak (Agrafa Mountain)
  • Trail Signs: Yes (partially)
  • Water: No
  • Maximum Elevation: 1.654 m.
  • Minimum Elevation: 1.176 m
  • Total Distance: 15 km
  • Hiking time: 6.5 hours
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • When to Hike: All year round

A Remarkable Effort by EOS Karditsas

No hiking experience in the Eastern Agrafa would be complete without acknowledging the outstanding work of the Karditsa Mountaineering Club (EOS Karditsas). Over the years, the club has dedicated countless hours to opening, restoring, marking, and maintaining trails throughout one of Greece’s most remote and least visited mountain regions. Thanks to the commitment and voluntary efforts of its members, many forgotten paths have once again become accessible, allowing hikers to safely explore the unique landscapes of the Eastern Agrafa.

The Z1 trail to Voulgara Peak is an excellent example of this dedication. Throughout the forested section of the route, the trail is exceptionally well maintained and clearly marked, making navigation straightforward and allowing visitors to fully appreciate the area’s remarkable natural beauty. Beyond trail maintenance, EOS Karditsas has played a significant role in promoting responsible mountain tourism, protecting the region’s natural heritage, and encouraging more people to discover the hidden treasures of Agrafa.

Their work deserves the appreciation of every hiker who enjoys these mountains. Without the passion, knowledge, and continuous volunteer efforts of organizations like EOS Karditsas, many of these beautiful trails would gradually disappear beneath the forest, and one of Greece’s most authentic mountain landscapes would remain largely inaccessible.

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.

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.

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