Karpenisi, the picturesque villages and everything will inspire you to set off on a mountain escape to the heart of Central Greece.
Evrytania has been dubbed the «Switzerland of Greece» and not by chance. Mountains full of firs, gorges, waterfalls, rushing rivers and small picture-perfect villages compose a magical world in the heart of Central Greece. Every corner of this nature-blessed land awakens the desire for exploration and adventure.
From Karpenisi and the ski center on Velouchi to the Karpenisiotis valley, Prousos and Lake Kremaston, Evrytania gives you many reasons to get to know it, to love it and to visit again and again.
Strolls in Karpenisi
Karpenisi, the capital of Evrytania, is built on the southern slopes of Velouchi, at an elevation of 960 meters. It is a small mountain town surrounded by imposing mountains and lush nature. The stroll begins at central MarkosBotsaris Square with its stone fountains, the Church of the Holy Trinity and the old Town Hall building. Plenty of tavernas, spots for coffee and drinks and shops with traditionalproducts complete the scene. Climb the hill of Agios Dimitrios to enjoy the best panoramic view of Karpenisi. At a distance of 2 km. from the town, you will find the location of Kefalovryso, an idyllic place with plane trees and running waters where you can relax.
Picturesque villages
Among the best-known villages of the area, Mikro and Megalo Chorio will charm you with their stone-built squares, paths and beautiful guesthouses. Be sure to also stop by the historic village of Koryschades. In the square of the traditional settlementyou will see the Church of Agios Athanasios (1865) and the primary school of 1901, which houses the small yet interesting Museum of the National Resistance. Klafsi, Voutyro, Nostimo and Gavros are also worth a stroll.
One of the loveliest jewels of Evrytania, the village of Fidakiaspreads its stone houses at an elevation of 960 m.and stands out for the wonderful view it offers over Lake Kremaston.ΟAgios Nikolaos, 9 km from Karpenisi, is a small mountain paradise amid firs and chestnut trees. An alternative route in the southeast of the prefecture will bring you to Krikello with its lovely plane-tree-shaded square and to the historic village of Domnista.
The Monastery of Prousos
A wonderful routefrom Karpenisi to Prousos, in the valley formed by the Karpenisiotis River, will lead you to the historic Monastery of Prousos, hewn into asheer rock in a majestic landscape, between Mounts Chelidona, Kaliakouda and the Panaitoliko mountain range. According to tradition the name of the monastery is owed to the miraculous icon of Panagia Prousiotissa, which comes from Bursa in Asia Minor and is thought to be the work of the Evangelist Luke. The complex operates a guesthouse and a museum with precious relics, icons, and books, as well as part of Karaiskakis weaponry.
Adventures in the snow
On the slopes ofTymphristos, 12 km. from the town of Karpenisi and at an elevation of1.840 m., lies one of the oldest ski centers in Greece. The Velouchi Ski Center features runs to match every level of difficulty or experience. There is a chalet with rentals and sales of ski equipment and a bar with views of the pistes. There is also the option of staying at the mountain refuge.
Where it... Always Rains
Between Mounts Kaliakouda and Platanaki, at the narrowest point of the Krikellopotamos, lies a magical place with pools, waterfalls, steep rocks and wild vegetation. The Panta Vrechei Gorge, about 100 meters long, will leave you with your mouth open. It is astriking landscape that one does not easily encounter. The safest time to cross it is, of course, summer (from June to the end of September), always with the help of experienced guides.
Lake Kremaston
At a distance of 55 km. west of Karpenisi, you will encounter the largest artificial lake in Greece. Lake Kremaston was created in 1965, when the waters of the Achelous, Agrafiotis and Tavropos rivers were joined. The lake lies between the prefectures of Aetoloakarnania and Evrytania which are connected via the Episkopi Bridge. The setting, featuring tranquil blue-green waters, small islets and the single-arched Manolis bridgewill enchant you. The Tsagkaralona spot, near the village of Fidakia, offers wonderful views over Lake Kremaston and the bridge.
