The enchanting mountain realm of Achaia offers plenty of options for strolls and activities all year round.
Just a breath from Athens lies a magical mountain realm with lush gorges, impressive lakes, and picturesque villages immersed in nature. The mountainous Achaiahides beauties and unique attractions that you can enjoy in any season. Below we present five experiences in Achaias naturethat will make your trip unforgettable.
The enchanting plane tree forest
Planiterowith its enchanting plane-tree forest is one of the places worth visiting if you find yourself in the area, to relax to the sounds and sights of nature. 25 km. fromKalavryta, on the road that leads to Kleitoria, youll find a unique landscape dominated by enormous plane trees (in some, the trunk diameter reaches 4 meters) and the rushing waters around the springs of the Aroanios River. Beside the springs operate trout farms, whose fish you can try in delicious recipes at the tavernas that operate in the area.
A rare creation of nature
At a distance of 17 km. from Kalavryta, near the village of Kastria, you will encounter the famed Cave of the Lakes.Beyond labyrinthine corridors, mysterious galleries, and splendid stalactites, thiscave has something that makes it unique: the lakes inside it are unusual and in fact extend across three levels. Its no coincidence that the well-known Lonely Planet guide included it in the list of 10 natural wonders you must see in Greece.
Hiking the gorge
Together with the massif of Helmos, the Vouraikos Gorge is a protected area designated as a National Park. The gorge is traversed by the Vouraikos River, from which it takes its name. You can cross it by hiking or by traveling on the legendary Odontotos -one of the most beautiful train routes in the world according to international lists. The trains move through the gorge amid luxuriant vegetation of plane trees and firs. The 23 km. route from the railway station of Diakopto to Kalavryta is filled with dreamlike images generously offered by the lush green gorge. In the middle of the Odontotos route lies Zachlorou,a small village tucked into the gorge, its red-tiled roofs peeking out among plane and walnut trees.
Cool off at the waterfalls
One of the most beautiful and unexplored villages of Kalavryta is Ano Vlasia. Here youll be impressed by the greenery everywhere and the splendid Taxiarchis Waterfalls just outside the village. These are the waterfalls of the Selinountas River, which springs from Mount Erymanthos and flows into the Corinthian Gulf. The waterfalls (in fact a double waterfall) are located at the end of the gorge, where the river seems to enter a cave.
One of the most beautiful lakes in Greece
A destination in its own right, Lake Tsivlou is perched at an elevation of 700 meters on the slopes of Helmos, about 25 km. from the coastal settlement of Akrata.This lake was formed in 1913, when a major landslide in the area blocked the bed of the Krathi River. Today, it is considered a highly significant wetland that hosts many species of flora and fauna. The lake is surrounded by dense forests and the scenery is magical in every season. In winter, the snow-covered, tree-clad slopes give an alpine aspect. In summer, many enjoy swimming in its waters. The area is ideal for a host of activities, from hiking to horseback riding, mountain biking, and even 4x4 routes. Ten kilometers away, youll also find one of the most beautiful villages of Achaia, Zarouchla.In the village youll find lovely guesthouses and tavernas to enjoy local flavors, while your gaze will be drawn to the imposing tower houses.
