Trip to mountainous Nafpaktia
Seven mountains, countless forested peaks and a rough terrain define mountainous Nafpaktia, a 550-square- kilometre area that extends north of beautiful Nafpaktos town.
Central Greece, known as Roumeli, is part of the Greek mainland that has been inhabited since antiquity. There are forested mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, rich fauna and flora and remarkable archaeological sites. Visit the archaeological site of Delphi and the Oracle of Apollo, picturesque seaside towns of Galaxidi and Itea, as well as beautiful Nafpaktos of great historical importance. The lagoon of Messolonghi, the largest Greek wetland, is a natural paradise that includes islets, dunes, forested banks and a rich flora and fauna that provide salt and fish to the locals. But the most precious gift of nature here is bottarga (Greek avgotaracho), one of the few seafood products with a PDO award, a delicacy coming from the eggs of the female grey mullet.
Do you seek the kind of thrill that will pump up your adrenalin? Karpenisi is the ideal destination as there is a multitude of activities for you throughout the year. So, don’t waste time, take a trip to the heart of Greek nature and see ravines with impressive waterfalls, dense forested areas and rapid river waters! If skiing or snowboarding is your thing, make a point of visiting Mt. Parnassos and nearby picturesque Arachova Village, the most cosmopolitan winter destination in Greece. Don’t miss the well-known archaeological sites at Orchomenos Village, Thebes, Plataiaes, and Chaeronea.
Ancient Greeks believed that Delphi was the Navel of the Earth, a place seen as a spiritual focal point for all Greeks; it included many sanctuaries and the most prestigious oracle in all of ancient Greece. This is where Pythia, the high priestess, uttered the divine advice of god Apollo to mortals who travelled from across the world to seek a prophecy. Apart from Greeks, the Oracle was visited also by foreign leaders and dignitaries who were anxious to know the will of Apollo on important state affairs.
At a stone’s throw from the archaeological site, you can visit present-day Delphi town, lying at the foot of Mt. Parnassus, near Arachova town. Choose the area for your winter holidays as it is close to Parnassus ski centre, or visit it any other time of the year and explore the beauty of nature and the nearby beaches. It’s situated at a conveniently short distance from the mountain, the woods, the archaeological sites that are famous the world over, and some beautiful beaches.
Arachova is a mountainous village nestling picturesquely at the foot of Mt. Parnassos in Viotia, Southern Greece. It is the most cosmopolitan winter destination in Greece, a great favourite for passionate ski lovers and celebrities, or just first-time visitors who wish to relax in a dreamy mountainous setting with modern tourism facilities. Its modern ski resort, its close proximity to Athens, and its breathtaking mountainous landscape are the strongest reason why. Apart from the mountain activities, Arachova is also famous for its bustling nightlife and as the favorite mountain resort of Athenians. It is located 35 km west of Livadeia.
Through the stunning mountainous landscapes of Fokida one reaches a town steeped in tradition and naval history. Galaxidi is one of the most picturesque towns along the south coast of central Greece. Galaxidi's two natural ports, Agora and Chirolakas, once provided a sanctuary for brave mariners from the local tumultuous waters. Today, the town's Maritime and folk art museums stand as guardians of the town's storied past, offering a glimpse into its legacy.
Are you a nature lover? Do you seek the kind of thrill that will pump up your adrenalin? Karpenisi is the ideal destination as there is a multitude of activities for you throughout the year. So, don’t waste time, take a trip to the heart of Greek nature and see ravines with impressive waterfalls, dense forested areas and rapid river waters!
Follow Krikellopotamos’ crystal clear waters amidst a verdant landscape. This route of remarkable beauty will take you all the way to the ravine of Panta-Vrechei [Always raining]. This well-known ravine owes its name to the impressive waterfalls which form ponds ideal for swimming; for those interested, the surrounding rocks are amazing natural climbing tracks. Another destination for climbers is the Black Cave where you will be able to combine hiking with climbing on a via ferrata [Italian for iron road] which means climbing on a rock where iron fixtures provide safety. Cascading waters will keep you company along the way. Let Tavropos and Trikeriotis rivers fascinate you with their rapid waterways. Sailing down Trikeriotis River will give an adrenaline rush to rafting fans whereas Tavropos River is a pleasant waterway for those less advanced or even for beginners. If you look for calmer waters, then Kremaston Lake is the best option for you as serenity and out of sight natural beauty will definitely win you over. It is a fine swimming destination in the summer and great for canoeing or kayaking all year round.
A particularly beautiful town of 10,000 inhabitants built in the shape of an amphitheater on a pine-clad slope. Known since the ancient times, Nafpaktos was the port and the military center of the Aetolian Confederacy. Due to its strategic position, it has often been the apple of discord among its conquerors. Nafpaktos is also known for the famous sea battle, during which the Turkish fleet was destroyed by the unified European forces (in October 1571). Miguel de Cervantes, the author of "Don Quixote", took part in this battle as a soldier on a Spanish ship. Nafpaktos participated in the Revolution of 1821 and was liberated in 1829.
Messolonghi is the capital of the prefecture of Aetoloakarnania and has approximately 13,000 inhabitants. It is built between the lagoon of Messolonghi and the one of Kleisova at the estuary of Evinos and Acheloos river.
According to the dominating opinion the name of the town is a combination of Italian words mezzo and langhi (Mezzolanghi) or messo langhi (Messolanghi) meaning "town between two lakes”.
Seven mountains, countless forested peaks and a rough terrain define mountainous Nafpaktia, a 550-square- kilometre area that extends north of beautiful Nafpaktos town.
Fokida, situated only a few hours away from Athens, constitutes an exceptionally gifted rough and at the same time warm and hospitable land.