On the occasion of our annual meeting in the village of Athanasios Diakos, we had a beautiful drive in the region of Vardoussia (Central Greece). The village has two access roads: one-main- is through the village of Kato Mousounitsa and one through the villages Mavrolithari - Kastriotissa.
The paving of the second route has been completed recently and neither Sakis-frequently visited the village due to his origin-did not know. Our visit was the perfect opportunity to do a little trip along the concrete driveway.
So we left Athanasios Diakos moving in a helical path that crossed fir. In many places we could enjoy the view of the snow capped mountain peaks of Vardoussia. Elsewhere was created small waterfalls. As expected, we made many stops for pictures, despite the fact that the pleasant driving and comfortable bends urged not to stop! Nevertheless -and especially after the village Kastriotissa- the route had spots with panoramic views of the mountains: Vardousia, Giona and Iti!
The weather was our ally, giving us the opportunity to enjoy the trip more. We passed villages of Mavrolythari, the smallest Pyra approaching the relatively newly built chalet (Vryzes area). The coffee stop was necessary! We sat outdoor, and despite the cold, the sun helped us to enjoy the view, which reminded the Alps...
After some time, we continued to the nearby village of Pavliani, built in 1050m. The road approached the village of Kato Pavliani. In the central junction, we turned left towards to Ano Pavliani. In a short distance, we approached the entrance of the Natural Park that the village hosts.
It is about a park set up by the villagers, next to the river created by the sources of Asopos River. Initially, the trail meets a watermill and water saw, which we visited. Then the magical forest path traverses ancient trees beside streams, resulting in the heart of the natural park. In several places there are structures such as swings, hammocks, volleyball court, stands on the river, ropes for climbing trees, tree houses, and others. All this in complete coexistence with the environment! The path was passable and comfortable, while the duration of the hike did not exceed 20-30 minutes. It really had so much interest that we did not understand how the time passed!
We took the road back to Athanasios Diakos following the path through the village of Stromi, where we made a short stop. The occasion was the impetuous small waterfall at the entrance of the village. We took some pictures and continued.
The tour ended at the village square that we had been hosted the days of our annual meeting. We chose to eat at one of the taverns, enjoying local flavors. Athanasios Diakos is a tourist destination, offering accommodations and restaurants that will satisfy the most demanding visitor. The name comes from the hero of the Revolution of 1821, which survives to this day the now-renovated house that is said he lived for several years.
Certainly is an amazing destination with several trails in the area...
