The region of Etoloakarnania may not be one of the first places that you think of when it comes to beautiful hiking trails in the nature of Greece. However, not only is it full of them but it is also one of the last places where you can still enjoy them in their “pristine” form. Aitoloakarnania, blessed with rich flora, fauna and a unique landscape, invites you to discover an unknown side of Greece. In this small guide, we gather and present you with 5 unique hiking trails in the region of Aitoloakarnania.
Near the village of Thermo and on an old path you will find one of the most historic bridges in the region. The Stone Bridge of Artotiva is built on the old route that once connected the villages of Kato Chrysovitsa and Achladokastro. It is probably a building of the Venetian Era (1407 – 1499) and is undoubtedly one of the best-preserved bridges in the whole area. The bridge can also be reached by off-road vehicle but we suggest you complete the trail on foot to enjoy the scenery the way it deserves. You can start your hiking from Kareli point where there is also a wonderful tavern that serves local dishes.
The trail to the stone bridge of Artotiva
2. Fire lookout tower of Arakynthos Mountain
The mountains of Arakynthos are located south of the city of Agrinio. There you can walk on the forest road that reaches the highest point of the mountain range and reach the fire lookout tower of Arakynthos. It is a short and easy trail but it is full of spectacular scenery and rich vegetation. The place is truly unique and especially in autumn the orange shades of the forest and the leaves will captivate you. You can find out more about the route here
The path to the fire lookout tower of Arakynthos mountain:
3. Trifos waterfalls and baths
The thermal baths and the waterfalls of Tryfos are located in a mountainous area northwest of Agrinio. Unfortunately, the facilities of the thermal baths and the path leading to the waterfalls are abandoned and access in some of the spots is not so easy. Also, the road leading to the hotel is destroyed on most of its part so you have to leave your car at some point and walk to the facilities. Despite the difficulties, the magical journey of the water in the gorge combined with the lush green landscape makes this place one of its kind and it definitely worths a visit.
The path to the Trifos waterfalls and baths:
4. "Twin" Waterfalls of Mokistianos
The “twin” waterfalls of Mokistianos are located just outside of Agrinio and next to the largest lake in Greece. After a short and well-maintained path that starts from the road that connect Agrinio and Thermo, you will find two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Greece. The symmetry and similarity of the two waterfalls justify their characterisation. The place is also ideal for swimming especially during the summer months when the temperatures are higher.
The path to the “Twin” Waterfalls of Mokistianos
5. Church of Saint Andrew the Hermit and Mount Kanala
One of the best places to enjoy a unique view of the largest artificial lake in Greece is Mount Kanala. Mount Kanala is located northeast of Agrinio and is part of the so-called Valtos mountain range. There are two unique trails in the area, one of which leads to the ridge of Mount Kanala and the other to the church of Saint Andrew, which is built in a cave on the slopes of the mountain. The two trails start from the last part of the forest road that starts from the village of Chalkiopouli and both are special in their own way.
The Path to the cave of Saint Andrew the Hermit:
In this guide, we presented you with 5 unique hiking trails in the region of Aitoloakarnania. Whether you are an experienced or casual hiker there is always a beautiful hike somewhere in the region of Aitoloakrnania. Make sure to explore the rest of our blog to discover even more unique places, trails and foods.
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