Taygetos (or Taygetus) is among the highest mountains in Greece, and the highest one in the Peloponnese. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, with lush vegetation, rich fauna but also picturesque and historic villages.

Geography and geology

Taygetos is located in southeastern Peloponnese, covering areas from the prefectures of Laconia, Messinia, and Arcadia. Its peak, Profitis Ilias (Prophet Elias), stands at around 2,404 m (7,887 ft). It is characterized by steep ridges, deep gorges, and green valleys. It is mainly made up of limestone and dolomite, featuring extensive karst formations such as caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers.

Biodiversity

Mount Taygetus encompasses large areas that form part of the Natura 2000 protected areas network: both Special Protection Areas (SPAs), designated under the Birds Directive, and Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), established under the Habitats Directive to protect habitats and other wildlife.

It features several distinct plant life zones, which change with altitude; lower slopes are covered by Mediterranean vegetation, such as shrubs and wild olive trees; middle elevations are characterized by coniferous forests with firs, pines, and cypresses, while the subalpine zone only features low shrubs and some scattered trees, and the alpine zone is made up of rocky slopes with sparse vegetation. On the other hand, the mountain’s ravines create microclimates thanks to their moisture and shade, favoring plant life such as linden, myrtle, ivy, etc.

The mountain hosts over 1,000 plant species; of those, about 100 are endemic to Greece, and about 33 are endemic to the Taygetos region itself. Among the flora species that are unique to the region we encounter mostly herbaceous plants, with some of the most notable being Aquilegia taygetea (a type of columbine), Jurinea taygetea (a type of thistle), Astragalus taygeteus (a type of vetch) and Hypericum taygeteum (a type of St John's wort).

The region also has a very rich birdlife (as demonstrated by its encompassing Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs)), with dozens of species recorded, thanks its mix of habitats. Some of the more interesting, conspicuous, or ecologically important birds you can see on Taygetos include the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), the short-toed snake eagle (Circaetus gallicus), the common buzzard (Buteo buteo), which is especially widespread, kestrels, hobbies, various types of owls, corvids, such as ravens, jackdaws, crows and magpies, and smaller passerines such as tits, warblers and flycatchers.

Various mammal species have also been reported; typical mammals of the area include red foxes, jackals, and other Mediterranean mountain mammals; wild boar and small carnivores also occur. Moreover, the variety of microhabitats (sunny rocky slopes, shady streams) supports numerous reptiles and amphibians.

History

The slopes of Taygetus have been inhabited since at least Mycenean times. Its history is closely linked with that of the ancient city-state of Sparta, which lay at the mountain’s eastern base in Laconia. Its sharp relief and rugged terrain made it a natural stronghold and, in those times, it played an important part as one of the city's natural defenses. The mountain was also used as a site for endurance and survival training for Spartan youth, as part of the agoge training program (a prerequisite for citizen status).

There is also a very steep ravine, the infamous Ceadas (or Caeadas), located a few kilometers from Sparta, where ancient Spartans would throw criminals, people condemned for treason, and prisoners of war. Archaeological research has in fact recovered multiple human remains from it bottom, along with arrowheads and spearheads, confirming that this was in fact used as a place of execution.

Later, during the Byzantine and Frankish periods, Taygetus served as a refuge for local populations against foreign invasions. Many of the villages in its slopes date from this period, as does the citadel of Mystras, originally built by Frankish crusaders on the east side of the mountain, and later captured by the Byzantine Empire.

From the mid-13^th century, Mystras served as the seat of the governor of the Byzantine territories in the Morea, while in 1348 it became the capital of the Despotate of Morea, an important center for the arts and letters, attracting eminent scholars and architects of the time. The citadel retained a significant role under Ottoman and Venetian rule; following Greece’s independence, however, the majority of its population resettled to the modern city of Sparta and Mystras was eventually abandoned.

Mystras and villages

Arguably the most impressive site on Taygetos is the medieval ghost town of Mystras, the ruins of which remain an impressive and imposing landmark. Recognized as an UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989, Mystras is celebrated for being a perfectly preserved Byzantine urban complex. Visitors can admire the churches and monasteries from the Byzantine times, including the Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Demetrius, dating back to the 15th century, and the historic monasteries of Peribleptos, Pantanassa and Brontochion. Apart from their impressive architecture, the churches preserve masterpieces of Byzantine painting.

However, apart from the famous Mystras, the mountains are also dotted with historic stone villages, many of which preserve their medieval or Ottoman-era character. Some of the most interesting ones are:

Longanikos (or Loganikos), built at an altitude of 770 meters in the northern part of the Evrotas valley; it is believed that this area has been inhabited since Neolithic times. The area is home to important monuments dating from the Late Bronze Age to Late Antiquity, and especially from Byzantine times. The Byzantine monastery of Agios Georgios and the church of Ascension are among the most interesting ones.

Parori, also not far from the city of Sparta, is full of picturesque old houses, fountains, and churches. It is close to the impressive gorge of Lagada and the cave church of Panagia Langadiotissa, built into the cliffs.

Arna, on the eastern slopes of Taygetos, is located at an altitude of 700 meters, surrounded by lush forests of apple, chestnut and walnut trees. It is a small village with quaint stone houses, famously crossed by the E4 European long-distance path which leads to the forest of Vasiliki, with tall fir tree ringed cliffs, and the small chapel of Agios Dimitrios at an altitude of 1490 m.

Kastania (or Kastanitsa), on the southeastern slopes, is one of the older settlements in Mani, gained importance as a naturally fortified zone. The area also boasts many Byzantine and post-Byzantine churches, some with preserved frescoes and hagiographic art. It also played an important part in the history of klephts, (anti-Ottoman insurgent who would eventually lead the Greek struggle for Independence), who used the area as their base to launch raids against the Ottoman forces.

Polyaravos, on the western slope, is officially recognized as a traditional village by presidential decree. It also played an important part during the Greek War of Independence. Now it is mostly deserted but its old stone houses retain their charm, as does the Church of Agios Konstantinos. The site also offers dramatic views of the surrounding peaks, valleys.

Read also via Greek News Agenda:  The medieval ghost town of Mystras; Greek mountains – a place for year-round tourism; Olympus: The mountain of the gods

N.M. (Into image: View of Taygetos by Deyan Vasilev (Dido3) via Wikimedia Commons)

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Although most people abroad would associate Greek landscapes with small islands, sunny beaches and a blue sea, there is another aspect to its natural beauty: over 70% of its total area is made up of mountains and hills. And in these terrains, impressive or quaint waterfalls are often formed – including on many of the famed Greek islands. Here is a list of but a few among Greece’s dozens of mesmerizing waterfalls.

Northern Greece

Edessa Waterfalls

The town of Edessa, in the region of Macedonia, boasts the country’s most famous waterfalls. They were formed following a strong earthquake that struck the surrounding area in the 14th century. The main source of these waterfalls is the wetland of Agra-Nissiou, from which flows the main river, Edessaios. Altough there are twelve of them in total, only four can be observed by visitors. The most impressive ones are Karanos, also known as the Great Waterfall (see intro image), falling from a aheight of around 70 meters, and the Diplos (“Twin”) Waterfall.

Skepasmeno Waterfalls

Skepasmeno Waterfalls, a series of waterfalls located near Velventos, in the Kozani region of Western Macedonia, Greece. The name "Skepasmeno" (meaning "covered" or "sheltered") is derived from a point where the stream is naturally covered by vegetation and rocks. It is a site of striking natural beauty, with its waterfalls, natural ponds, sycamore trees, cold-water springs, lush vegetation and impressive rock formations.

Livaditis Waterfalls

The Livaditis (or Trachoni) Waterfall is located near the village of the same name. Livaditis is the highest village within the Xanthi regional unit in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, situated at an elevation of 1,200 meters. The waterfall stands over 50 meters tall and is regarded as one of the largest ones in the Balkans by water flow.

Lepida Waterfall (Rodopi)

Lepida is a forest near the village of Paranesti in Rodopi, northern Greece, featuring beautiful waterfalls – a popular hiking destination known for its beauty and serene natural environment. The forest, part of the broader Rhodope Mountains, is characterized by its lush vegetation and is a good starting point for exploring the area's hiking trails, including those leading to the waterfall.

Souda Waterfalls

Souda Waterfalls, also known as Theodoriana waterfalls, are twin falls located near the village of Theodoriana, within the National Park of Tzoumerka, Peristeri, Arachthos Gorge & Acheloos Valley, in the region of Epirus. They are surrounded by a fir forest, making for a breathtaking scenery, and are easily accessible by car.

Boulouvaros Waterfalls

Near the traditional village of Milia, in the region of Epirus, you can find the verdant Gorge of Boulouvaros, created by the flaw of the eponymous river. The triple waterfalls created by the river make for an extremely picturesque scenery, and can be approached through a trail, so visitors can also enjoy a swim.

Bridge of Gretsi

A few kilometres south of the village of Kato Meropi in Epirus lays this single-arched bridge which spans a small ravine and sits above a small waterfall. It was built in 1830 to connect the two sides of Gormos river.

Orlias Gorge

Orlias or Orlia Gorge, located on the eastern slopes of Mount Olympus in Greece, is a popular destination for canyoning and river trekking. It's known for its stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters flowing through the gorge, creating waterfalls and natural pools ideal for swimming and diving. The area is also rich in flora and fauna, with many endemic plants and rare bird and mammal species.

Central Greece

Pantavrechi Gorge

The name of this gorge (also transliterated as Panta Vrehei, Panda Vrechei etc) means “it’s always raining”. It’s located in the Panaitoliko mount and merges with the river Krikellopotamos. Τhe icy waters coming from Mount Kaliakouda, fall from the top of the cliffs, creating waterfalls of sorts, underneath which you can hike, since the water feels more like heavy rain than an actual waterfall.  Small natural pools are formed at the base of the waterfalls where you can swim if can withstand the low temperatures. It’s considered an ideal trekking destination but can only be accessed for four months, between June and September.

Waterfalls of Pavliani

Pavliani is a picturesque village built on the slopes of mountain Oeta, known for its beautiful natural scenery and lush vegetation, especially in the Pavliani Recreation Park, which features trails that follow the Asopos river, crossing it via wooden bridges. A short hike from the park takes you to the serene waterfalls created by the river, another landmark of the site.

Drymonas Waterfalls

Although Evia (or Euboea) is an island (the second largest one in Greece), it proximity to the mainland of Attica and easy access by a bridge makes people consider rather as an extension of the mainland. Evia boasts magnificent natural beauty, featuring lush vegetation and beautiful beaches, especially in its northern part – where you can also find the Waterfalls of Drymonas (or Drimona), located in a dense fir forest.

Dimosari Gorge (Evia)

The southern part of Evia, however, does not lack in natural beauty: Dimosari Gorge, located on Ochi Mountains, offers a wonderful hiking trail leading to the sea in Kallianou beach, through a forest of chestnut, plane, wild olive and fruit trees, oaks and colorful flowers. Its most attractive part of the gorge is somewhere in the middle, close to the village of Lenosaioi, where a series of waterfalls offer a majestic view.

Peloponnese

The river of Neda in the Peloponnese crosses a canyon with lush vegetation, where you can find the beautiful waterfalls created by its waters, falling from a height of 60 meters. The area is full of evergreen trees, like holm-oaks, wild fig trees, and willows, while the flora also includes laurels and honeysuckles. The canyon is an ideal destination for hiking and trekking.

Nemouta Waterfalls

Nemouta Waterfalls are a hidden gem in the mountainous region of Elis, in the northern part of the Peloponnese. They are located relatively close to Ancient Olympia, but remain rather obscure because most are quite hard to access. One of them, the “Gate of Heaven”, is easily accessible by car; experienced trekkers, however, can discover more waterfalls and enjoy a unique unspoiled natural scenery if they follow Μ3 hiking trail starting from the nearby village of Foloi – where the eponymous “mythical” forest can also be found.

Polylimnio Gorge

Polylimnio Gorge in the region of Messenia is filled with dense vegetation and features multiple lakes and waterfalls connected by a path and small bridges. It's a popular destination for hiking, canyoning and ziplining, and those partial to cold waters can take a refreshing swim in the ponds.

Lepida Waterfall (Arcadia)

Lepida Gorge is a natural formation in Mount Parnon, in the region of Arcadia, Peloponnese. It features two waterfalls, one of 70 meters high and one 45 meters high. The first one, also known as Lepida (meaning blade in Greek), close to the village of Agios Ioannis, is accessible through a dirt road and following a short hike.

Islands

Waterfalls of Samothraki

Samothraki (or Samothrace) in northern Greece is a place known for its natural beauty, mountains, waterfalls, and rock pools. The waterfall known as Kremasto Nero (literally “hanging water”) or simply Kremastos is the highest waterfall on the island. The impressive waterfall, located on the southern side of the island, plunges into the sea from a height of 180 meters. Due to its wild and rugged terrain, it can only be accessed by sea.

Samothraki’s arguably most famous attraction, the Fonias (literally “murderer”) Gorge, known for its striking natural beauty, lush vegetation, rock pools (“vathres”) but also its steep and challenging hiking routes at higher altitudes. The gorge has three waterfalls, all flowing into vathres - the eponymous Fonias waterfall, the quaint Gerania, and tallest one, Klidosi, which has an altitude of 35 meters. The gorge is another ideal canyoning destination, but it takes experienced guides and caution.

There are other more smaller waterfalls in various parts of the island. Samothraki’s trademark natural pools (“vathres”) have been dug into the rock over a period of millennia, due to the many small rivers that spring from Mount Saos. In several cases, small waterfalls are created at the point were the water flows into the pools. Gria Vathra is one of the most famous and accessible ones.

Dimosari Waterfalls (Nydri), Lefkada

The high mountains in Lefkada are the source of numerous waterfalls that cascade down through the island's mountainous terrain and eventually reach the sea. One prominent example is the Dimosari Waterfall near the town of Nydri (hence also known as Nydri Waterfall). It takes a two-hour hike through lush pine forests but the scenery makes up for the effort.

Neraida Waterfall, Kythira

One of the most picturesque attractions on the island of Kythira is a waterfall known as Neraida (“Fairy”) but also as Fonissa (“Murderess”). The water plunges 65 feet into a cool, green pool. Reminiscent of a fairytale, the land is dotted with watermills, lakes and decorative bridges.

Man’Katsa Waterfall, Lesbos

The island of Lesbos boasts several waterfalls, due to its geological formations and ample rainfall. Arguably the most famous one is Man’Katsa, found in the Aspropotamos river, in the northeastern part of the island. The waterfall is 12 meters high with a 1-1.5m deep pit, and its name is probably of Turkish origin.

N.M. (Intro image: Edessa Great Waterfall [by EntaXoyas  via Wikimedia Commons])

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Cycling is an activity that allows you to discover the natural and cultural treasures of a region in the most pleasant and environmentally friendly way. With its mild climate, Mediterranean landscapes, rich history and world-renowned monuments, Greece is a tourist paradise for cyclists. Cycle tourism in Greece has grown significantly in recent years, and increasing demand has led to the development of related services.

Although the 3 EuroVelo routes that cross Greece are not completely signposted yet, infrastructure has developed and rural roads with low traffic provide great opportunities for cycle touring. Furthermore, more and more cities are building cycle paths and operating public bike-sharing schemes. The bike routes take you through breathtaking scenery and can at points be particularly challenging physically, due to the country’s mountainous terrain. Whether you want to push your limits or simply to discover hidden attractions off the bitten path, these routes will not leave you wanting.

The three European cycling routes that pass through Greece are EuroVelo (EV) 8, 11 and 13. The Mediterranean route EV8 (5,388 km), which spans the south of Europe, starts off in Cadiz in Andalusia, Spain and ends in Athens through Igoumenitsa. Moving from north to south, the EV11 route (5,964 km) runs from Norway's North Cape to Athens via Thessaloniki, while the new EV13 route (6,800 km) runs from the Arctic Ocean and the Barents Sea, on the border between Norway and Russia, to the Black Sea, crossing Greece in two sections: from Promachonas to Serres to Exochi to Drama, and from Kyprinos to Kastanies to Evros, along the Ardas river.

In more detail:

EuroVelo 8 - Mediterranean Route

If you take EuroVelo 8, you'll enter Greece via the border region of Epirus, without losing sight of the legendary Ionian Sea with its clear blue waters. From Igoumenitsa to Sivota, from Parga to Preveza, cyclists can visit historic villages such as Zalogo, Souli and Zagori, ride south to western Greece, from Astakos and Vonitsa to the Missolonghi-Aitoliko lagoons complex, where the deltas of the Acheloos and Evinos rivers meet. Facing the Echinades islands, cyclists cross the Antirrio-Rio bridge to arrive in Patras, the largest city in the Peloponnese, nationally famous for its carnival which has a history of nearly two centuries.

As they continue on this seaside route, they reach Xylokastro, ancient Sicyon and Kiato, later Corinth (close to the ruins of the famous ancient city of the same name) and Loutraki, a seaside resort known for its thermal springs. Following the coast from Megara they get to Eleusis, European Capital of Culture for 2023 and the site of the Eleusis Mysteries, Ancient Greece’s most renowned religious rituals. Finally the route takes them to Attica and the city of Athens, home to some of Greece’s most prominent cultural sites, including the famed Acropolis.

EuroVelo 11 - East Europe Route

The EuroVelo11 route begins in southeastern Norway and takes the traveler south to sunny Greece. Cyclists enter the country via Evzonοi (Kilkis) in central Macedonia, where the river Axios flows through the Valley of Paionia, praised by Homer and ancient poets and philosophers as one of Greece's natural beauties.

The route passes through the famous wine roads of Goumenissa, which produce Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) wines, then proceeds to Pella, the capital of the ancient Macedonian state. The next stop is Thessaloniki, a captivating destination in Greece, known for its rich history, gastronomy and lively atmosphere. In 1988, 15 of the city's most beautiful early Christian and Byzantine monuments were inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List.

Don't miss Mount Athos, the country's largest monastic community. Heading south, you'll come across Vergina and the archaeological site of Aigai, where one can visit the Macedonian tombs, including the tomb of Philip II. The route follows the east coast of Greece, offering superb views of Mount Olympus and Mount Pelion, passing through the town of Volos. The route continues to the historic sites of Thermopylae, Chaeronea and its famous lion, Thebes, Plataea and Eleusis, ending at the Acropolis.

EuroVelo 13 - Iron Curtain Trail

The European part of the EuroVelo13 known as the “Iron Curtain Trail” invites cyclists to retrace and experience one of the most important parts of the European continent's history. Holding the title of longest EuroVelo route, with 9,950 km, the EV13 has something for every taste, from the vineyards of southern Czechia and northern Austria to the mountainous borders of Bulgaria and Greece.

The route, which crosses 20 countries, enters Greece from Petrich, Bulgaria, through the Promachonas border crossing, to north of the National Park of Lake Kerkini. Although the Greek section of the Iron Curtain Trail is fairly short, cyclists have the opportunity to cycle through the former “surveillance zone”, a heavily militarized area along the border between Bulgaria and Greece. The route follows the Metaxas Line and Fort Roupel, then skirts the Greek-Bulgarian border to the Forte Lisse, the last point on the route before leaving the Exochi border crossing in Drama.

The route then follows the natural border of Rodopi, passing through the prefectures of Drama, Xanthi and Rodopi, and re-enters Greece at the Kyprinos border crossing at the region of Evros. The route continues along the River Ardas, on whose banks the eponymous festival takes place in the summer, featuring camping facilities and music from Greece and the Balkans, and attracting many young people.

EuroVelo Project

EuroVelo is a project by the European Cyclists' Federation (ECF, a non-profit member-based umbrella federation), aimed at developing a network of high-quality, long-distance cycle routes linking the whole of Europe. These routes can be used by tourists as well as local residents who commute by bike.

The plan for the first twelve EuroVelo routes were conceived in 1995, and EuroVelo was officially launched in 1997. The first EuroVelo route “opened” in 2001, and the network continues to expand. It is not yet fully developed, and its 17 routes are at different stages of development, regarding issues such as safety. To help cyclists know what type of route they're going to encounter, the captioned EuroVelo map classifies the state of progress of the routes into four categories, including the “Certified” category. By now, 67% of the network of over 92,000 km is ready for cycling. The European Cyclists' Federation (ECF) coordinates, supervises, monitors and quantifies all this, in collaboration with national partners.

The national partner in Greece is the NGO Cities for Cycling, which is implementing a series of actions to promote the use of bicycles and the development of cycle tourism in Greece. One of its priorities is to create a platform for the exchange of knowledge and experience between Greece and European cities.

The National EuroVelo Coordination Centre for Greece has recently been set up, following a memorandum of cooperation signed between the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, the Ministry of Tourism, the Central Union of Greek Municipalities and the organization "Cities for Cycling", with the aim of monitoring, improving and promoting the three EuroVelo routes in Greece.

Based on the original article from Grèce Hebdo

Intro photo source: eurovelo.gr

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Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece and second highest in the Balkans. Primarily famous as the residence of the twelve gods of Greek mythology, it is a National Park of great importance for the country’s biodiversity, a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and an important landmark for the area’s identity and history.

Olympus in myth

The exact origin of the word Olympus is uncertain, but it most likely has pre-Greek roots. The mountain was considered to be the seat of the “twelve gods”, the major deities worshipped by ancient Greeks – which is the reason why these are often referred to as the “twelve Olympians”.

In ancient Greece, it was primarily Zeus who was called by the epithet “Olympian”, as he was the king of the gods and ruler of Mount Olympus. The ancient city of Olympia in the Peloponnese (quite far from Olympus Mountain) took its name from that epithet, as it was the center of the cult of Olympian Zeus. Hence, the mountain has indirectly lent its name to the most important athletic event worldwide, the Olympic Games, which used to be held in Olympia.

Location, morphology, geology, climate

The Olympus massif is located on the border between the regions of Thessaly (central Greece) and Macedonia (northern Greece). The highest peak of Mount Olympus, called Mytikas, reaches 2,917 meters (9,570 feet). The mountain features steep slopes, deep gorges, and high peaks, with over 50 summits, with a terrain consisting of rugged cliffs, alpine meadows, and dense forests.

It is mainly composed of limestone and dolomite, which formed during the Mesozoic era (about 200 million years ago). The mountain was shaped by tectonic movements and erosion, creating its steep, jagged peaks; due to its limestone composition, it features karstic formations, including caves and sinkholes.

The climate of Mount Olympus varies significantly with altitude, ranging from a typical Mediterranean climate at low altitudes to an alpine one at higher altitudes, with colder temperatures, frequent fog, and heavy snowfall in winter. The peaks are covered with snow for most of the year, while strong winds and rapid weather changes are common at high elevations.

Sites of interest

On the eastern slopes of the mountain is the Enipeas Gorge, one of the most famous and impressive canyons in Greece. It is a popular hiking destination, offering a mix of dense forests, waterfalls, caves, and historical sites. It is named after the Enipeas River, which forms small waterfalls, natural pools and streams, ideal for a refreshing swim in the summer.

The gorge is home to oak, pine, and beech forests, as well as rare flowers, while golden eagles and peregrine falcons can sometimes be spotted. Among its attractions there is also the ruins of the historic Monastery of Agios Dionysios (Saint Dionysius), established in 1542 and destroyed during the Nazi occupation of Greece.

At the foot of Mount Olympus, in the Pieria regional unit, lies the village of Dion, named after the god Zeus (deriving its name from “dios”, the genitive of Zeus in Ancient Greek). It is famous for the Archaeological Park of Dion, located at the site of the eponymous ancient city, an important religious and cultural center of ancient Macedonia. It was home to the greatest temple of Zeus in the ancient Kingdom of Macedon.

The Archaeological Park encompasses extensive ruins from residential and public buildings, an agora, bathhouses, workshops, sanctuaries, theaters and a cemetery. Among the park’s most notable sites are the Sanctuary of Zeus Olympios, with a majestic temple dedicated to the father of gods, surrounded by altars for sacrifices and inscriptions honoring Macedonian kings, the Temple of Demeter, the Sanctuary of Isis and the Ancient Theater of Dion -both built during the Hellenistic period- and the Roman forum and public baths. The Archaeological Museum of Dion, located near the ruins, houses a rich collection of statues, inscriptions, mosaics, pottery, and religious artifacts.

Biodiversity and conservation status

Due to its great natural significance, Mount Olympus is a protected area that was given national park status in 1938, becoming Greece’s first national park. It was also designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981. This protected status helps safeguard the diverse ecosystems and rare species that inhabit its slopes. Efforts are made to preserve the delicate ecosystems, which include both Mediterranean and alpine species.

The Mount Olympus National Park covers an area of approximately 1,200 square kilometers and is known for its unique biogeography, with its various climatic zones resulting in rich biodiversity. The area’s flora is divided into four vegetation zones:

• low-altitude forests, which feature typical Mediterranean vegetation, including oak trees, strawberry trees, kermes oaks, bay laurels, cedars etc.
• mid-elevation forests with both deciduous and evergreen species, mainly black pines, beech, fir and chestnut trees, and a rich undergrowth of ferns and wildflowers
• high-elevation coniferous forests with pines (with the Bosnian pine being the most typical) and shrubs
• the alpine zone (above 2,200m), featuring low vegetation such as mosses, and alpine flowers.

The park is home to more than 1,700 plant species, about 25 of which are endemic to Olympus, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world; these include the Ramonda (Jankaea) heldreichii, a rare relict species of the Cenozoic Era, and the Campanula oreadum, a bellflower, both encountered exclusively in Olympus’ alpine tundra.

The mountain’s fauna includes wild boars, roe deer, foxes, badgers, and wild goats, while the rare Balkan chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica) can be found in rocky areas. Reptiles include the Greek tortoise, Balkan green lizard, and salamanders in the rivers, and the endangered meadow viper (Vipera ursinii). There are also over 100 bird species, including golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and woodpeckers, and alpine choughs and rock partridges in high elevations, while insects include many endemic butterflies, beetles and bees.

Mountainiring

Mount Olympus offers some of the most breathtaking mountaineering and hiking routes in Greece, ranging from beginner-friendly trails to challenging ascents to Mytikas (2,917m), the highest peak. Organized mountain refuges exist at various altitudes; no special permits are required. The first recorded ascent of Mount Olympus was made in 1913 by Swiss climbers Daniel Baud-Bovy, Frédéric Boissonnas, and their Greek guide Christos Kakkalos.

Litochoro, a small town at the foot of the mountain, often serves as the main gateway for hikers and climbers. There are also various other hiking routes, such as the one starting at Prionia (1,100m), the highest point accessible by car, and following the E4 European long-distance path through lush forests and waterfalls. Most trails pass through beech and pine forests, but also the Enipeas Gorge, waterfalls, natural pools, caves, and historical sites, and of course offer breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain.

Read also via Greek News Agenda: Meteora, the hanging monasteries of Greece; Ancient Olympia: Panhellenic Sanctuary and home of the Olympics; Athos, the ‘Holy Mountain’

N.M.

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One of the most important attractions in the prefecture of Kilkis is the Balkan Botanic Garden of Kroussia. It is located in Pontokerasia, a village near Kilkis, about 70 kilometers from Thessaloniki. The garden is located in the deciduous oak forests of Mount Mavrovouni, part of the Kroussia mountain range, at an altitude of 600 meters.

BBGK’s mission is to support research, maintenance, propagation, evaluation, conservation and sustainable use of the native plants of Greece and the Balkans, combined with raising public awareness of the environment.

The garden was founded May 19, 2001, following an initiative of the Hellenic Agricultural Organization "Demeter", and became a member of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) in the same year. It features a diverse flora that includes both endemic species as well as species indigenous to the Balkans, and plants from all over Greece, including the island of Crete.

The garden covers an area of 31 hectares (310,000 square meters), half of which is covered by natural oak forest. In the forest, hundreds of indigenous species and subspecies are preserved, both ex situ and in situ. In the rest of the garden, species of Greek flora are cultivated ex situ, including more than 90 taxa from over 150 categories. These include rare and endemic species, including remarkable populations of at least eight different orchid species.

There are over 8,000 different plant species and subspecies on the Balkan Peninsula, a significant proportion of which are endemic and do not grow in any other region of the world.

Visitors to the Botanic Garden have the opportunity to explore the following zones: the seasonal biodiversity path, the alpine and alpine subalpine plant growth area, the grassland biodiversity and the adventure path. Signage and maps are available in Greek and English.

The garden also features a tree grove with shrubs and trees from around Greece, lakes and small waterfalls with aquatic vegetation, a wide variety of aromatic, medicinal and flowering plants and the Garden of Senses with buildings that host annual photographic exhibitions on plants.

BBGK prioritizes Greek endemic plants with a narrow distribution, Balkan endemic plants with a narrow distribution, endemic plants to the collective region of the Balkans, and native plants with aromatic-medicinal properties, alimentary value, ornamental-floricultural or breeding potential. Many hundreds of plant-collecting expeditions have been organized in all phytogeographical regions of Greece to collect seeds, bulbs, rhizomes, cuttings and living individuals from the wild.

N.M. (Based on an original article in Griechenland Aktuell; intro image: Entrance to the garden, by Nikthymakis via Wikimedia Commons)

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The two-lake system of Great Prespa (Megali Prespa) and Little Prespa (Mikri Prespa), located at the north-western tip of Greece and surrounded by mountains, form one of Europe's most important wetlands and a landscape of outstanding natural beauty. Hundreds of bird species nest and breed here, including Dalmatian pelicans, cormorants and herons.

The Prespes area, declared a "national park" in 1974, is protected by European and international conventions, while Little Prespa is also protected by the Ramsar Convention as a unique wetland. The Little Prespa Ramsar site covers an area of around 5,000 hectares and was one of the first to be included on the list of wetlands of international importance, in 1975.

The area of Prespes Lakes is known not only for its natural beauty, rich biodiversity and waterfowl populations, but also for its cultural heritage, notably its Byzantine monuments and the traditional architecture of its villages (houses built of stone, wood, earth and reeds). The villages of Agios Germanos and Psarades (a traditional fishing village) are among the most picturesque in the region. One of the Prespes' most famous sites is the islet of Agios Achillios (Mikri Prespa), home to the important monument of the Basilica of Agios Achillios, dating from the 10th century AD.

The best-known local produce are the giant white Prespes beans ("Gigantes" in Greek), a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) product.

"Poliprespa": a sustainable development program for the Prespes region

The "Poliprespa" program (2018-2023), which was designed specifically for the Prespes region, was made possible thanks to the collective effort and active participation of local residents and stakeholders, who implemented around 50 projects. Its aim was to create an innovative development model for the region, combining the preservation of the natural and cultural environment with improvements in the daily lives of local residents. The program, 40% of which was funded by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, involved the municipality of Prespes, the Society for the Protection of Prespa, the "Pelekanos" agricultural cooperative, local schools and cultural and sports associations, among others. The three pillars of the "Poliprespa" program were: "Environment", "Economy" and "Society".

Environment

Protecting the natural environment and biodiversity is at the heart of the Poliprespa program. Environmental management projects were carried out to protect the wetland ecosystem, with benefits not only for biodiversity, but also for the local community. Within this framework, the rural development initiatives undertaken ensured the protection of natural resources.

The management of the Mikri Prespa reed bed (purchase of an amphibious machine for reed mowing), the use of plant biomass for animal feed and the intelligent agriculture project (use of an application for sustainable agriculture) are just some of the projects carried out.

Economy

To strengthen the local economy, agro-environmental projects have been designed and implemented, with the aim of offering products and services specifically adapted to the characteristics of the Prespes area, such as the project to protect the quality of the famous IGP giant white beans.

Ecotourism is another project of the "Poliprespa" program, which aims to promote the development of sustainable tourism, preserving the region's natural and cultural values. To this end, the old water mill of Agios Georgios (Europa Nostra Award 2016) has been restored. In addition, an app for five hiking trails and a workshop for the conservation of the region's Byzantine antiquities have been created.

Society

The "Society" pillar includes projects implemented in the fields of education, sport and culture, which have contributed to improving social services and succeeded in cultivating the creativity and cooperation of the region's children and young people.

The various projects were designed to meet the needs of local schools (equipping computer and chemistry laboratories, school outings and trips, etc.), as well as those of cultural and sports associations (organizing cultural events, upgrading facilities at the local sports center, participating in sporting events, etc.). The modernization of the municipal library has helped to attract a greater number of young people and children, as well as to organize a range of educational activities.

To mark the completion of the program, a digital platform is being developed to create an online community and facilitate cooperation between the inhabitants of the Prespes region.

Translated from the original article which appeared on Grèce Hebdo (Intro image: © Society for the protection of Prespa/ Z. Anastasiadou)

Read also via Greek News Agenda: Fishing tourism: New opportunities open up for Greece; Greek Ramsar Wetlands

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In the southern part of the Peloponnese is the Cape Maleas peninsula,which features some impressive geological formations. Among them we find the caves of Kastania, one of Greece’s most impressive cave systems, and the Agios Nikolaos Geopark with its unique petrified forest.

The Caves of Kastania – A hidden gem

Hidden not far from the port of Neapolis and Elafonissos, the caves remained unknown to people until they were discovered in the early 1900s by a shepherd, Kostas Stivaktas. One day, while grazing his sheep, he observed some bees coming in and out of a crack in the ground; assuming that there might be an underground source, he widened the crack and was amazed to discover an impressive cave. From then on, he and his descendants would continue using the caves for their water deposits.

The cave was formed within the Jurassic limestone unit of Tripoli after a period of geological disturbance followed by an active period of casting and chemical sedimentation.

In 1958, when the caves had become better known, the municipality of Kastania was given the task of guarding and enhancing them.

The cave extends over an area of 1,500 sq.m., and is divided into two levels. It features rare speleothems (geological formations created in caves by mineral deposits), such as shields (or discs), flat stalagmites, eccentrics and helictites. You may also encounter dolichopoda, a genus of cave crickets. Some of the cave’s parts have yet to be explored.

The Geopark of Agios Nikolaos – A landscape out of space and time

The Geopark of Agios Nikolaos consists of a petrified palm forest on the seaside; it is included in the Atlas of Geological Monuments of the Aegean and now claims a place in the Geoparks of Europe Network. The coasts of Agios Nikolaos, Agia Marina, Spitha and Voies represent the most interesting part of the forest, where rare sea fossils can be observed at the coast and the surrounding fields.

Geological dispersion, earthquakes and volcanic activity led to the fossilization of the paleoflora of the area millions of years ago. Organic matter from trees, plants and mollusks was replaced molecule by molecule by silicon and calcium solution in a slow process that took place under the sea.

On-site research and restoration work has revealed palms, conifers and hardwood trunks and roots, and also shallow water fauna such as mollusks, ostracodes, echinoderms, etc. One has the opportunity to observe and discover remains of animal or plant organisms preserved in sediments that have undergone numerous fossilization processes. Roots reaching up to a meter in diameter and a multitude of fossilized creatures are preserved today in a large area of the Agios Nikolaos beach, making this a veritable geological museum of immense value.

Sources: https://www.kastaniacave.gr/en/, https://www.keppedm.gr/geoparko/

N.M. (Based on an original article from Punto Grecia)

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