Overview

This very nice section follows the ravine of Kotza Dere stream on the footsteps of mountain Paiko. There are several highlights along the route to sustain interest.

Description

The first section leads to Pigi following a dirt road starting from the west of Axioupoli. The track joins the tarmac just before the village. An alternative route which is however longer is to follow the old “French road”. Take the road to Skra and after passing the bridge of Kotza Dere stream turn left on a wide track. Once you come by the river again turn steeply left on the footpath over a footbridge build on the standing piers of the old light railway bridge  built by the French during the first world war. Continue on the left bank of the stream on a paved path and eventually cross the stream once again to join a track coming from Pigi. Look for the path continuing along the stream. This path becomes eventually blocked luckily just before abandoned fields. Continue along the stream to join a paved road from Pigi just after a bridge.

Turn right along the road and after about 100m turn left on a wide track approaching the stream. The ravine becomes gradually narrower and the route becomes more shaded and interesting. There are a couple of wooden bridges off track on your left hand providing access to some nice water pools. You will also cross a side path leading to a magnificent viewpoint of the gorge. The track crosses the stream by a large water pipe and then comes to a junction where you have to turn right and cross the stream once more to join the paved road coming from Pigi. Turn left along the road finishing on a camping spot with a water tap ideal if you want to split the route.

Continue on the dirt road to the top of the artificial lake of Metalio (Limni Metaliou) in a tranquil setting. Follow the road along the lake and then along the stream. The road finishes after about 7km by a wooden bridge. Cross the bridge and follow the paved footpath to the famous waterfalls with their beautiful blue lagoon. Turning back to the the trailhead take the steep footpath ascending to a parking lot. Continue on the paved road to finish the walk in Skra square.

Signposting

A few non-informative signs only.

Amenities

There a few rooms for rent in Skra (Tel: 23430 25100), a couple of tavernas and a small shop.

Transportation

There is a regular bus service to Polikastro (Tel: 23430 22315).

Notes

You have to cross the stream a couple of times. Early in the season or after heavy rain the water can be knee deep.