Overview

The route follows the old trail linking the two villages now replaced partly by a dirt road. It is a beautiful shaded walk with its second part being the most interesting.

Description

From Arnaia square continue on the main road to Ierissos but then turn left towards Stanos. Cross the new ring road and after 1.2km where the road bends left turn right on a good track and follow it, through forest, to the top of the hill ahead with a telecom antenna.  Continue now downhill gradually turning from north-east to north. After passing from a shrine hanging on a tree turn right on a track that ends by the bottom of a ravine.

Cross the stream continuing on a track on its other side (this was a path until recently). The track comes to a junction with a larger track which makes here a steep right turn.  Continue on the other side of the ridge to find the footpath descending to another ravine. Cross it and immediately join a rough track. Easily find the path on its opposite side and start ascending again. Here the path is partly eroded and steep but well shaded. Eventually you  gain the top of the ridge and following it past the remains of an old pen you will join a large dirt road on a saddle.

Continue on the path straight ahead going down again. Soon the path becomes very clear and descends on the right of a deep gully in dense forest. After passing by another ruined pen it becomes blocked so turn right along a meadow and eventually join the dirt road again. Following this to the left you will emerge on the paved road coming from Arnaia. Follow it to Varvara square.

Amenities

Varvara has tavernas and a couple of hostels.

Signposting

Plastic ribons.

Transportation

Taxi to Arnea (Tel: 23720 22212)