Overview

From the plane of Strimonas, to the alpine pastures of Paggaio over a high saddle. This is a long and demanding hike exposed to the sun and with orientation difficulties in case of foggy weather. Nevertheless the landscape and vistas are rewarding.

Description

Walk east, out of the village, towards the valley ahead. Follow the broad track that crosses the stream over a bridge and ascents gently. After about 1.5km from the bridge there is a junction and there are two alternatives routes. The “official” one described here, to the right, is longer but more scenic. So, turn right and start to ascent along the track with switchbacks through forest to reach Rodolivos mountain refuge after about 4km. From there continue on the track for another 3km, soon out of the forest, to reach a shepherd's hut. There is a trough with drinkable water after 100m along the track.

Follow the well trodden cow trail  behind the hut to a saddle, and then continue along the ridge, where the trail is lost under tall grass, to reach another saddle on the main mountain ridge below Koumpili peak. Amazing views to all directions. Treverse the slopes on the north side of the peak, on a distinct trail,  to reach another saddle and trail junction. Turn north-east and continue along the western slopes of Voskos peak to a trough with icy cold water. If you intend to spend the night on the mountain stock up with water here.

Now continue on a track soon passing another shepherds hut. This is where the alternative route joins. After about 100m from the hut turn right, steeply at first, along a well trodden cow trail that traverses gently the steep slopes high above a valley on your left hand side. Gradually, after a rocky section, the trail approaches the valley and continues along it across pastures filled with wild flowers. The valley is blocked by a rocky ridge with a distinct saddle. As you approach it the trail becomes less and less visible until it disappears under tall grass but it is straightforward to continue to the saddle. There are O4 poles here, marking an alternative route from Ikosifinissa monastery. Trikorfo and Mati peaks are also short climb from this point.

Immediately after the saddle cross a track and continue steeply following the poles along a grassy ridge. Soon the footpath becomes visible again. Follow it to reach the mountain refuge “Hatzigeorgiou” on the edge of the beautiful “Orfeas” valley.

Amenities

Both mountain refuges are normally locked, but if you are a large group you may negotiate that someone opens them for you (Rodolivos Refuge: SEO Rodolivous, 2324071252, 6948804601, Hatzigeorgiou refuge: SXO Kavalas, 697 877 0560). Alternatively there is a covered porch at Hatzigeorgiou refuge that may host about five people.

Signposting

There are only a couple of old O4 poles until the high saddle below Trikorfo. Sufficiently marked after that.