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 first part being the most interesting.

Description

From Varvara square follow the main road towards Arnea. After passing the large bridge at the bottom of the village turn right on a good dirt road. Just before a right turn of this road, turn left on the footpath that crosses a dry stream. Straight ahead it has becomed blocked so follow some signs to left through a meadow and then right again to rejoin the path by the remains of an old pen. Continue on a good path ascending gently on the left of a deep gully. Eventually reach a saddle where you join the dirt road again.

Cross the road and continue on an indistinct trail on the ridge ahead, passing by the ruins of another pen. A track comes here too. Continue on the ridge descending gently at the beginning and more steeply later on. Where the track fades out continue on the path which is here eroded and splits into several sections but it is not hard to follow. Eventually it becomes clear again and comes to the bottom of a ravine after crossing a rough track. Cross the stream and continue uphill on the path that is a bit fuzzy at places gaining another ridge. A road makes a sharp left turn here. Ignore it and continue on a smaller track on the other side of the ridge (this was until recently a footpath). Start descending gently always through oak forest to the bottom of yet another ravine.

Follow  the track on the other side of the stream a bit steeply to join a larger road. Turn left on this road along a ridge to the top of the hill with a telco tower. Continue on this broad track, now downhill, and you will eventually join the paved road coming from Stanos village. Turn left on this road and walk for another 1.3 km to reach Arnea.

Amenities

Arnea offers plenty of lodging and dining facilities, pharmacy, small hospital and shops.

Signposting

Plastic ribons.

Transportation

There is a regular bus service (KTEL) towards Thessaloniki and Ierissos (www.ktel-chalkidikis.gr)