Overview

Beautiful and wild hike, mostly on  footpaths and through oak forest following the old trade route. The first section is a descent to Ntokous-Ntere stream followed by a hike along the stream to Modi village.

Description

From the center of Varvara follow signs to Nea Maditos. After about 2.5km you pass from a picnic spot on your left. Turn right on a rough track and follow it along a ridge. The track ends before an old field. Continue along the field for another 100m and then turn left into the forest to join the path that resembles a ditch. Although a bit overgrown and indistinct at places it is not hard to follow as it continues downhill on a narrow ridge. After passing a rocky saddle the path joins and crosses a stream at the confluence with another one. For a few meters it is indistinct, but then becomes clear again continuing gently along the left bank of the stream (ignore a path that ascents more steeply to the left). Soon it becomes broad again. Then you come to a junction (hard to spot) and you have to turn left climbing a few meters on a ridge. If you miss this just turn left towards the top of the ridge when the path crosses a clearing. You may then find the continuation of the path on the other side of the ridge, immediately joining a dirt road. Turn left and follow the road until it bends to the left. Turn right on a smaller track and when it bends right towards a field, continue straight on the footpath, recently marked with ribbons. Follow the well defined and beautiful path through oak forest. Approaching the bottom of the valley ahead it becomes rocky and a bit fuzzy and finally ends by the river bed. Turn left and walk along the stream for 100m.

Cross the stream and continue on the dirt road visible on the other bank. On a couple of junctions stay left. Eventually, about 200m after a steep right turn of the road, turn left on a small and bit overgrown footpath. Soon it becomes clear and broad and continues along the stream. It finally joins the track again. Bear left on this track to conclude the walk after 1.5km.

Amenities

There is not much to do in Modi. Head on for Asprovalta or Stavros for lodging.

Signposting

Partly way-marked with ribbons.

Transportation

Modi is served by bus twice a day (Thessaloniki-Asprovalta line).

Notes

A dry crossing of Ntokous-Ntere stream may not be possible early in the season or after heavy rain. There are orientation difficulties and thus use of GPS is highly recommended.