Valia Calda – Portitsa

Vovousa | Spilaio

_our excursion

Valia Calda hiking tour, one of Greece’s most impressive and ecologically valuable national parks, offers a unique opportunity to explore the wild and untouched beauty of Pindos. Starting from the dense forests of black pine and beech, we have the opportunity to cross mountain paths, cross rivers and streams, and discover the small, hidden lakes of the area. Along the way, the amazing variety of flora and fauna will make every step an unforgettable journey into nature.

_activity

hiking | 7.3km & 10.5km | moderate & demanding difficulty | ages: 14+

1^st day

We depart on Saturday morning from Thessaloniki, heading to the village of Spilaio, where we will take a short hike in the Portitsa gorge.

The gorge is located at the foot of Orliakas, between the small mountains of Spilaios and Lykotrypa, and while it is short in length (total length approximately 500m) it is very impressive. At this point the Venetikos River flows, creating the small Kanavi Valley which ends in the gorge. At the western entrance of the gorge stands the stone bridge of Portitsa which was built in 1743 and is characterized as one of the most beautiful bridges in Greece.

After completing the hike, we will head towards Vovousa, a picturesque village in Valia Kalda. The route offers us beautiful images of northern Greece and prepares us for the adventure that follows. Arriving in Vovousa, we will settle into the shelter or the tents and get to know the group. Those who wish, after dinner, can take a walk in the village on the stone streets of the village which is built on the banks of the Aoos river.

2^nd day

On Sunday we start our day with a traditional breakfast at the shelter, to fill us with energy for the hike that follows. After breakfast, we start our hike towards Arkoudorema, one of the most enchanting spots of Valia Calda. Our route passes through beech and black pine forests, following the paths that cross the forest. As we walk, we will have the opportunity to observe the rich fauna and flora of the area. After arriving at Arkudorema and enjoying the beauty of the landscape by taking a dip in the pedestals, we return to the shelter and later we will depart for Thessaloniki, full of images and experiences of the natural beauty of Valia Kalda.

_accommodation

The Vovousa shelter is located at a distance of 3km from the village and has a capacity of 50 people. The overnight stay takes place in bunk beds divided into three spacious and comfortable rooms located on the first floor. On the ground floor of the building is the reception area, the living room and the restaurant of the refuge where you can find breakfast, lunch and dinner. Our bus reaches the shelter.

*On the Valia Kalda excursion for your stay there is also the option of camping which will be set up in a controlled area outside the refuge. In the camp you will find a 4-season tent set up (from 1 to 3 people) while you can use the common areas of the refuge. An important condition is to have a sleeping bag that covers you in the expected temperatures and a good substrate.