Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
GORGE YOURSELF
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity in these magnificent surroundings. There are some
splendid walks along the
Lousios Gorge
; the most accessible departure points are
from Stemnitsa or Dimitsana. Walks vary from one hour to long (and hilly) day
trips, where you can hike the entire length of the gorge, taking in monasteries in-
cluding Prodomou and New and Old Philosophou. Other walks extend beyond the
gorge to mountain villages. A range of walks is outlined in the excellent publication
Walker's Map of the River Lousios Valley(€7.50), available at the Open-Air Water
Power Museum (
Click here
)
in Dimitsana.
Rafting & Kayaking
Based in the village of Dimitsana,
Trekking Hellas of Arcadia
( 6974459753, 27910
25978;
www.trekkinghellas.gr
)
offers various activities, including white-water rafting (€50
to €80) on the Lousios and Alfios Rivers and hiking along the gorge (€20 to €50).
Minimum rates apply.
Caution: river activities must not be taken lightly. Fatal accidents can and do oc-
cur.
Sleeping & Eating
Sarakiniotis Rooms
PENSION $
( 6974451200;
www.sarakiniotis.gr
;
s/d/tr €45/55/65; )
Among the town's few budget
options are these basic, slightly dark rooms, though they're not great value.
Mpelleiko
B&B $$$
( 6976607967;
www.mpelleiko.gr
; s/d/tr incl breakfast €65/75/85; )
Superior in design
and with a lofty location, this superbly renovated house is perched behind the village and
is by far the most original and beautiful of all sleeping options. The ultra-hospitable and
knowledgeable English-speaking owner, Nena, has converted her family home (dating
from 1650) into a stylish, contemporary guesthouse. You can even sleep in the former
'donkey basement'.
Breakfast includes homemade, organic produce and is served in a beautiful room with
an open fireplace. For directions, enquire at the jam shop at the southern end of town sig-
nified by a 'B&B' sign.
