Hiking in Vlachokerasia - Skiritida Forest

On Sunday, 25 October 2026, we return to Vlachokerasia in Arcadia for a unique hike through the renowned Skiritida Forest, exploring a lush landscape that seems to have emerged from the pages of an illustrated storybook.

🔶 What You Will Experience

A different hiking experience in the heart of Arcadia, following forest trails through dense woodland and alongside streams and riverside passages. The route combines the deep ravines of Skiritida with open sections along the ridge, offering beautiful views across the surrounding mountain landscape.

Pine trees, chestnut trees, plane trees, strawberry trees, oaks and willows create a rich natural environment. Springs, old watermill channels and small waterways bring the landscape to life throughout the hike.

This activity is designed for hikers with previous experience on Level B routes who are looking for a more authentic hiking experience away from crowded and frequently used trails.

🔶 Skiritida Forest

Skiritida Forest is located in southern Arcadia, between Mount Mainalo, Mount Parnon and the natural passage towards Mount Taygetos. Vlachokerasia is one of the villages surrounding the forest and serves as both the starting and finishing point of our hike.

The forest’s present form is closely connected to the work of forester and author Tasos Stefanou. In 1976, he encouraged the residents of Vlachokerasia and the neighbouring villages to plant pine trees, fir trees, oaks and chestnut trees, helping create the impressive forest ecosystem that exists today.

Tasos Mitsios was the creator and driving force behind the trail we will follow, contributing significantly to the promotion of this remarkable area.

🔶 The Hiking Route

The hike follows a complete route of approximately 14 kilometres, with a large part of the trail unfolding beneath the forest canopy.

The first four kilometres pass through dense woodland. For the following six kilometres, we hike alongside the river and its tributaries, passing springs, ravines and old channels once used by traditional watermills and water-powered workshops.

The final section follows the ridge of a hill, the natural “balcony” of the area, offering a different perspective of the Arcadian landscape before we return to Vlachokerasia.

🔶 Why Choose This Hike

• A small group of up to 19 participants for better coordination and a more complete hiking experience.
• A hike through one of Arcadia’s most distinctive forest landscapes.
• A route alongside rivers, springs, streams and historic water channels.
• Dense woodland with a rich variety of trees and autumn vegetation.
• A combination of forest, riverside and panoramic ridge sections.
• A lesser-known hiking experience away from the most frequently visited trails.

🔶 After the Hike

After completing the route, we will have time for a meal at a local traditional taverna, where vegetarian options will also be available.

🔶 Who Can Participate

This activity is suitable exclusively for hikers with good physical fitness and previous experience on Level B hikes.

Participants must be able to hike safely for several hours over natural and occasionally uneven terrain.

🔶 Mandatory Equipment

• Hiking boots.
• Trekking poles.

🔶 Practical Information

• Date: Sunday, 25 October 2026.
• Destination: Vlachokerasia and Skiritida Forest, Arcadia, Greece.
• Meeting point: Agios Antonios Metro Station.
• Meeting time: 06:40.
• Transportation: Private coach.
• Maximum group size: 19 participants.
• After the hike: Meal at a local traditional taverna.
• Booking: Advance payment is required.

Detailed participation and payment instructions will be sent by email after booking.

🔶 What Is Included

• Transportation by private coach.
• Hiking guide fees.
• Cereal bar and Naturals juice.
• Group first-aid kit.
• Professional liability insurance.
• Iridium satellite connectivity.
• Satellite communication device.
• Activity planning, organisation and coordination.

🔶 What Is Not Included

• The meal at the taverna.
• Anything not explicitly listed in the included services.

🔶 Useful Links

Hiking Difficulty Levels: Which Route Is Right for You?

What to Pack for a Day Hike: The Ultimate Gear Guide

🔶 Technical Details