Self guided walking itinerary

Day 1: arrive, transfer from Kalamata airport/ coach station to private apartment.

Day 2: Walk from Kambos village to Kardamyli.

Leave Kambos on kalderimi past the castle of Zarnata and the village of Stavropigio through olive groves to climb to the church of Aghios Giorgios, from where you will have a fantastic view of the Messinian gulf and the municipality of Avia and the mountains beyond. Down from the church via another kalderimi and onto a rural track up to another viewpoint and then down into the seaside village of Kardamyli where you can enjoy a swim whilst you await to be collected.

Approx 5 hours, medium walking. 11 km

Day 3: Walk from Kato Doloi to Sotirianaka.

Leaving the village of Kato Doloi along kalderimi, taking in views of Zaravas tower house and proceeding to Kambos and Orova. Pass the deserted settlement of Toubia, proceeding down to the gorge and out again on the other side. Stop at the ancient settlement of Marvinitsa and its ancient monastery before proceeding on to Sotirianaka to await collection.

Approx 4 1/2 hours, medium walking 9km

Day 4: Walk from Sotirianaka to Altomira.

Transport to village of Sotirianaka, before ascending an ancient highway and a rural track through forest to the deserted village of Altomira. Excellent views and opportunities for taking photographs. Await pick up at Altomira or Sotirianaka.

Approx 6 hours, medium walking 13 km

Day 5: Spring and well walk from Kato Doloi to Kitries

From Kato Doloi follow ancient tracks and walkways past ancient springs and wells down to the harbour of Kitries where you are recommended to lunch in one of the local fish restaurants. Return by way of rural track.

Approx 5 hours (depending on lunch), easy walking 10 km

Day 6: From the village of Vorio, circular route.

Transport to the village of Vorio and then follow a rural track into the heart of the foothills of Taygetos, with excellent scenery. Down to the gorge and then to the ancient double bridge that leads to the village of Pigadhia; then up from the gorge by way of kalderimi and to the rural footpath that takes you back to Vorio.

Approx 8 hours easy walking on tracks, med/hard in the gorge 16 km

Day 7: Trip to ancient Messini or further walk if required.

Day 8: Transfer to Kalamata airport/ bus station

Spectacular mountain and coastal views, castles, monasteries and excellent traditional Greek food and wines.

To make a booking or for further information contact us on

Mob 00306975229460

Email allaboutavia@hotmail.co.uk

GETTING THERE

FLIGHTS: To Athens - everyday

               To Kalamata – every Sunday May until late October

WHAT TO TAKE
Sturdy walking boots and walking socks (with a change of socks inrucksack), day pack, swimming costume, towel, insect repellent, sunglasses, sun hat, sun block/cream; torch; small first-aid kit. Lightwaterproof jacket, light fleece or warm jumper; comfortable walkingclothes plus long-sleeved cotton shirt; casual, light clothes for theevenings.

WHEN TO GO

Any day April to October. July and August not recommended due to the heat.

INSURANCE

We recommend that you take out appropriate holiday insurance covering you against illness, injury, and loss or damage to luggage. This insurance should also cover the possibility of your having to cancel your holiday for any reason.