Hiking Menalon & Lousios gorge

The Lousios Gorge, nestled at the west slopes of Menalon mountain in the heart of the Peloponnese is a natural marvel steeped in history and beauty. This rugged canyon, through which the Lousios River flows, is famed for its wild landscapes, ancient monasteries perched precariously on its cliffs, and the rich biodiversity that thrives within its depths. Our hike here is a passage through time. From the cliff-hanging Prodromou Monastery to the ancient and new Philosophou monasteries, every step is a story etched into the stone.

Meet your guides at the new Philosophou monastery and get briefed about the hiking trip. Start venturing into the Lousios Gorge, to the venerable old Philosophou Monastery, founded in 963 AD, nestled in the serene expanse of the forest. This monastery stands as one of the oldest Byzantine monuments in Greece, offering stunning views of the gorge below. Venturing deeper into Lousios Gorge, the path reveals ancient hermitages, ancient mills, and natural springs, crossing the majestic Lousios River where, according to legend, the god Zeus was bathed as an infant. The hike includes a visit to the Prodromou or St. John the Baptist Monastery, an architectural jewel of Greek Orthodox design, precariously situated on the edge of a cliff and dating back to the 16th century, showcasing historical fortitude and spiritual serenity. A significant rest is taken midway to enjoy a delightful homemade snack. The trail takes you to the Ancient Gortys a city erected beside the river, linked with Asclepius, the god of healing. The site highlights its importance as a sanctuary of health and well-being in ancient times. Here is the end of our hike. You may not miss the chance to heal your feed into the cold waters of the river before our guide drives you back to the starting point.

• Meeting time: 9:30 a.m.
• Meeting point: New Moni, Panagias Filosofou.
• Duration: 4 hours including breaks
• Difficulty: Easy, some challenging parts
• Suitability: Family friendly, Group friendly, Couples, Seniors, Youth, Kids over 10 years old