Menalon Trail
Valtesiniko-Lagadia

From Valtesiniko square, pass by the impressive stone built school and access the upper peripheral road of the village, from here the view overlooks all the northern plains. Gain altitude from the footpath and the cement road until 1250 meters, where the footpath becomes clearer and runs along the ridge where the byzantine fortress Kastro Valtesinikou is nested. Descend to the small country church St. Triada through open landscapes and stunning views.

The next part of the route traverses an extensive fir forest through a series of artificially widened paths. After a short detour for the spring at the location Grias to Lithari, gain some altitude before going down again near Kria Vrisi spring, an important fountain near a (usually closed) restaurant-BnB. From here the path ascends smoothly to the saddle and asphalt road. Follow the small forest road though a wooded ridge to the place name Elatakos. Go through the open gate to the great Grilas meadow, and find walnut trees, threshing floors and huts. On the western edge of this zone (the place in known as Draina Panorama) you’ll see Lagkadia and lose altitude following a winding course through the smoother valleys. Pass by the small Koubliza Spring, take a dirt road and leave it heading for the impressive complex of Rapi Watermills. Now enter Lagkadia and conclude the Menalon Trail to the war memorial through a combination of footpaths. Lagadia (the village of the stone builders) offer every accommodation and facility.

Text and photos by T. Adamakopoulos