North Pelion

Pouri-Makrinitsa via the Pourianos Stavros summit

The hiking route Pouri – Makrinitsa crosses the highest peak of Pelion, known as Pourianos Stavros. The route is the shortest but the most difficult among the four connections between Makrinitsa and the remote settlement of Pouri.

Set off from the town square of Pouri early in the morning aiming to Makrinitsa. At the beginning, follow the alleys of the settlement, until the end of the village.

Then, cross a field where chestnut trees are cultivated. Go steadily uphill on the dirt road and finally pass in front of the Profitis Ilias chapel. Very soon, cross another well-maintained chestnut plantation and continue across apple orchards. Next, the trail goes through a natural chestnut forest, following the red marks on the trees. Pass by the chapel of Agia Marina and follow the concrete ditch.

Enter soon a majestic beech forest, following the well-indicated trail. Eventually, the year followin a severe winterd, the path could be interrupted in many locations by fallen trees. On some plaes, the heaped foliage along the trail blocks the line of vision and thus one might face difficulties to detect the marks. However, the signage with red marks on the trees is rather consistent and follwing the route is safe. Leave the forest in order to follow a dirt road and then walk behind the military base. Mt Pelion high summit - Pourianos Stavros - is in the middle of the fenced military area and thus practically inaccessible. Continue on a long dirt road which heading to Makrinitsa up to the beginning of another trail section. This is a dense marked trail with red and white colours, due to the signage of the local trail running race, Ultra Trail Pelion. Walk mainly on a cobbled path, partially damaged but still visible. Gradually, get closer to Makrinitsa and walk steadily uphill. At this part the stone-paved path, crossing the beautiful Mediterranean landscape, is in better condition.

Text and photos: T. Adamakopoulos