2-Day Hiking Adventure in the Agrafa Mountains and Lake Plastira

The Agrafa Mountains, with their imposing pine forests, rugged mountain peaks, and captivating alpine landscapes, offer a unique destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The region is perfectly complemented by the stunning Lake Plastira, which provides tranquil views and moments of serenity. This two-day getaway combines the adventure of hiking with the enjoyment of nature, offering unforgettable experiences.

During the trip, we will visit the welcoming Agrafa refuge located at an altitude of 1,550 meters in the Karamanoli area. From there, the view of Templa peak is unparalleled, and the traditional meals at the refuge will add warmth and relaxation to our stay.

On the first day, our hike will begin from the village of Neráida (1,150 meters) as we follow a magical trail through the forest to reach the refuge. The 400-meter ascent spans approximately 5 kilometers and offers unique views of pristine nature. On the second day, weather permitting, we will attempt an ascent near the summit of Templa, a 2-kilometer trail that takes about an hour to complete and provides breathtaking views of the mountainous landscape.

If the weather conditions are not favorable, there will be an alternative hiking route, ensuring that all participants can safely enjoy the experience. After returning to the village of Neráida, we will head to the picturesque village of Kalyvia Pezoulas by Lake Plastira, where we will have time to relax and explore the area.

Highlights

• Hiking in Agrafa: Discover the stunning alpine landscapes and pristine trails of Pindos.
• Stay at the Mountain Refuge: Warm hospitality, traditional meals, and breathtaking views.
• Visit Lake Plastira: Relax by the lake and explore the picturesque village of Kalyvia Pezoulas.

Activities / Schedule

Day 1: Neráida 1200m - Agrafa refuge 1550m.

The day begins early, with departure from Thessaloniki at 7:00 a.m. and a drive to the picturesque village of Neráida, where we will arrive around 11:00 a.m. Our hike starts from the village, located at an altitude of 1,150 meters, following a trail through a dense fir forest that leads to the Agrafa Refuge in the Karamanoli area, at an altitude of 1,550 meters. The route, which is 5 kilometers long, includes an ascent of 400 meters and takes approximately 2-3 hours.

Upon arriving at the refuge at 2:00 p.m., we will have time to rest and explore the surrounding area. The view towards the Templa summit is breathtaking, and the warm environment, along with the traditional meals offered, creates a unique sense of relaxation and hospitality. The overnight stay at the refuge completes the first day, with the impressions of nature accompanying us.

• Total distance: 5 km
• Total ascent: +400 meters
• Hiking time: 2-3 hours

Day 2: Templa summit - Kalyvia Pezoulas

The day begins with breakfast at 7:30 a.m., followed by the ascent to the Templa summit area at 8:00 a.m. The route, which is 2 kilometers long, takes approximately one hour and offers stunning views of the alpine landscape of Agrafa. We will return to the refuge around 10:00 a.m., where we will have some time to rest and prepare for the descent.

At 10:30 a.m., we will begin our return to the village of Neráida, covering the same 5 kilometers, but this time descending 400 meters. The route will take about 2 hours, and we will reach the village by 12:30 p.m., where the bus will be waiting for us. After a full day of adventure, we will have free time in the beautiful village of Kalyvia Pezoulas, located by Lake Plastira, for relaxation and sightseeing.

The excursion will conclude with our departure from Lake Plastira at 3:00 p.m. and return to Thessaloniki, filled with unforgettable images and experiences from the Agrafa mountains.

• Total distance: 7 km (2 km for the ascent and 5 km from the refuge to the village of Neráida)
• Total ascent: +100 meters for the ascent, -400 meters from the refuge to the village of Neráida
• Hiking time: 3 hours

Price: 150€/person 

Accommodation: Agrafa Refuge

The Agrafa Mountain Refuge is located at an altitude of 1,536 meters, in the "Karamánoli" area of Neráida, Municipality of Lake Plastira (formerly the Municipality of Nevropoli Agrafon), Karditsa Prefecture. This stone building, with two floors, was constructed through the operational program "Tourism – Culture" of the Greek Tourism Organization (EOT). The refuge offers stunning views of Lake Plastira and serves as the starting point for most of the hiking routes in the Agrafa mountain range. It provides basic amenities including central heating, a fireplace, bunk beds, blankets, a kitchen, toilet facilities, and food preparation areas. It also features a comfortable dining area and can accommodate up to 24 people. The refuge is approximately 6 kilometers from Neráida.