Hiking Dimitsana and Ancient Gortyna

About The Place

Dimitsana Village and the Enchanting Surroundings in Peloponnese, Greece

Nestled in the heart of the Peloponnese peninsula, Dimitsana is a picturesque village that captures the essence of Greek culture, history, and natural beauty. This enchanting village and its nearby area offer a captivating blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and a unique cultural heritage that beckon visitors to explore its wonders.

Climate: Dimitsana, located in the mountainous region of Peloponnese, enjoys a temperate Mediterranean climate. Summers are warm and pleasant, making it an ideal destination to escape the scorching heat. Winters bring a touch of snow and chilly temperatures, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for experiencing the local traditions.

Culture: The culture of Dimitsana is deeply rooted in Greek traditions. The village is known for its vibrant festivals, where locals celebrate their heritage with music, dance, and traditional foods. The Dimitsana Folklore Museum offers a window into the past, showcasing the tools and crafts of the area, while the Open-Air Water Power Museum reveals the unique water-powered technology that once defined the village’s industry.

Landscape: The landscape around Dimitsana is nothing short of breathtaking. Nestled within the Lousios Gorge, the village is surrounded by lush forests, imposing cliffs, and the gentle flow of the Lousios River. The pristine nature is perfect for hiking and exploring, with well-maintained trails leading to ancient monasteries, natural springs, and panoramic viewpoints. Don’t miss the chance to hike to Prodromos and Philosophou monasteries, perched on the cliffs above the gorge.

Villages: Dimitsana’s charm extends to nearby villages like Stemnitsa and Vytina. Stemnitsa is a well-preserved gem known for its silversmithing tradition and cobbled streets. Vytina, on the other hand, offers a more cosmopolitan atmosphere with its boutique shops and bustling town square. Exploring these neighboring villages allows for a deeper understanding of the region’s diversity and character.

History: Dimitsana is steeped in history. It played a pivotal role in the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire and was a hub for the production of gunpowder during that time. The area is dotted with old mansions and churches, each with its own historical significance. The Monastery of Aimyalon, founded in the 10th century, is a testament to the region’s spiritual past. Dimitsana’s rich history is further encapsulated in its local architecture, with stone-built houses and narrow alleys that transport visitors back in time.

In conclusion, Dimitsana and its surrounding area in Peloponnese, Greece, is a destination that offers an enticing blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The climate, deeply ingrained culture, stunning landscape, neighboring villages, and historical significance all combine to make Dimitsana an unforgettable and enriching experience for any traveler. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Dimitsana has something to offer every type of visitor.

Total Duration

• 5 hours

Full description

Difficulty Level : Easy

The hiking path heading to the ancient town of Gortys starts from the open-air Water Power museum which projects pre-industrial techniques that use water as the main source of power for the production of several products.

After the visit to the museum, the guests can continue their tour to Lousios gorge following the route which leads to the traditional bridge of Monoporis. This bridge connects the east side of the gorge with the west, where it is built the new monastery of Philosopher. The monastery was founded in the middle of the 17th century, it owns a remarkable wooden-sculptured icon screen, and the murals decorating the temple are of Cretan technique and are credited to painter Victor.

A short distance from Philosophou’s new monastery, there is the Old monastery of Philosopher. A narrow path with carved steps on the rocks ends up to the complex of the old monastery. It is the oldest monastery in Arcadia and one of the oldest Byzantine monuments in Greece. It was founded in 963 BC by Ioannis Lampardopoulos from Dimitsana, also called “philosopher”, who was the secretary of the emperor Nikiforos Fokas.

The route goes on with one more monastery visit, the monastery of Saint Prodromos. The monastery was founded in the 12th century BC by the monks who lived in nearby recluse places. The monastery is built in the cavity of a cliff, causing awe to the visitor-pilgrimage. From the balcony, the visitors can enjoy the magical view of the Lousios gorge.

The last stop of our route is the archaeological site of Ancient Gortynos which is located at the exit of the gorge. The ruins from the advanced, for that period, of bathing and healing facilities, the so-called “Asklipia” of the 4th-3rd centuries BC, continue to draw the visitors’ amazement, in an exquisite place that combines the beauty and the tranquility by the river Lousios.

Route Description

• Start and finish: Dimitsana- Ancient Gortys
• Max altitude:950m
• Min altitude: 480m

General information:

• In case the participants wish to travel by their own means, let us know.
• In case of bad weather conditions or other causes beyond our own responsibility, we reserve the right to modify or postpone the outdoor activity.

What to Bring

• Water (at least 1,5lt)

• Snacks (fruit, nuts etc)

• Hiking /Mountaineering shoes (basic condition)

• Hat

• Raincoat/windproof jacket

• Rucksack

• Baton

• Appropriate clothing

Includes

• Mountain guide

• Batons

• Insurance

• All Taxes

• Transport

Limitations

• Minimum 10 years
• Spoken Language : English, Greek

Itinerary

• Starting Time 9:30
• Ending Time 14:30

Meeting point

Cancellation Policy - Flexible

• Whenever you cancel 4 days or earlier than the confirmed activity starting date, your fee will be refunded for the entire activity charge.
• In case of cancellation within 48 and 96 hours before the scheduled activity starting date, you'll get 50% reimbursed.
• Those who cancel 48 hours or beyond are considered last-minute cancellations. There will be no refunds