Tracks to Anavriti/ Soha/ Phaneromeni

One of the best preserved of all kalderimi (paved mule paths) winds up the side of the spectacular Maronoso Gorge from the first foothills of the Taygetus Mountains above the Laconian plain near Mystras, to the traditional village of Anavriti.

You can retrace your steps in a couple of hours to make a steady, moderate walk. Or you can wind onward, along a track through the pretty and surprisingly extensive middle hillsides (the Taygetus appear almost sheer to their summits) with lovely views, to Soha and then back down another kalderimi to Kalivia Sohas on the plain. (You will need to book a taxi back to your car.) 13km, 5hrs or so.

The springtime flowers are a joy here, as are the scrub and woodland of the slopes.You may see raptors as well as other birds.

You can also turn this into a linear walk to Mystras by turning north from Anavriti and winding along a small road to Faneromeni monastery and thence down a kalderimi to Parovi and Mystras (in 4hrs +) - or on over the hills to Zoodochou Pigis Monastery, Taygéti and Mystras for a fine 6 hrs + walk.

Delightful, interesting and hugely atmospheric walks.

Sunflower's Landscapes of the Southern Peloponnese has 30 walks, including on this walk. The Mountains of Greece - Cicerone, Tim Salmon with Michael Cullen: has a worthwhile section too. Find relevant books by using our Amazon search function:

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For more information and photos, including detailed practical information and some warnings, see our Taygetus Range and the Mani walk page.