The long summer of persisting heatwave conditions is – hopefully – over, making the period’s milder temperatures ideal for September weekend trekking at destinations close to Athens.
If the trek is combined with a significant bonus feature, in this case a technological achievement of the past, then the experience gains further appeal. The trek through the Vouraikos gorge in the northern Peloponnese features an old rack railway line linking Diakofto with Kalvryta, a pioneering project completed 125 years ago.
Its development required engineers to overcome challenges concerning ground stability and steepness, which is why a rack railway system was chosen for the line. This system enables trains fitted with special cog wheels to cling on to the rack railway line at sections that are steep. Also, the Diakofto-Kalavryta tracks, 75 centimetres apart, make it one of the world’s narrowest train lines.
Nowadays, the Diakofto-Kalavryta rack railway line no longer serves its initial purpose as a crucial transportation link, but, instead, offers additional tourism appeal to an area that is, regardless of this old train-line feature, particularly impressive.
Bridges needed to be constructed and tunnels had to be dug out of slopes for the project’s needs. Craftsmen and workers of the era used wood and stone to construct various aspects of the overall train line project. They harmoniously blend with the environment, making the project seem like an integral part of the nature.
Gorge and train
The Diakofto-Kalavryta rack railway line, running through the Vouraikos gorge, ideally combines a retro train ride with trekking through the area’s amazing nature.
The Vouraikos gorge and river reference Voura, a prominent ancient city that played a leading role in the establishment of the Achaean League, a Hellenistic-era confederation of Greek city states in the northern and central Peloponnese. The impressive ravine, carved out by the river, runs for approximately 20 kilometres. Imposing slopes, rushing waterfalls, impressive caves and rich alternating vegetation all combine to create a fascinating natural setting.
The trail through the Vouraikos gorge runs alongside the rack railway line, which has been described as the most spectacular train route of the Balkan region. The trail, signposted with E4 signs, integrating it as part of a Pan-European route, was once a key passage for residents of the wider area.
“A satisfactory fitness level is enough for one to cross this gorge,” noted Yiannis Houliaras, owner of Trekking Hellas Achaia, which organises treks through the Vouraikos gorge. “The route we offer, from Zahlorou to Niamata, is approximately 15 kilometres long and covers the most impressive section of the overall 22-kilometre stretch. Over these 15 kilometres, requiring roughly four hours to cover, trekkers will see rich, alternating vegetation, caves with stalagmites and stalactites, as well as waterfalls,” he added.
Rare birds of prey, including the griffon vulture and peregrine falcon, nest here, while the area also serves as habitat for a small number of golden eagles and Bonelli’s eagles. Short-toed snake eagles maintain nests at remote mountain slope trees and feed on snakes and lizards. An abundance of both exists in the area. Water snakes, numerous frogs, trout and other fish live at the river. These are all prey for otters, an endangered carnivorous mammal species also existing in the area, in dwindling numbers. “Unfortunately, it is quite difficult to find some of these species. Their numbers are shrinking at an increasing rate,” explained Yiannis Nikolaou, a resident of the area who has crossed the gorge many times.
Houliaras, the head of Trekking Hellas Achaia, pointed out: “Even if you don’t find otters, the route is definitely worth your attention. It’s not just the nature, but also the lovely tunnel passages and bridges.”
Reiterating, nature and the human additions have combined superbly to create a masterpiece setting. While covering the gorge, trekkers will often encounter the little train running along the parallel rack railway line. Make sure you are fully informed on the train’s schedule in order to prevent simultaneous crossings through tunnels or over bridges. The trail is ideal for picnic stopovers amid the lovely nature.
The trail is open throughout the year, except during extreme weather conditions. On the second Sunday of every May, the annual Vouraikos gorge crossing is held, attracting hundreds of participants, mountaineers and trekkers, from all over Greece and abroad. Crossing the entire Vouraikos gorge requires approximately six hours. As expected, most trekkers prefer covering the gorge in a downhill direction as the opposite way features steep uphill stretches. The trek and train, whatever combination or direction you choose, promise an unforgettable experience well worth considering for one of your next excursions.
Necessary and useful accessories
- Mountain climbing footwear for steady footing and accident prevention.
- Pair of trekking poles to ease the pressure on the knees (optional)
- Backpack with all necessary items, including food, water and clothing.
- Camera (optional)
- Dress in accordance with the weather. If not raining, waterproof gear is not needed as the trail does not intercept the water.
Extra tips
If, at some point along the trail, you start feeling weary, continue no further than the next train station and catch the train. It is equally impressive, and less tiring!
Tickets for the Diakofto-Kalavryta train may be booked online. Advance bookings are recommended as tickets are in high demand, especially on weekends and during morning hours.
To organise your trek, contact:
Where to stay
For train schedule and tickets
