Panta Vrehi and Mavri Spilia are two magical canyons in Evritania. Panta Vrehi – it means always raining- is renowned for its running rivers and waterfalls, but Mavri Spilia – black cave- is less well known, though it too has unique features and history.

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Mavri Spilia is two kilometres from the village Proussos in Karpenisi, where the monastery of Panagia Proussiotissa is found. Nearby is one of the most impressive canyons in Greece, ideal for visitors to Panagia Proussiotissa and for nature lovers, climbers and hikers.

A marked trail that starts at the monastery and takes an hour and fifteen minutes to complete leads to the cave. Alternatively, for a shorter, easier hike suitable for beginners, you can start at the village. The trail starts at the stone fountain next to the Proussos-Tornos bridge. There is parking lot there, next to the Stremmenos delicatessen; leave the car there and continue on foot.

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Photo: Shutterstock
Photo: Shutterstock

The path starts at Proussos village and heads towards Tornos and has red markings to help hikers. It takes about half an hour to complete the uphill trail. The last part requires a little extra care but beware of wet rocks throughout the trail as they can be slippery. The route crosses wooden bridges surrounded by rich green fir forests, and there is water everywhere, with two waterfalls and lakes where you can swim. One of the waterfalls, that tumbles into a a natural pool, is over 10 m. tall.

At the cave entrance, imposing cliffs loom over freshwater pools straddled by wooden walkways. Plane trees and weeping willows thrive in the damp conditions, helping to protect the cave from the weather as well as from unfriendly eyes, and so locals and freedom fighters during the Ottoman rule and the Second World War came here to hide, taking refuge behind a stone-built gate, almost thirty metres wide, that is now lies half in ruins.

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Photo: Shutterstock
Mavri Spilia in Evritania/ Photo: Shutterstock

Mavri Spilia also has a surprise in store – there is a via ferrata path, one of a few of its kind in Greece. It is a climbing route on the steep rock face, equipped with iron steps and climbing wires. The path from Proussos is mostly accessible, but the via ferrata is much more challenging. Beginners must be accompanied by an experienced guide while special equipment is necessary for all climbers.

For those who have completed the trail to the cave and back to Proussos, there are two taverns with good food and a view of the canyon and the monastery. After a meal, relax in the stone square under the plane tree with a cup of coffee, glad to have enjoyed the natural attractions.

Read also:

A road trip to the semi-mountainous Agrafa – A different journey to a magical place

Wandering around the fairytale villages of Evritania, Central Greece

Road trip to the Stunning Lake Kremasta in Mountainous Central Greece