It is no exaggeration to say that Panta Vrehei is one of the country’s most impressive water attractions. The name means ‘always rains’, a result of the constant spray of water endured during this spectacular adventure.
The location is often referred to as the Panta Vrehei waterfalls, which is inaccurate. The spectacular waterfalls actually make up only part of a gorge, approximately 80 metres long, running through the wild of Evrytania’s south. It is crossed by the Krikelopotamos river, running between the Kaliakouda and Platanaki mountains.
Panta Vrehei is a far wider landscape that combines mountain beauty with water elements. Observant visitors will notice that trout and Eurasian river otters exist at Panta Vrehei, as does rare flora, such as Lilium Heildrechii within this micro-ecosystem.
Panta Vrehei is situated between the villages of Roska and Stournara (also known as Doliana), and the route leading to the area is a little adventurous. Visitors will need a vehicle, but that will only reach up to a certain point. The remainder of the route all the way to the waterfalls, a roughly 2.5-km distance passing through the brownish-green waters of the Krikelopotamos river, must be covered on foot. Expect this latter section to take you between 25 and 40 minutes to cover, depending on your speed as well as the strength of the water flow, which can be waist-high for adults. Also be especially careful with the stones as they are very slippery; those outside of the water and covered with moss are particularly dangerous.
LEZANTES
The river crossing explains why access to the Panta Vrehei waterfalls is limited to four months per year, from June through September. During the rest of the year, the Krikelopotamos river’s higher water levels make this stream impossible to walk through in order to reach the waterfalls.
It goes without saying that nobody should ever attempt to visit the area during adverse weather conditions. Also, visitors will need to wear mountain hiking boots when crossing through the river and carry a waterproof bagpack with a pair of running shoes, to be worn once out of the river, a change of clothing, a swimsuit, a towel, drinking water, a snack, a first aid kit (if you do not have your own, consult the hotel where you will be staying), as well as sunscreen, as the route is only shaded towards the end.
Upon reaching Panta Vrehei’s renowned waterfall area, the wonder of nature is truly impressive. The clear waters fall from the steep southern ridges of the Kaliakouda mountain towards the Krikelopotamos river. The water here descends from a tremendous height, which disrupts its solid flow, spraying water across a large area. The extensive growth, over time, of moss and other greenery on the eroded limestone surfaces of the gorge also contribute to the cascading water’s diffusion.
This creates the impression of a constant drizzle, a unique setting which, from a distance, looks like a curtain of water. It is even more special if the sunrays between the foliage and small streams create rainbows.
Given the fact that reaching Panta Vrehei is only possible in the summer, visitors will notice that the area remains cool even during the hottest hours of summer days. The river is also ideal for canoeing, kayaking and rafting or visitors can just swim in the natural pools at the bottom of the waterfalls. The waters here are considered to be among Europe’s purest.
How to get there
The approach to Panta Vrehei is no simple matter. Beginning from Karpenisi, three alternative roads are available, the choice depending on the type or vehicle you will be using. If it is a 4×4, head towards Stournara (Doliana), via Megalo Horio. This is the shortest route, but it is not recommended if your vehicle cannot handle rugged conditions.
There is also a longer yet easier route via Domnista, which reaches Roska. Conventional vehicles may encounter some trouble at the forest area roads. A third alternative entails reaching Roska via Prousou, along a dirt road. In recent years, parts of this road have been layered with tarmac. Either way, once reaching the Krikelopotamos riverbed, at the point with the arched bridge, you will need to leave your vehicle behind and begin trekking through the water.
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