Ziria (Κyllini)

Megali and Mikri Ziria mountains give you a chance to see another side of Greece, far from the beaches and the cities. You can go hiking along good paths, learn about the unique ecosystem, maybe go skiing in winter, stay in one of the mountain refuges, or visit Hermes’ Cave and the Skafidia plateau where you might be lucky enough to see the famous semi-wild horses. Whenever you go, you’ll be enchanted by the landscape and the wildlife.

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Ziria gives you a chance to see another side of Greece, far from the beaches and the cities. It has good paths, a unique ecosystem and is the sources of the Sythas river and Dasiou Lake. You can visit the Vlasios monastery, the mysterious Hermes’ Cave, or the Skafidia plateau where you can see the famous semi-wild horses. As if that wasn’t enough, there is also a ski resort and two mountain refuges. All in all it’s an irresistible destination, and of course you can also enjoy exploring the surrounding villages and all the sights of mountainous Corinthia.

Ziria is the second highest mountain on the NW edge of the Peloponnese, and is split into Megali Ziria (2,374 m) and Mikri Ziria (2,117 m) by the Flambouritsa ravine.

Mikri Ziria is in the North East which means the snow lies on the peak for many months of the year. Megali Ziria is to the west, and from its highest peak you can see all the way to Mount Taygetos and Mount Olympus! There are also two refuges on the mountain.

The peaks of Ziria and the Flambouritsa valley that divides them have been included in the Natura 2000 network. There are 100 species of plants growing in the area and the Flambouritsa valley gives shelter to a significant number of sensitive species.

Hermes’ Cave is to the west of Flambouritsa, at an altitude of 1,700. There is a path to the cave, but it is not recommended for the inexperienced and is only possible with special equipment. The cave itself is cavernous and has a series of chambers decorated by spectacular, colourful stalactites. Mythology tells that the messenger god’s mother, Maia, gave birth to him here in the mountainside cave. 

At Megali Ziria, 1,480 m, the shallow Dasiou Lake appears from time to time, depending on snowfall or rainfall. When it freezes over, it acts as a mirror and reflects the beautiful landscape that surrounds it.

From Goura you can go up to the Skafidia plateau (1400 m.) - which in the spring is full of wild flowers. You will see the shepherds from Feneos bringing their flocks, and if you're lucky, you might even spot some of the semi-wild horses.

Activities
Hikers love Ziria. Many prefer to come in the spring, after the snow has melted, or in the autumn when the trees are at their best. Many, however, come in winter for the mountaineering and skiing.

There is an extensive network of well marked trails on Megali and Mikri Ziria, with most routes being on Megali Ziria.

A good starting point is Trikala in Corinthia. From there you can walk towards the Plateau, then choose to either head to Flambouritsa, or go on to climb the highest peak of the mountain. Goura and Steno are also starting points for treks on the mountain. These trails will lead you across the Skafidia plateau, and end on the summit.

Most trails on Mikri Ziria begin from Kefalari or Kyllini.

If you fancy something a bit different, some companies based in Trikala, Corinthia, organize guided horseback excursions on the mountains.

You can also go mountain biking, try your hand at archery or go off-roading with your own vehicle, or with a rented ATV.

The ski centre
Near Trikala, at an altitude of 1,550m, there is a small ski centre with impressive views of Megali and Mikri Ziria Mountains. It is ideal for beginners and families with children who don’t have any skiing experience as it has a 150 m beginner run with a baby lift and a second a 400 m run with a baby lift. It opened in 2007 and is one of the newest ski centres in Greece. There are instructors and you can also rent ski and snowboard equipment. https://www.ziriaski.gr

Did you know that

Since 2009, and weather permitting, the three-day Ziria Music Festival (https://www.ziriafestival.gr) has taken place at the end of August.  It is popular with Greek bands and as the organisers in the Sytha Cultural Association say, its aim is "to promote music and the arts, the environment and the collective life". Entry is free and camping is allowed. Then there is also an οrganised descent to Hermes’ Cave.

Location

Find the destination on the interactive map below.