In the ruined villages: Monastery of Iperagia Theotokos Thematon Pilarou - Palaia Vlahata - Palaia Poulata - Karavomilos The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: linear Route’s duration: 3 hours Route’s length: 9,200 metres Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: All seasons, if weather conditions permit it. During summer, you should avoid midday hours. The route The trail starts from the Monastery of the Iperagia Theotokos Thematon Pylarou, or more simply from Themata. From this place, apart from the proposed route (which is not signposted), there are other routes, known as the 'hiking routes of Mount Agia Dynati'.  From the well-kept and lush area of the monastery, with its magnificent view, we go downhill on the asphalt road and after about 900 metres we turn east on the downhill dirt road. The landscape is rocky, with olive trees and other types of low vegetation, and the view is always magnificent. In a short while (about 1200 metres from the start of the dirt road) we come across the stream "Vathi Avlaki", the crossing of which is not challenging, because most days of the year there is no water. We continue our way downhill in the same area, enjoying the special nature and the view to the strait of Kefalonia - Ithaca. The dirt road does not present any difficulties in crossing it and although the shady places are not enough, they do exist. Along the way, we will also come across many farming activities. When we approach the abandoned and ruined settlement of the Palia Vlachata, at the junction with another dirt road, we follow the southern direction (on our right as we descend) and we reach the old square of the settlement, where a tour of the ruined buildings is considered essential, since, apart from their architectural value, they take us back in time. After Palia Vlahata, we continue our southern route along the dirt road (ignoring the asphalt road) to Palia Latavinata, another abandoned and ruined settlement. To the west and on the mountain above, there is the geological phenomenon of "Lakovitsa", but it is not visible from our route. A deviation and a short climb is required to observe it. From Latavinata, we change direction to the east, towards Karavomilos, avoiding once again the asphalt road and we continue along the dirt road, where after about a kilometre, we find ourselves on the outskirts of the settlement. Through the streets of the settlement we continue our way, until we reach the famous and particularly beautiful lake cave of Melissani. After the visit to the lake cave, we continue our way to the beach and the beautiful lake of Karavomilos, which marks the end of the route. The duration of the path is about three hours, not counting stops - visiting the various sights of the route (Palia Vlachata, the lake cave, etc.). As a linear route it can also be done from the reverse of the proposed direction, but this is not recommended, because in this case the route is continuously uphill and therefore tiring. It should also be noted that the areas through which this route passes have a number of other interesting places to visit, such as the ruined settlements of the Palia Tarkasata and Livathinata, the restored settlements of Drakopoulata and Poulata, as well as other particularly interesting geological phenomena, such as the Drogkarati cave, the caves of Aggelaki, Agii Theodoroi and Agia Eleousa, the Zervati cave in the settlement of Karavomilos, etc.  Due to the special character of the route (a continuous downhill route) and its relatively long length (more than nine kilometres), it is recommended that the walker should have a means of transport at Karavomilos, because as it has already been mentioned, the return to the start of the route (Themata) will be tiring, especially if the walker has visited the other sights of the area. In Kefalonia there are Health Centres in Sami and Hospitals in Argostoli and Lixouri. There are also police services in Fiskardo, Sami, Poros, Lixouri and Argostoli. Citizen Service Centres are in Argostoli, Livathou, Poros and in Agia Efthimia. Monastery of Iperagia Theotokos Thematon Pylarou The Monastery of Themata is built on the slope of Agia Dynati, near Makriotika in the province of Pylaros. It is an ancient monastery, probably of the 9th or 10th century, built in a magnificent location, in a forest of holly trees, with a wonderful view of Ithaca and the Ionian Sea. It owes its name to the leader of the Byzantine "Thema" of Kefallinia (local governor of the island), who had his headquarters in the area. Throughout the existence of the Thema of Kefallinia, the monastery played an important administrative and spiritual role. In later years, the passage and teaching of Cosmas Etolos in the monastery in 1777 is memorable. In 1953, the monastery was destroyed by the devastating earthquakes that struck the island. The carved wooden iconostasis, some icons and manuscripts were saved. In the period 1970-1974 the monastery was rebuilt from the ground up. The miraculous and ancient (12th century) icon of the Virgin Mary is solemnly celebrated on Easter Tuesday (Panagia Portaitissa of Agio Oros) and on the 15th of August (Kimisis tis Theotokou) with widespread participation. Palaia Vlachata Palia Vlachata is a village of Kefalonia that was inhabited before the 17th century, but unfortunately it was destroyed by the earthquake of 1953 and its inhabitants were transferred to the present-day Karavomilos. During its prosperity, it had 800 inhabitants, of all social classes, nobles, merchants, farmers (villans) and fishermen (buranelles). In the village there were three churches, schools, shops and three olive mills. A point of reference for the local community was the saristra, the central square of the settlement, which hosted the festival of Zoodochos Pigi, as well as dances and carnival masquerades. Today, all that remains are half-ruined buildings, old cisterns and winding dirt streets, often covered by over-aged olive, wisteria and pomegranate trees. One of the buildings, the biggest part of which has managed to remain standing, is the church of Agios Ioannis tou Prodromou (Saint John the Baptist). The church, built in 1871, has paintings on the inside and parts of the floor, recesses where the chalice and the icon of the saint were placed, are still visible. In the ruins of the old village, every summer, the three-day festival SARISTRA takes place with music, art, cinema and many parallel activities. The festival is very popular and attracts many visitors from every corner of the island. Unfortunately, the festival has been cancelled in recent years due to the pandemic. Karavomylos (and its lake) Karavomylos is a picturesque fishing village located west of Sami and 2 km from its port. What characterizes and gives Karavomylos a special character is an underwater spring of a large supply of brackish water. The spring is of great geological and biological interest. It is one of the most important springs of the wider network of the area and it is connected through an underground system with the sinkholes of Argostoli. The spring has been isolated by a wall from the sea, creating an artificial lake. This lake is almost circular, with brackish water gushing out of the bottom and ending up in the neighbouring sea, in the bay of Sami. The diameter of the lake is 50 m, it is about 1 m deep and its bottom is covered with seaweed and mud. The settlement of Karavomylos, and therefore the spring and the lake, took their name from a watermill that operated there, using an iron ship's wheel. Water mills were already operating in the area since the 19th century, using the waters of the spring. The village is an attraction for visitors to the island, as some of the most famous and beautiful natural attractions of Kefalonia are located within walking distance. These are the cave of Drogarati and the lake of Melissani. Melissani Lake Cave The Melissani Lake Cave is located 2 km northwest of Sami, in Karavomylos. It was discovered in 1951 by the caveologist Giannis Petrochilos. It takes its name either from the myth of the nymph Melissani who committed suicide here because the god Pan refused her, or from the tradition that the shepherdess Melissanthi was killed by falling into the lake while chasing one of her sheep. In the middle of the lake there is a small island on which worship objects of the god Pan have been found, proving that the place was already sacred in prehistoric times. The natural entrance to the cave is vertical (40 x 50 m) and was created by the fall of part of the roof, probably due to an earthquake. The lake is 20 m below ground level, about 160 m long and between 10 and 40 m deep. Stalactites dating back 20 000 years, with strange shapes, decorate most of the cave.  The Melissani Lake Cave can be visited from an artificial entrance, which leads through an underground tunnel to its main hall. The tour is guided by boats along the entire length of the lake. The absence of a roof in the main hall allows sunlight to enter the cave and color the waters in a unique way, especially at noon.

From the Monastery to the Lighthouse: Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Niras - Lighthouse The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: linear Route’s duration: 1 hour and a half Route’s length: 4,700 meters Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: All seasons, weather permitting. In summer, avoid the midday hours, because there are no shady places along the whole section of the route. The route It is a gentle downhill - largely asphalted - route in a beautiful landscape. The route starts from the parking area of the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Iras. After visiting the monastery, where, apart from the church and other buildings, there are the unique stone beehives of the 17th century. From this point, we head west to the junction with the Provincial Road Komili - Akrotiri where we continue west. The route passes through a unique landscape of low vegetation, where to the west are the evocative rocky vertical coasts with an unobstructed view of the blue Ionian Sea, while to the west the bay of Vasiliki unfolds. In the background (south) are scattered the figures of the islands of Kefalonia, Ithaca, Atokos, Arkoudi, etc. Descending through this landscape, where apart from the lighthouse and the monastery there are no other buildings, we wonder what prompted Sappho to make her leap to this place. When we reach the viewpoint - where special attention is needed because of the steep vertical shores and loose ground - the awe that the landscape inspires in us interprets the myth. From the viewpoint, we continue on to the lighthouse that stands tall and dominates the landscape. From the lighthouse parking lot, an uphill and somewhat rough path, about 300 meters, leads us to the lighthouse site. The view from the balcony of the lighthouse is excellent towards the Ionian Sea and the rocky shores of the cape. The lighthouse marks the end of our course. The return is by the same route in the opposite direction (slightly uphill), unless the walker has arranged for a vehicle to wait for him at the lighthouse. It should be noted that there are no shady places on the route and therefore the walker must have made provision for appropriate equipment and certainly avoid doing the route at midday in summer. The route can also be done by car and is therefore suitable for disabled people, except for the last 300 metres from the car park to the lighthouse. This fact, however, does not pose an issue, because the walker has already enjoyed the endless view of the Ionian Sea and has seen the amazing steep and rocky coastline with the lighthouse. On the island of Lefkada there are: Citizen Service Centres in the town of Lefkada, in Nydri and in Vasiliki. Police Headquarters in the town of Lefkada and a Police Station in Vlyho. In addition to private health structures there are: Hospital in Lefkada Town, Health Centre in Vasiliki and Regional Medical Centre in Syvros. Monastery of Agios Nikolaos of Ira  The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos of Ira is located in southern Lefkada, quite close to Cape Lefkata. The name "Ira" (in the peninsula of "Iera Nira" or "Nira", as the locals usually call it), probably has a connection with the Sanctuary of Apollo of Lefkatas located on the cape. The construction of the Monastery is linked to the transfer of the relic of Agios Nikolaos by Crusaders. The transfer took place from Myra in Asia Minor to Bari in Italy and in 1087 the relic of the Saint passed through the area where the monastery is now located. It is said that the monastery was built there shortly afterwards, and it is reported that it was renovated in the 17th century. The monastery celebrates every year on the 10th of May to commemorate the transfer of the relic from there. In the monastery there is a remarkable iconostasis, a work of 1799, by Andreas Betzos, as well as the icon of Agios Nikolaos, a work of 1699, by Dimitrios Foskaris. In the monastery there is an old threshing floor and stone beehives for bees, as the area is well known for its thyme honey. Due to the remote location of the monastery, it is said that it was also used in the past as a place of exile for clergymen. The monastery can be visited daily during the following hours: October - April, 9:50 - 13:30 and 16:00 until sunset, May - September, 9:30 until sunset. Cape Lefkatas (or Dukaton) Lefkatas is the southernmost cape of the island of Lefkada. It is an imposing landscape of white rocks that fall steeply into the Ionian Sea and fill you with awe. At the same time it is an ancient sacred place, which is followed by mystery, myths and traditions. The original name of the cape was Lefkas. Homer mentions in the Odyssey (ω 11) the famous 'Lefkas Petri'. This is the name of the town which the Corinthians founded at the northern end of the island in the second quarter of the 7th century BC and then the whole island. From the adjective Lefkas was formed the adjective Lefkatis and in Doric Lefkatas (= the lord, or the owner of Lefkada Petris or Akras). The same name was given to Apollo, because of his sanctuary, which was located there. Few remnants of it can be seen today scattered around the lighthouse building. The sanctuary was known throughout the ancient world. Every year there were festivals of Panhellenic character, probably in early spring. In Mycenaean times it is said that they made sacrifices to appease the gods and the Spirit of Tempest. Later, they replaced the victims with convicts, but they gave them a chance of salvation. Before they were thrown into the rock, they tied birds and feathers around their bodies for a smoother landing. If the convict escaped, he was spared his life. In the 6th century BC there was a tradition that the incurably in love and frustrated jumped from the cape. It is mentioned in the verses of many ancient poets and was probably mentioned by Sappho, the great poet of antiquity. From there came the tradition that from this cape she fell into the sea and met her own death, despairing of her unfortunate love for Phaon. That is why the cape is also called "Kavos tis Kyras" (Cape of the Lady). The Lighthouse "Dukato" The lighthouse is built on the site where the temple of Apollo Lefkata used to be. It started to operate in 1890 with oil. During the 2nd World War it remained switched off and operated again in 1945, again with oil. In 1950 it was destroyed by an earthquake and operated temporarily as an automatic acetylene torch until 1956, when it was repaired. In 1986 the oil machinery was replaced and it began to run on electricity.

In Gerakas: Vassilikos - View of the marine park - Pίlos (clay) canyon - Gerakas - Vassilikos The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: circular Route’s duration: 1 hour Route’s length: 3,200 metres Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: all seasons, weather permitting. In summer, you should avoid midday hours. The route: The start of the route is from the statue of D. Roma in Vasiliko and continues westwards along the small asphalt road. After about 200 metres, the walker follows the road to the left (west-southwest). The road is slightly uphill in good condition for hiking and passes through a dense forest of cypresses, pines, etc. Along the way the road becomes dirt, where traces of the old cobblestone road can be seen. The walker reaches the viewpoint where the sea park of Zakynthos opens up in front of him, with the island of Pelouzo dominating the foreground. Then, he or she turns back at the junction and follows the road eastwards towards Gerakas beach. The road remains dirt but with many intense water features. The landscape has changed with lower vegetation and fewer shadows. Going downhill and after a while on the right (south) the imposing landscape of the canyon of Pelos opens up in front of the walker. The route continues on a mild dirt road where the walker reaches the entrance of Gerakas beach with the Environmental Centre. The route ends with the way back to the starting point (statue of D. Roma) through the main asphalt road (which is slightly uphill). The road passes through a beautiful landscape with crops and tourist facilities for the convenience of tourists, since the beach of Gerakas is very popular. The duration of the hike (not including any stops) is not more than an hour. On the island of Zakynthos there are: Citizen Service Centres in the settlements (from north to south): Alykes, Zakynthos Town, Machirado and Pantokrator. Police Station in Katastari and General Police Directorate in Zakynthos Town. A number of private clinics, medical centres and pharmacies, as well as public health structures are located in Zakynthos Town, General Hospital, and Health Centre in Kallithea. Gerakas One of the most beautiful beaches of Zakynthos is, without a doubt, Gerakas beach. It is located 18 km southeast of the town and belongs to the community of Vasilikos. It is a long sandy beach with fine golden sand and crystal clear shallow waters. At its edge there is a cape consisting of clay that gives visitors the opportunity for a thermal mud bath. On the beach of Gerakas there is also the famous canyon of Pelos with exceptional geological formations, reminiscent of Cappadocia. Pelouzo Pelouzo is an uninhabited island in the Ionian Sea in Laganas Bay on the south-eastern coast of Zakynthos. It can be seen from the bay of Gerakas as well as from Daphne beach. It is one nautical mile from the coast and is part of the Zakynthos National Marine Park, which is included in the Natura 2000 programme, as it is a nesting site for the sea turtle caretta caretta. During the summer months, navigation and fishing are prohibited. The island is beautiful, unspoilt, slightly mountainous, with dense vegetation and rocky coasts. On the side directly opposite Daphne beach there is the only beach on the island with fine, light talc-like sand and an old, half-ruined building. On the opposite side the scene changes. The coast is rocky with a beautiful cave. Pelouzo during the Venetian rule belonged to the Catholic Monastery of Agios Frangkiskos and was granted to the monk Angelos Salviatis. There, he built a monastery and a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Evangelistria. Later, Pelouzo passed to the ownership of the Komoutou family, where it still belongs today. The Monastery and the Holy Church were bombed by the Germans during World War II and then almost completely destroyed by the earthquake of 1953. Today only some ruins are preserved. Marine National Park The National Marine Park of Zakynthos was established in 1999 and includes the Laganas Bay, on the southern coast of Zakynthos and specifically the marine area that extends from Cape Marathia to the beach of Gerakas, but also Strophades, which are two islets fifty nautical miles south of Zakynthos. The area is part of the Natura 2000 network of protected areas. The National Park of Zakynthos has as its symbol the turtle. The whole protected area presents basic characteristics of the Mediterranean ecosystem, with sandy beaches, cliffs rising from dunes, while on the nearby mainland there are dense pine forests, fertile agricultural areas and areas covered with natural Mediterranean vegetation.  The National Marine Park aims to effectively protect the special fauna that exists in the southern part of the island and to integrate it into the local community. The most important animal species that are being tried to be preserved are the Caretta Caretta sea turtles and the Mediterranean monk seals Monachus Monachus. While the turtles are found throughout the park and choose the southern sandy beaches of Zakynthos for breeding, the seals are usually found in Laganas Bay, but for breeding they prefer the countless caves on the west coast of the island. Apart from the sea turtle and the monk seal, efforts are made to save other animal species in the park, such as migratory birds, phoenicopters, wild dogs and specimens of the pilgrim hornbill, reptiles and amphibians, such as frogs, turtles, iguanas and water snakes, as well as mammals such as the hedgehog and wild rabbits. In the park's sea there are also dolphins with "bottle snouts", of the species Tursiops Truncatus. During the route, the walker will encounter QR information signs at the following points: a) at the start of the route (on the asphalt road, next to the statue of Roma), b) at the first junction to the left (south - southwest), c) at the viewpoint (where the road ends above the sea), d) at the junction to Gerakas beach, e) at the viewpoint of the canyon of Pilos, f) at the start of the dirt road next to the Environmental Centre , g) in the middle of the asphalt road back

In Ancient Sami: Sami - Antisamos - Acropolis - Sami The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: circular Route’s duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes Route’s length: 8,000 metres Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: All seasons, weather conditions permitting. During summer, you should avoid midday hours. The route The route starts from the centre of Sami where we head along the coast, and after passing the harbour, we follow a north-easterly direction until we meet the asphalt road leading to the popular beach of Antisamos. We continue our slightly uphill path from the main asphalt road with a beautiful view of northern Kefalonia and the strait of Kefalonia - Ithaca, where after a beautiful and relaxing asphalt track of about three kilometers, we arrive at the point where we enjoy an uninterrupted view of the bay and the beach of Antisamos, Psili Rachi and Mytikas. From this point, we descend to the organized and beautiful beach of Antisamos with its clear waters and bars (in summer it is recommended to bring your swimsuit). At the beginning of the beach, where the bus stop is located at the bend in the road, the path starts. Its start is not very distinct due to the various signs that are present. The path is marked with two lines, blue and white, and proceeds easily, first past a wire fence of some property and then uphill, in a shady environment at first, between Skala and Ambelaki, the two hills of the area. As you climb the vegetation becomes lower and lower so that when you reach the top of the junction there are few shadows. At the junction we have two options: a) either to continue on our way to Agios Fanentes, b) or to do this, but after first visiting the site of the acropolis of ancient Sami, located to the west. The acropolis site dominates the hill of Skala, which is practically opposite us. After the acropolis, we head south towards Agios Fanentes and the ruins of the old monastery. Along the way the view towards Sami and the strait of Kefalonia - Ithaca is excellent. From Agios Fanentes the nature of the route changes. The path becomes narrow and downhill and needs attention. The signposting remains the same (blue and white line), while as we descend the environment becomes increasingly overgrown and shady. After a quite steep descent, in about 900 meters we go down about 200 meters of altitude (average gradient 22%), we reach the upper side of Sami, where through Priamos Street, we reach the point from where we started our route. The duration of the march is about two and a half hours, not counting the stops - visits of the various sights of the route (Antisamos, Acropolis of Sami, etc.). As a circular route, it can also be done from the reverse of the proposed direction, which is not recommended, because in this case the initial ascent from Sami to the ruins of the monastery is steeply uphill. In Kefalonia there are Health Centres in Sami and Hospitals in Argostoli and Lixouri. There are also police services in Fiskardo, Sami, Poros, Lixouri and Argostoli. Citizen Service Centres are in Argostoli, Livathou, Poros and in Agia Efthimia. Sami Sami is the largest town in eastern Kefalonia and an important port of the island, as it is the daily connection with Patras, Astakos and Ithaca. It is also a popular tourist destination. According to the 2011 census, it has 1,025 inhabitants  It has been inhabited since prehistoric times. In ancient times it was one of the four largest cities that made up the Kefalonian quadrilateral. Nature has been particularly generous to the area of Sami, as it is surrounded by lush vegetation, underground caves and beautiful lakes. Antisamos  It is the bay next to the port of Sami, to the east. Antisamos is a pebbly beach, long and wide, with waters that look green, reflecting the environment around the bay: green hills and mountains, covered with holly and cypress trees. For this reason, it is also known as the mirror beach. On the opposite side, the blue sea meets the equally green southern part of Ithaca. Antisamos became the setting for some of the most important and impressive scenes of the Hollywood production "Captain Corelli's Mandolin", which was filmed in Kefalonia in the summer of 2000 and was shown in cinemas all over the world, making the area famous.  Acropolis of Sami Perched on Mount Lapitha, the Ancient Acropolis of Sami offers a panoramic view of the homonymous port. With a history dating back to the Palaeolithic period, ancient Sami was a walled city, an autonomous and sovereign state with its own currency. The origins of the city-state can be traced back to the Geometric period. It was a prosperous city, with many inhabitants, due to its developed trade. Its two acropolises, the extensive fortification and the classical city occupy two hills, at the sites of 'Paleokastro' and 'Agii Fanentes', which are located east of the modern settlement of Sami. In 188 BC, after a four-month siege, it was occupied by the Romans and experienced its second period of prosperity. It acquired public buildings, baths and public works, while its private residences are very luxurious with mosaic floors. Its four cemeteries yield rich and impressive finds. Monastery of Agii Fanentes Within the walls of the acropolis of the classical city of Sami, the monastery of Agii Fanentes was built before 1264, when it was first officially mentioned. The name of the monastery, from which the hill it was built on was renamed, Agii Fanentes, seems to have been derived from a corruption of Agii Neophanis, the saints of Sami, Theodore, Gregory and Leo. According to another version , the name of the monastery is related to the 2nd century AD gnostic philosopher Epiphanis, who was venerated as a god in Sami.  Although the ruins date back to the post-Byzantine period, during which it was renovated (1633), built-in architectural elements in the Catholic Church indicate the existence of a church of the Middle Byzantine period. The complex follows the typical Byzantine layout with the cells arranged in a quadrilateral enclosure and the catholic, free inside. The walls and the incorporation of the ancient fortification tower into the building testify to the need to protect the monastery from pirate attacks, which plagued the island during the Frankish and Venetian periods.  The miraculous icon of Agii Fanentes and the icon of the Virgin Mary Glykofilousas, the so-called "Loutrou ", are located in the new Church of the Virgin Mary in Sami. During the route, the walker will encounter QR information signs at the following points: a) at a central point in Sami (Priamou + Akti Miaouli), b) in Sami (port exit), c) on the road to Antisamos (after Loutro beach), d) on the road to Antisamos (at the viewpoint), e) at the start of the path from Antisamos, f) at the end of the path from Antisamos (where it meets the asphalt road), g) at the parking area of the Monastery of Agii Fanentes in Sami, where the path meets the asphalt road

In the area of Evmaeus: Rizes cave - Arethousa spring The walker’s/tourist's orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: linear (the beginning and the end of the route coincide) Route’s duration: 1 hour and 40 minutes Route’s length: 4.600m Level of difficulty: difficult Suggested season: spring The route The start of the trail is well marked and distinct. There are information signs and a bench. The trail starts towards the Rizes Cave, uphill, but it is not particularly strenuous. The trail is well marked and not difficult, while a big part of it, is under the trees (shady), strawberry trees, cypresses, olives, myrtles, field flowers, etc.. The cave is excellent and there is a passable entrance to it and a place to see it from above (it needs attention, though). The walker, then, descends towards the beginning of the path and when he reaches the asphalt road he turns right and after about 300 metres he comes across a wooden kiosk with benches which marks the descent to the Arethousa fountain. The path starts with a gentle downhill which is paved but there are few shady spots. There are some chickweed, bushes, sage, thyme, field flowers, etc. Then the trail becomes sharply downhill and rough (needs attention) that lasts for quite a while. Then, the quality of the trail improves. At some points the trail needs increased attention. The view is unique towards the sea and the beaches of the island. When the walker approaches Arethousa fountain the landscape becomes evocative due to the verticality of the rocks. The access to the fountain requires caution, as the walker has to cross a bog. The fountain is located in a cave and has turquoise water. A beautiful goose is a resident of the area. In the fountain's surroundings there are meaningless barbed wire fences that simply detract from the scenery. The return is by the same road. The total duration of the hike (including the local difficulties) without counting any stops is at least two hours due to the difficulties encountered in many places and the uphill nature of the return from the spring of Arethousa. In Ithaca there are: Medical Centre in Vathi and Regional Medical office in Stavros, Police Station in Vathi and Citizen Service Centre (KEP) also in Vathi. Arethousa Spring Arethousa Fountain is mentioned in Homer as the spring where Eumaeus watered his flocks. It is located in the middle of the slope of the steep cliff below the Marathia plateau, in southern Ithaca. On the beach below, where the downhill path leads, is the beach of Pera Pigadi, while the large rock seen to the right of the Arethousa Fountain is called Petra tou Koraka. This is an unfailing well, located in the opening of the rock. According to ancient tradition, Korax was a resident of Ithaca who, while hunting, fell off a cliff and was killed. His mother, whose name was Arethusa, hung herself in grief by a spring. The spring was named after her, and was called "Arethusa's fountain," and the steep rock was called "Crow's stone" after her son. Rizes Cave It is a cave, quite spacious with a large old fig tree whose roots (rizes) are visible, giving the cave its name. We enter through a small opening in the rock. There is a large opening on the roof of the cave and from there a lot of air and light enters. The cave has a large capacity and this is the reason why in the past it was used to stable animals. There is also the opinion of some researchers that this cave is the Homeric Cave of Eumaeus, the swineherd of Odysseus. Eumaeus Eumaeus was Odysseus' faithful swineherd, who made every effort to preserve his master's property during his twenty-year absence. He is the only person in the Odyssey to whom the poet addresses himself in the second person: "di Eumae" = "you, Eumaeus". He was the son of Ctesia of Ormenides, king of the island of Sirius, which was in the Cyclades. Thus, his nurse from Phoenicia stole Eumaeus when he was a young boy, and took him with her when she ran away, on a Phoenician ship, to return home to her parents. During the trip, the nurse died, and when the ship caught up at Ithaca the merchants sold Eumaeus as a slave to Laertes, Odysseus' father, who made him a swineherd. As soon as Odysseus returned to Ithaca after his ten-year journey, on the advice of the goddess Athena, he went and met Eumaeus in his hut, and from him he learned all the events that took place during his absence. On the same days, Telemachus returned to Ithaca from Sparta and Pylos. Eumaeus welcomed him with paternal affection and let him go and announce to Penelope the joyful event. In Eumaeus' hut, with the divine intervention of Athena, the recognition of Telemachus and Odysseus took place. After this, Eumaeus led Odysseus, disguised as a poor beggar, to the palace to fool the suitors, and presented him to Penelope. In the end, Eumaeus gained his freedom from Telemachus and became the chieftain of the Coliad family in Ithaca. During the route, the walker will encounter QR information signs at the following points: a) trailhead (at the information signs), b) Rizes cave, c) kiosk to Arethousa fountain, d) halfway to the fountain (in a tree that has a kind of bench made of rocks), e) at Arethousa fountain (at the information signs)

At Potistis Waterfalls: Gradou Gorge - Potistis Waterfalls The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: linear (the beginning and the end are the same) Route’s duration: 20 minutes (one way) Route’s length: 750 meters (one way) Level of difficulty: medium Suggested season: All seasons, if weather conditions permit it. During summer, you should avoid midday hours. The route The trail starts from the unique beach of Limenia, where there is a relative plateau where we can leave the car. This point is easily identified because the asphalt is practically at sea level, but there is no information sign confirming the start of the trail. The trail is not marked but there is no difficulty in following it, as it is easily discernible. The trail begins gently beside the creek where it is eventually encountered and must be crossed. Depending on the season, the creek has from no water to a lot of water, so the difficulty of crossing it is corresponding. Afterwards, the trail becomes slightly uphill being next to the creek and requires extra caution. As we approach the waterfall, which is on our left hand going uphill, the view becomes more and more beautiful, either towards the mountains that surround the gorge, or behind us towards the Ionian Sea. The waterfall looks imposing at twenty metres high and, when there is water, it is a beautiful sight to see. It should be mentioned that it usually has water from mid-autumn onwards, depending on the weather, and until the beginning of spring. We visited it in late May and it was completely dry. However, we were more than rewarded by the many beautiful butterflies that kept us company the whole way. Towards the end of the trail, and if we want to descend to the roots of the waterfall, the trail becomes sharply downhill and even more attention is required. The area is lush but in several places the vegetation is low and therefore the trail does not pass through shady places, which is a discouragement to do the hike at midday in summer. The return is by the same road (trail). It is obligatory to return from where we started, because there are no other alternatives. In Kefalonia there are Health Centres in Sami and Hospitals in Argostoli and Lixouri. There are also police services in Fiskardo, Sami, Poros, Lixouri and Argostoli. Citizen Service Centres are in Argostoli, Livathou, Poros and in Agia Efthimia. Limenia Beach After passing the port of Poros and taking the road to Skala, we will find a series of beaches, ideal for those who want peace, quiet and isolation. They are Limenia, which you will find on the left side of the road (going towards Skala). A quiet corner always awaits us there, even on August. The typical rocks that are located a few meters from the coast and that often host seagulls, give the landscape a special charm. Gradous Gorge  The "Gradous Gorge", a gorge with many waterfalls, lakes and plenty of water from December to May, is hidden in the area between Skala and Poros. The waters come from the areas of Asprogeraka and Anninata. In the gorge there are waterfalls, reaching a height of up to twenty metres, lakes with a diameter of ten metres and a depth of up to four metres. Here, the landscape reminds you of parts of central or northern Greece and not so much of an island.  In season with abundant water, you can swim. Potistis Watefalls This is the largest and most impressive waterfall found in the Gradous Gorge. In the past, due to water's presence, there used to be gardens with fruit trees at the springs and prehistoric settlements along the river. The crystal clear waters falling from a great height and the picturesque pond that is formed in front of the base of the waterfall, create an impressive heavenly environment. During the route, the walker will encounter QR information signs at the following points: a) at the beginning of the trail, b) at the point where the trail meets the creek, c) at the waterfall area.

On the western beaches: Avali - Gaidaros - Kathisma The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: linear Route’s duration: 40 minutes (one way) Route’s length: 2,300 metres (one way) Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: All seasons, weather permitting. In summer, you should avoid the midday hours because there are no shady places on a large part of the route. The route A pleasant and easy route to the western and beautiful beaches of Lefkada. The route starts from Kalamitsi Beach (Avali). Τo get there, we have driven down the narrow, and not in very good condition and very downhill, asphalt road from the settlement of Kalamitsi. The flat route is initially on an asphalt road, which is also not in good condition but does not affect the walker, and then becomes a dirt road. From Avali we head north, always having the sea to the west (on our left). The landscape is beautiful and special, having to the east the steep slopes of the western mountains of Lefkada and to the west the beaches with the deep blue waters and the scattered rocks that make them unique. There are no shady places on the route. After Avali we find ourselves at the beach of Theotokos (Gaidaros). On this part of the route (Avali - Gaidaros) there are several canteens, which operate during the summer months, offering refreshment and coolness to the walker. In the evening hours the route offers excellent views of the sunset. Towards the end of the route and just before the famous Kathisma beach, the dirt road becomes a slightly downhill path leading to the south side of the beach. We continue along the beach until we meet the coastal asphalt road and the end of our course. Kathisma beach is an organized beach with various shops, mainly catering, and other facilities (umbrellas, etc.) that are also open during the summer months. The return is by the same route unless the walker has arranged for a vehicle to wait for him at Kathisma beach. On the island of Lefkada there are: Citizen Service Centres in the town of Lefkada, in Nydri and in Vasiliki. Police Headquarters in the town of Lefkada and a Police Station in Vlyho. In addition to private health structures there are: Hospital in Lefkada Town, Health Centre in Vasiliki and Regional Medical Centre in Syvros. Kalamitsi Kalamitsi is a settlement in Lefkada, with about 200 inhabitants. It is one of the oldest settlements of the island, built on the slope of the Rachi mountain range, hidden from the sea in fear of pirates. It is located 23 km southeast of the town of Lefkada.  In Kalamitsi we will find 13 windmills that stand there and remind us of the time when the area produced grain. Kalamitsi is also famous for its weavings. The view from the settlement is enchanting and the nearby beaches are beautiful. Theotokos Beach (Gaidaros) The Theotokou beach or Gaidaros is located below the settlement of Kalamitsi. The road leading there is quite narrow and has many bends. In fact, the beach is very close to Kathisma, but you can only get there by walking along the coast. The beach has sand and scattered rocks, while there are several stones in the deep blue waters and there are often waves. From the canteens in the area we can enjoy wonderful sunsets. Also here we can enjoy the flying of gliders, which use the beach for landing. Kathisma Beach Kathisma beach is one of the most famous and popular beaches of Lefkada. It is located 15 km from the town, in western Lefkada. It is a huge sandy beach with white sand and turquoise waters. Kathisma beach is fully organized, with a large parking lot, beach bar, umbrellas and of course a lot of people. However, its size also gives the opportunity for those who prefer quietness to have their space at the edges of the beach. The beach is surrounded by impressive cliffs. Here, paragliding enthusiasts can enjoy incredible views by flying over the beach with its cliffs and turquoise waters. 

From Lakka to Loggos: Lakka - Aronatika - Grammatikaiika - Rantatika - Loggos The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: linear Route’s duration: 2 hours Route’s length: 6,500 metres Level of difficulty: easy Suggested season: all seasons, weather permitting The route The route starts from the settlement of Lakka, from where a beautifully landscaped path begins over the western beaches of the settlement, where the walker enjoys the view of the beautiful homonymous bay. A landslide has occurred at one point and increased caution is required. After about 700 metres the path meets a concrete road, which is followed south going uphill. The road passes through olive groves, in a largely shady environment, dotted with beautiful buildings. We continue along the same road for about two kilometres and after passing Aronatika, we follow the path that continues along a wall of privately owned land (there are signs). From this point we very soon reach the wonderful and unique bay of Ipapanti with its vertical cliffs and caves. The view of the bay, which requires increased attention, is breathtaking. There, apart from the vertical rocks and the bay in the background, we enjoy the endless blue of the Ionian Sea. We then head towards the area of Rantatika and the enchanting and evocative site of the church of Ipapanti through a pretty downhill path. The area is shady and overgrown with olive trees, cypresses and other vegetation. After passing Rantatika, we continue our downhill course through the lush vegetation of the ravine and after passing the stream (which doesn't present any difficulty) we climb up the stone cobbled road towards Loggos, where we meet the main asphalt road. At the junction we see the old English tank of 1862 and continue our slightly downhill course from the main asphalt road which leads us to Loggos. At some point, we take a short detour, taking a shortcut through a path, which takes us back to the central asphalt. Less than a kilometre later, we find Loggos with its beautiful beaches, its welcoming shops and the evocative ruins of the old soap factory. In Paxos there is: Health Centre, Police Station and Citizen Service Centre (KEP). Lakka Lakka is a settlement in the North of Paxos. It is nestled at the bottom of a sheltered bay, popular with boats of all kinds for the safety it offers. It takes its name from its Souliotes inhabitants, who, persecuted by Ali Pasha of Ioannina, fled to Paxos.  In its streets you will find small picturesque stone houses. It is surrounded by green hills and has very nice beaches, such as Monodentri and Harami beach. Near Lakka there are also very interesting sea caves. Among them is the most remarkable cave of Hypapanti. Among the sights of the settlement is the Byzantine church of Ipapanti, which dates back to 1600. The church has an impressive bell tower and a well-crafted iconostasis. Also worth visiting is the stone lighthouse, which was built in 1832, is 36 metres high and rises 108 metres above sea level. Loggos Loggos is a small, but very picturesque settlement of Paxos, nestled in pine trees and olive trees. It is 5 km away from Gaios and has about 200 inhabitants.  From the harbour of Loggos, we can, by renting a small boat, navigate the turquoise beaches of the island and its sea caves. Very close to Longos are the exceptional beaches of Levrechio, Marmari, Kipos and Kipiadis. At the edge of the settlement dominates the old oil and soap factory of Anemogiannis, next to the primary school. It is also worth visiting the church of Zoodochos Pigi, whose existence is mentioned since 1739, in order to admire its hagiographies. Every year in the first days of September, Loggos hosts a particularly interesting classical music festival.  Anemogianni Soap Factory in Loggos On our left hand, as we face the harbour of Loggos, we find an imposing ruined building, which is now being repaired. It is the old soap factory of the brothers Stefanos and Ioannis Anemogiannis. It was first operated at the end of the 19th century as an oilseed processing factory, unique in the Balkans in terms of size and equipment. In 1932, under the leadership of Spyros Anemogiannis, a chemist, the expansion of the factory began, which evolved into a soap factory. In its peak, the factory employed 60-70 workers. In the 1960s, after two fires, the factory began to decline. It was finally closed in the 1980s.

From Gaios to Trypitos: Gaios - Makratika - Velianitakia - Trypitos - Ozias - Gaios The walker’s orientation and safety is solely their responsibility. The present report, the relevant tracks (gpx) and the rest of the informational material are just supplementary. The proper equipment is necessary, depending on the weather conditions and the nature of the route.  Route’s type: circular Route’s duration: 2 hours Route’s length: 6,200 metres Level of difficulty: medium Suggested season: All seasons, weather permitting. In summer, you should avoid midday, as there are no shady places along much of the route. The route The route is not marked and consists of different types of trails (on asphalt, dirt roads, cobbled roads, paths) that make the route very difficult to follow for the average walker and easy to get lost. It is advisable for the hiker to make use of a relevant orientation application on his/her mobile phone (or other similar devices), according to the traces of the route. The route starts from the beach of Gaios and specifically from the Church of Analipsis tou Kyriou and the monument of Anemogiannis. We proceed from the main road (Othonoi Island road) westwards to the area of the flea market and then slightly uphill next to the stream from the asphalt road. Behind the flea market area there is the famous cistern of Agioi Apostoloi which is worth a short detour to visit. After about 840 metres from the start of the route we leave the asphalt road and take the dirt/cement road on our right (it is the one immediately after the rubbish bins). We follow this road, crossing Makratika, until we get back on the asphalt where this time, after passing the ruined houses and the church with the cemetery, we turn west towards Agios Georgios of Velianitatika. From there begins a cobbled path that slowly becomes a classic path that leads us to the cliff of Mousmoulios. Unfortunately, the quality of the cobbled road and the path is very poor, because they have not been maintained and cleaned for some time now and their passage requires increased attention. The view over the cliff of Mousmoulios is breathtaking with the ground cutting vertically beneath our feet and reaching the deep blue clear water. After crossing the cliff of Mousmoulios, paying attention, the trail branches off with another trail that leads to the arch of Trypitos. Occasionally, on the path there are informative signs that make it easier to find our way around. After descending to the arch, we continue along the main path in a northerly direction, uphill at first and then more gently and smoothly, where in about 1,500 metres we reach the settlement of Ozia. From there, the route is downhill on asphalt and then just before the church we have to take the path on our left in the direction of Gaios. This downhill path through olive groves will lead us to the stairs of the settlement, which will take us to the beach and from there to the beginning of our route. It is a route with intense landscape changes, where the landscape of Gaios is interspersed with olive groves, abandoned settlements, beautiful shady cobbled streets, paths with endless views of the Ionian Sea next to large cliffs, places with a particular natural beauty, beautiful olive groves with over-aged olive trees, modern buildings, beautiful stairs and last but not least the touristic, but very beautiful, coastal road of Gaios. The total route takes more than two hours (not counting any stops) and this is because the route consists of paths, cobbled paths, etc. the majority of which are damaged because they have not received any essential maintenance, repair and cleaning for a long time, which slows down the route and requires increased attention. For the same reason, the course is classified as being of moderate difficulty. In Paxos there is: Health Centre, Police Station and Citizen Service Centre (KEP). Paxos Paxos is an island in the Ionian Sea, the smallest of the seven islands. They are located seven (7) nautical miles southeast of Corfu and eight (8) nautical miles west of the coast of Epirus. Southwest of Paxos and a short distance away is the island of Antipaxi. Their population is about 2,390 inhabitants (2011 census) and their area is 30.0 square kilometres. According to the myth, Poseidon, in order to live his love affair with Amphitrite undistracted, separated Paxos from Corfu with the trident. A reference to this myth is the symbol of Paxos, a trident with two dolphins on its right and left. The capital of Paxos is Gaios, a traditional and very picturesque settlement. The other settlements of the island, Loggos, Lakka and Ozias, are also particularly beautiful.  The whole island is covered with olive and pine trees, and has sulphurous thermal springs. The island's beaches are also famous for their turquoise waters, caves and rocks, ideal for diving and exploration. Gaios Gaios (or Gais) is located in the southern part of the island, is the largest settlement of Paxos and its capital. According to tradition, it owes its name to the student of Paul the Apostle, Gaios, who spread Christianity on the island and his grave is located under the old church of the Agioi Apostoloi. It is naturally protected by two islets, Panagia and Agios Nikolaos, which create a narrow sea passage between them. On Agios Nikolaos there is a Venetian fortress, small churches and a windmill, while on the islet of Panagia there is the homonymous monastery.  In Gaios, the churches of Agioi Apostoloi and the Old Christian church of Agia Marina, but also the old British Government House, the tank of Agioi Apostoloi and the Museum of Paxos, are worth visiting. In the port of Gaios, there is a marina, where small fishing boats and tourist boats moor. The tank of Agioi Apostoloi in Gaios It is an ornate, impressive, due to its size and architecture, water tank, which began to be built in 1825 and was completed in 1846. It is located almost in the centre of the settlement of Gaios. It was built by the English during the period of British rule in the Ionian Islands. Since 1982 it has been a protected building of the Ministry of Culture. It has a rectangular shape and a monumental central staircase on the south side. It has not only the main tank, but also a kind of elongated sedimentation tank on the north side. Despite the difficulties in recording its dimensions, it seems that this auxiliary tank is almost 1/3 of the size of the main tank. It collects water not only from the paved drainage surface at its top but also from land in the unfenced area. Three openings in the wall, separating the two tanks, carry overflow water from the auxiliary sedimentation tank to the main tank. Unfortunately, the tank has not been maintained and in combination with the lack of cleaning of the area, an image of abandonment and decay emerges. For Anemogiannis and his monument Giorgos Anemogiannis, whose adriad we meet in Paxos, the place where he was born, but also in Nafpaktos, the place where he was tortured, is a young hero of 1821, who moves us, no matter how many years have passed, with his courage and self-sacrifice. He was born in 1798 in Paxos. The Revolution of 1821 found him as an eighteen-year-old sailor on the merchant ship "The Allies", owned by Bouboulina Laskarina, with N. Orlov as captain. On 10 June 1821 he participated, as a torchbearer, in one of the first naval attacks against an Ottoman target. During the attack he was captured and executed by the Turks, and his body was then hanged in plain view, as an example to other revolutionaries. The Monument of Paxos, found on the coastal road of Gaios, is the work of sculptor Nikolas Pavlopoulos, created in 1966. The Cliff of Mousmoulios It is one of the steepest cliffs of Paxos, on the western side of the island, with an altitude of about 45m, offering an excellent view of the deep blue sea and an amazing sunset. The cliff itself, due to its exceptional relief, is a monument of nature. Arch of Trypitos The arch is one of the main attractions of Paxos. It is a natural rock formation with the appearance of an arch or sometimes a natural bridge, located on the western coast of Paxos. It was formed by the collapse of a sea cave. Its height reaches 20 metres at its highest point. The waters surrounding it are crystal clear and, combined with this unique geological phenomenon, create an unforgettable spectacle. Once there, you can walk over it, as it is a natural bridge, and of course swim in the crystal clear waters of the area.