Easy hikes and walks around Δρυμός Αίνου

On a clear day, a fantastic view from the summit of Ainos (also called Mount Enos), the highest mountain on the Ionian island of Kefalonia in Greece at 1,628 meters. The mountain is located in the Ainos National Park of the same name, which is known for its rare Kefalonian fir trees and a herd of semi-wild horses. The summit is called Megas Soros. There are various ways to reach it. The easiest way: Drive by car on an asphalt road to the transmission stations (Chionistra). From there, a path about 2.1 km long (approx. 30 minutes to 1 hour walking time) leads to the summit.

On a clear day, a fantastic view from the summit of Ainos (also called Mount Enos), the highest mountain on the Ionian island of Kefalonia in Greece, at 1,628 meters. The mountain is located in the Ainos National Park of the same name, which is known for its rare Kefalonian fir trees and a herd of semi-wild horses. The summit point is called Megas Soros. There are various ways to reach it. The easiest way: Drive by car on an asphalt road to the transmission stations (Chionistra). From there, a path about 2.1 km long (approx. 30 minutes to 1 hour walking time) leads to the summit.

The "Gratweg" (or Ridge Trail) leads along the mountain ridge and, in clear weather, offers spectacular panoramic views of the neighboring islands of Zakynthos, Ithaka, and Lefkada, as well as the Greek mainland. Wild horses also live in the region, which with a bit of luck can be observed on the slopes. The wooden steps are typical of the well-developed ascent to the summit area, which is often started from a parking lot at the end of an asphalt mountain road.

The Monastery Beach (also known as Sissia Beach) near the village of Simotata in the region of Livathos. The beach is located in a bay below Mount Ainos. It is named after the Sissia Monastery (Moni Sission) above it, one of the oldest monasteries on the island, founded in the 13th century. Access to the beach is via an unpaved gravel road or a hiking trail from the monastery. It is a quiet, rather secluded pebble beach with crystal-clear water.

The „Old Monastery” is the historic Sissia Monastery (also called Moni Sission) near the village of Lourdata and above Sissia beach. The original monastery probably dates from the 13th century and, according to local tradition, was founded by Saint Francis of Assisi. The ruins visible today show influences of the Venetian Renaissance and Baroque. The old monastery was almost completely destroyed by the severe earthquake of 1953. A new monastery was built a few hundred meters above, which is still active today.

This is a small, quiet bay with a pebble beach and crystal-clear, turquoise water. The beach is located below the main road connecting the mountain village of Vlachata with Poros. The access is a bit hidden and is via a steep path or an unpaved road, making it an ideal place for those seeking tranquility.

The stone bridge of Grizata (also known as the Venetian bridge) is a historical relic, built from local stone, that once served as an important crossing for villagers and travelers. Today, it is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. It is nestled in a lush, green landscape near the villages of Grizata and Zervata. The bridge is a highlight of the 7 Water Mills Trail, which leads past the ruins of old water mills along a narrow river.

The ruins are parts of the ancient acropolis of Sami (often called Kyatis), located on the Paleokastro hill. The remains of the old walls and stone structures are picturesquely nestled in a landscape of cypresses and pines.