Spilios Agapitos - Zonaria - Oropedio - Gortsia
Spilios Agapitos – Zonaria – Plateau of the Muses – Gortsia
There is a relatively direct route from the Spilios Agapitos (Zolota) Refuge to the Plateau of the Muses (Oropedio), passing beneath the impressive cliffs of Zonaria. The path begins shortly after leaving the refuge as you ascend toward Skala. The trailhead is clearly marked with a sign, so it is difficult to miss.
The first section crosses the wooded slopes visible from Refuge A. The terrain involves a little light scrambling but is generally moderate and comfortable to follow. After this, the trail reaches a middle section that becomes somewhat steeper, though it is still manageable for most hikers. As you climb higher and look back, you are rewarded with striking views of the Spilios Agapitos Refuge far below.
The ascent continues steadily, and even in August it is common to pass a small snowfield with dramatic views up toward Mytikas. After roughly one hour to an hour and a half, depending on pace, you reach a steep incline known as “the Elevator,” located around the final fifth of the climb. This short but direct section lifts you quickly to the upper path.
From here the trail becomes easier to walk, though there is a drop to the right so care is still required. After about twenty minutes you arrive at the entrance to the Plateau of the Muses. Kakalos Refuge soon appears on the right, and after a short zig-zag climb the refuge stands clearly in front of you. Looking left you can see Profitis Ilias and Apostolidis Refuge, while turning further reveals the striking rock tower of Stefani.
Kakalos is an excellent place to rest, offering good food, friendly company, and spectacular views across the plateau.
If you decide to continue the descent the same day toward Gortsia, head across the plateau away from Stefani. After passing a small rocky outcrop you will reach Lemos, a narrow ridge with dramatic views on both sides. Once this section is crossed, the route begins its long descent.
The path eventually enters the forest, and about thirty minutes later Petrostrouga Refuge appears on the left, another pleasant place to pause for a break. Leaving Petrostrouga, you descend a steeper section of trail, though it is not technically difficult. From there the route continues through the lower forest until you reach a junction known as Barbas, a good place to catch your breath before the final stretch.
From Barbas it takes roughly another twenty to thirty minutes to reach the Gortsia car park, marking the end of the route.
