Hiking Lousios Gorge

The Lousios Gorge, located on the western slopes of Mount Menalon in the heart of the Peloponnese, is a breathtaking natural wonder, rich in both history and beauty. This rugged canyon, through which the Lousios River flows, is known for its wild landscapes, ancient monasteries perched on cliffs, and the diverse flora and fauna that thrive within its depths. Our hike here is a journey through time, with each step leading you to a new story, from the cliff-hanging Prodromou Monastery to the ancient and modern Philosophou Monasteries.

Your adventure begins at the new Philosophou Monastery, where your guide will brief you on the hike ahead. From there, venture into the Lousios Gorge to reach the venerable old Philosophou Monastery, founded in 963 AD. Set within a tranquil forest, this ancient Byzantine monument offers stunning views of the gorge below.

As you continue deeper into the gorge, the path unveils ancient hermitages, old mills, and natural springs, crossing the majestic Lousios River—a river that, according to legend, bathed the infant Zeus. The hike also includes a visit to the Prodromou (St. John the Baptist) Monastery, an architectural gem of Greek Orthodox design, built on the edge of a cliff in the 16th century, representing both historical fortitude and spiritual serenity.

A well-deserved break halfway through allows you to enjoy a homemade snack, refueling for the next leg of the journey. The trail then leads you to Ancient Gortys, an ancient city located along the river, once dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing. This site served as a sanctuary for health and recovery, making it a place of great significance in antiquity.

As the hike concludes, take a moment to soak your feet in the cool waters of the river, a fitting end to your journey before your guide transports you back to the starting point.