The Menalon Trail: An Epic Three-Day Running Journey Through Greece
Running through the Arcadia mountains in the center of the Peloponnese
The Menalon Trail has been on my radar for a few years. Situated in Greece's Arcadia region, it traverses 75km of mountains from Stemnitsa to Lagadia, passing some of the most dramatic scenery steeped in history. Making use of old mule paths, the trail joins nine historic villages in the Gortinyan Mountains.
Unlike other remote hiking routes, this one has a hook—it's clearly marked with signposts along its entirety. Navigating trails without clear markings can be tiring, frustrating, and even dangerous. This trail does everything it needs to attract hikers from all over the world. And it's been noticed. The Menalon Trail is the first trail in Greece that is certified by the European Ramblers Association.
The Menalon Trail in 3 stages - 86km | 3850m+
The Menalon Trail day 1: Elliniko to Dimitsana
DISTANCE: 20km ELEVATION: 1250m
While the Menalon trail is classed as an eight-stage trail, I calculated that a runner could cover the distance in a little over two days. We drove from Athens to Dimitsana, parked at our first night's hotel, and took a taxi down the valley to Elliniko. While the official start of the trail is Stemnitsa, the additional 500m climb from Eliniko makes for a more runner-friendly day.
The trail between Stemnitsa and Dimitsana is a 12.5km stretch of the Menalon Trail that is known for its jaw breaking views and scenery. Leaving the village of Stemnitsa, the trail follows the Louisos Gorge down to the village of Dimitsana. Along the way, you will pass by ancient monasteries, wildflower meadows, and stunning views of the surrounding valleys and Lykaion mountain.
The trail is relatively easy and can be completed in a few hours, making it an short day on the feet. There’s plenty to keep you occupied once arriving in Dimitsana.
Dimitsana is a picturesque village surrounded by mountains and rivers, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Dimitsana is known for its historical sites and traditional Greek architecture, including its neoclassical mansions, while its many churches and monasteries provide reminders of the area's long and rich history. The village is also known for its hospitality and friendly locals, making it the perfect place for the first night on the Menalon Trail.
Five minutes into the trail and we already passed the first church. The trail is dotted with small white churches all along the route, each offering a moment of respite to admire the surrounding beauty. Every step of the trail is a reminder of the history and culture of the area, while also providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Even though Elliniko to Stemnitsa is not on the main trail, the route is well signposted for its 5km, 500m+ climb. The trail winds its way up the mountain, passing through forests of beech and chestnut trees. Despite the steep incline, the trail is worth it for the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside that you get at the top.
At the entry of Stemnitsa, the start of the Menalon Trail, I'm filled with excitement and anticipation. I know that the next 12.5km stretch is going to be an amazing journey through the stunning Greek countryside, taking in the ancient monasteries in through the Louisos gorge.
Stemnitsa is the true start of the Menalon Trail. Starting further down the valley in Eliniko makes for a more runner-friendly distance, and it meant we could stop in Stemnitsa for lunch.
All of the afternoon objectives unfold from this viewpoint of the Louisos Gorge. We can see the monasteries dotted throughout, and our destination of Dimitsana, towards the top of the frame. With a renewed sense of energy, we set off on the trail, ready to tackle the final few hours of our journey.
Prodromos Monastery clings to the cliff face at the bottom of the Louisos Gorge, providing an awe-inspiring sight as you make your way down the trail. The monastery was built in the 12th century and is still in use today; it is a reminder of the long and rich history of the region. The views from the monastery are truly breathtaking, with the surrounding mountains providing a stunning backdrop.
Monastery, one of the oldest in Greece, takes a more prominent location on the right. As we make our way down the trail, the monasteries offer us a moment of respite to admire the stunning landscape, and remind us of the rich history and culture of the area.
Prodromos Monastery nests under the rock in the spectacular Louisos Gorge. Dating back to the 12th century, this monastery is a reminder of the long and rich history of the area, and a testament to the faith of its people. The monastery is precariously placed, clinging to the cliff face, and provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It's easy to see why this is a highlight of the Menalon Trail.
Flat cap on backwards, running vest, sarong. Well dressed for a visit to admire the Philosophou Monastery.
The Menalon Trail is colour-coded over the three days. Red, yellow, and green trail markers show you the way.
En Dimitsana Guesthouse is a cozy guesthouse located at the end of the first day of the Menalon Trail. It has stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The guesthouse offers comfortable accommodation and delicious local cuisine, as well as a friendly atmosphere and warm hospitality. After an afternoon running, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy a sunset beer.
The Menalon Trail day 2: Dimitsana to Vytina
DISTANCE: 27km ELEVATION: 1000m
After leaving Dimitsana, we climbed up into the mountains. The treeline reached the summits, and paths often opened up to plateaus, which threw us off a sense of progress on the way to Zygovisti.
We planned to eat at the small village of Elati, which is a 1km climb off the main trail, though we arrived at a deserted village. The local taverna was locked and nobody around—all except two dogs who were more than happy to help us eat our only Cliff Bar.
The lack of people was again a talking point as we passed through a second day without crossing other people. When we arrived in the cute mountain town of Vytina later in the day, it was clear we were the first tourists on the trail in 2020.
Navigating your route is made easy with destinations in both Greek and English, distance markers, and estimated travel times.
All packed for two days on the trail. We had left our car at the first night stop in Dimitsana and would return by taxi after finishing the following day.
The sun rises over the hills of Dimitsana as a shepherd drives a flock of animals through the early morning air.
A short climb leads to a breathtaking view of the picturesque town of Dimitsana, the jewel of the Arcadia region.
Giant books on the path on day two.
11.5km to our lunch stop in Elati. We had no idea at this point that we would arrive to a shuttered village.
We had to keep an eye out for turtles sunning themselves in the warm sunshine.
Lunch stop in Elati. Nothing open and two dogs more than happy to share our sole Cliff Bar and sachet of Trail Butter.
Climbing up from the depths of the Mylaon Canyon and onto the lush hills of Vytina, where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
We ran the trail at the end of June. Daily temperatures were around 27c, and we found water easily along the route.
The section between Elati and Vytina is considered one of the most beautiful parts of the Menalon Trail, and with it being deserted, it was the perfect spot for a secluded skinny dip.
The Menalon Trail day 3: Vytina to Lagkadia
DISTANCE: 38.5km ELEVATION: 1600m
We knew that the day had the potential to turn into a slog, so we started as soon as the bakery opened at 7 am. Spinach pies and coffee onboard, we had mentally split the day in two.
Today our stops were full of delights—ice creams, lemonade, greek salad, souvlaki, and even a beer. Quite the feast compared to the previous day's Cliff Bar.
Arriving at the finish line in Lagkadia, we had covered the 86km (3800m+) route in two and a half days. We approached the trail with a fastpacking mentality—carrying the essentials for three days while mostly power hiking. Our definition of "runnable terrain" evolved over the three days, stepping up to a jog only when the slope seemed ideal!
As the sun rises on day three, we set off from Vytina, ready to tackle the day ahead.
Almost 40km ahead of us meant a strategic breakfast order at the bakery in Vytina.
Leaving Vytnia with pastries and coffee to accompany the first kms.
Early morning in the impressive ravine outside of Vytina.
As we hiked through the lush countryside, we were greeted by the buzzing of bees hard at work in their hives. A reminder of the beauty and harmony of nature.
Valtesiniko proved to be a great place for lunch, with several restaurants and cafes offering a variety of tasty dishes. After the previous day's less-than-stellar experience, we were happy to find a satisfying meal to fuel us for the rest of the day's run.
After hours of running, the sight of a small ice cream shop in the quaint village of Magouliana was a welcome relief.
After red and yellow, it was the turn of the green signposts to guide your way.
The drag from Valtesiniko to the finish line in Lagkadia tested our endurance. As the heat beat down on us, we dug deep and pushed on to the end.
Job done! Elliniko to Lagkadia (86km) in two and a half days. The Menalon Trail is everything we hoped for and more. A runnable trail in a beautiful region of Greece.
Menalon Trail Logistics
START: GETTING TO ELLINIKO
The closest airport is Athens (ATH).
By road, Dimitsana is around 2 and a half hours drive from Athens.
Most walkers tackle the trail by basing themselves at one location and taking a taxi to the trailhead each day. We decided to park the car at the end of the first day in Dimitsana. From there we took a €25 taxi to the start of the trail in Elliniko.
FINISH: LEAVING LAGADIA
Having left the car in Dimitsana, we arranged for a €25 taxi to take us back.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: