Kiparissia, Greece - into the hills

Akova & our jeep

The day was bright and sunny with glorious blue skies! After a leisurely breakfast on the terrace by the sea we tried to find a way up to the castle – and failed. No signs and no obvious way. We then headed inland past Olympia and then into the wild mountains. Beautiful wild country with winding roads and spectacular views. We turned away from the main road to go to Tropeia looking for the ruins of Akova castle. Managed to spot a small sign post and then drove four or five kilometres along a stone and mud track before coming to a stop at the sight of a small tower. Pushed our way through the undergrowth to this and then another before finding an open space with a stone platform – the castle site looked as if it had previously been a Greek or Roman temple. Not many visitors come this way. Found a green path back to the track in the lunchtime heat. Retraced our route back to tarmac – thankful for the 4-wheel drive again. Headed further into the hills and stopped at Dmitsana a well preserved old village – but with several ATMs. Took in the views over the Lousas gorge from the town. Moved on a few kilometres to Stemnitsa to the Country Club Trikolion hotel. A beautifully restored old inn it is now an upmarket hotel. We relaxed over a drink in the bar had a late siesta and then walked out into night in search of dinner. Seemed to be two places in the village to eat – but one only had tables outside and this high in the hills it was too cold! We walked into the other place, one room with a few tables and students from the jewellery school. Received a welcome from them and from the proprietor, there was no menu, we were asked to go into the kitchen and choose from the dishes on offer. Had a good dinner with a litre of local rose and felt no pain on the walk back to the hotel