The eighth part of Long Pelion Trail follows the coastal trail connection between Afissos and the neighboring settlements of Lefokastro and Kalamos
After Kalamos, the trail ascends to the village of Argalasti, the economic and social center of Southern Pelion.
The first part of the route, which connects Afissos with Lefokastro, follows a paved road. The section from Lefokastro to Kalamos retains its naturalness, as well as the ascent to Argalasti. The paths of this section are clear, well maintained and the route, either on well-preserved trails either on the coastline or on the mild and verdant slopes, is always pleasant and bright.
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SETTLEMENTS
Lefokastro
Lefokastro is a picturesque fishing village next to a beautiful beach with blue, crystal waters. The dense vegetation goes all the way down to the sea whereas the area is well-protected from the strong winds and hidden from the mass tourism.{cr}
A little above the village, at the top of the hill, there is a small cave which used to be a observation point for the pirates. On our walk to the neighboring beach of Gourna, we find the majestic fountain Didyma, built in 1777 and a marvelous stone arch-bridge of 1891.
Kalamos
Kalamos is a coastal settlement, at the south of Lefokastro. It impresses the visitors with its scenic colors and its simple but elegant beauty. There are grand stone cottages and a small stream which flows into the sea. In the center of the village we find the beautiful church of Agia Paraskevi and the chapels of Holy Trinity and Holy Mary
Argalasti
Argalasti is the local reference center of the entire area of Southern Pelion. As an administrative and financial center since the past, it used to accommodate the headquarters of the Municipality of Kallikratis from 1999 until 2010. In ancient times, there used to be many well-organized settlements such as Olizona, Sipiada and Spalatha. Moreover, Argalasti was a haven for Epirotes, Thessalians and Roumelians and it was developed as a distinct community in a Turkish paper in 1653. During the Ottoman rule, the area showed rapid financial evolution due to the silk production.
The settlement extends in the heart of a fertile valley, surrounded with beautiful olive groves. The neighboring villages of Kalamos, Lefokastro and Chorto used to be its seaport and trade stations. Today, it counts around 1300 citizens.
In the town square of the village, looms the church of Agioi Apostoloi – Petros kai Pavlos, built in 1886. Its worth to see the astonishing marble steeple which bears a beautiful clock and it’s built following the architectural style of Agia Foteini in Izmir. Another hidden gem of the area is the recently renovated Girls’ school, where the famous poet and scholar Kostas Varnalis used to be principal.
Argalasti provides the visitors with several facilities, such as markets, taverns and accommodation. It serves as a well-organized station for exploration of the broader area of Southern Pelion.
Tips
Although the section from Afissos to Lefokastro follows a surfaced road, it offers a enjoyable experience, running near the bright coastline and through well maintained olive groves.
While you ascend to Argalasti, remember to look upon the well-preserved cobbled alleys.
Warnings
This path crosses many other trail sections of the local hiking network.
Along the trail we find many circular marks of the club 'Friends of Kalderimi of South Pelion'.
