A journey from Paleros through the Acarnanian mountains

Your journey through the majestic Akarnanian Mountains begins at the stunning Vatos Plateau, a serene location that captivates visitors with its tranquil beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery, the plateau is a perfect spot to enjoy the peaceful landscape. If you’re lucky, you might spot the golden eagles soaring high in the sky—proud guardians of the region and symbols of its wild spirit.

As you make your way to the Old Varnakas, you’ll find yourself in a deserted village where time seems to stand still. The stone-built houses, all now in ruins, tell silent stories of a once-thriving community. The village, now a relic of a bygone era, was gradually abandoned due to harsh weather conditions and isolation.

At the heart of the village lies the Church of Saint Athanasios, an impressive religious monument built in the 16th century.The church is located in a fortified position surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Boumistos, Perganti, and Agrapidaki mountain range. Today, the old church has been rebuilt, and it is celebrated on May 2nd with beautiful festivities under the shade of the ancient plane tree, which has become the church’s hallmark.

As you leave the Old Varnakas behind and descend toward the seaside village of Mytikas, the landscape transforms dramatically. The rugged mountains give way to the breathtaking expanse of the Ionian Sea. The deep blue waters stretch out before you, with the islands of Kalamos, Ithaca and Kefalonia clearly visible in the distance. This panoramic view is nothing short of mesmerizing, offering a perfect moment of connection with nature.