A lush green route to Chiliadou Beach
How much green can you take in? As much—and more—awaits you in one of Evia’s lesser-known yet equally stunning gorges. In the central part of the island, beneath the imposing slopes of Mount Dirfi and Mount Xirovouni, just before the road and river meet the waters of the Aegean Sea, the Stropones Gorge unfolds as a verdant strip filled with plane trees and chestnuts.
While the area is best known for the scenic drive leading to the famous Chiliadou Beach, hiking offers a wonderful alternative way to reach this pebbled shore.
The route begins in the charming village of Stropones. It is entirely downhill and well-marked, with the trail crossing from one side of the Stroponiatis River to the other. The best time to go is during the summer months, when the water level is low and the cool shade is especially refreshing. Set aside less than four hours to complete the walk, passing small pools and dense vegetation along the way. Cross to the opposite bank of the river by balancing on the large stepping stones, when the water level allows. Take a moment to admire the towering plane trees, listen to the soothing sounds of nature, watch the tadpoles gliding through the water, and breathe in the fresh, oxygen-rich air.
This delightful route—sure to make you feel like a child again—gradually leads you toward its final stretch, where a dirt road turns into asphalt and guides you all the way to the sea. A refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, along with a meal at one of the excellent restaurants you’ll find on Chiliadou Beach, provides the perfect ending to a memorable experience.
Although the route is considered easy, beginners shouldn’t hesitate to contact a local hiking club or hire a mountain guide to accompany them. Keep in mind that during the winter months, the river carries much more water and can become dangerous.
While the area is best known for the scenic drive leading to the famous Chiliadou Beach, hiking offers a wonderful alternative way to reach this pebbled shore.
The route begins in the charming village of Stropones. It is entirely downhill and well-marked, with the trail crossing from one side of the Stroponiatis River to the other. The best time to go is during the summer months, when the water level is low and the cool shade is especially refreshing. Set aside less than four hours to complete the walk, passing small pools and dense vegetation along the way. Cross to the opposite bank of the river by balancing on the large stepping stones, when the water level allows. Take a moment to admire the towering plane trees, listen to the soothing sounds of nature, watch the tadpoles gliding through the water, and breathe in the fresh, oxygen-rich air.
This delightful route—sure to make you feel like a child again—gradually leads you toward its final stretch, where a dirt road turns into asphalt and guides you all the way to the sea. A refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, along with a meal at one of the excellent restaurants you’ll find on Chiliadou Beach, provides the perfect ending to a memorable experience.
Although the route is considered easy, beginners shouldn’t hesitate to contact a local hiking club or hire a mountain guide to accompany them. Keep in mind that during the winter months, the river carries much more water and can become dangerous.
