A mountain escape in the heart of Evia
Who says Evia is only about seaside towns, sunny tables, and ouzo with seafood meze? Away from the sea, in its mountainous interior, you’ll find mountainous villages that offer an alternative kind of escape—one that is sure to captivate you. Little-known Setta (also spelled Seta), perched on the slopes of Mount Xirovouni at an altitude of around 800 metres, is the island’s highest village. In winter, it is often blanketed in snow, while in summer it enjoys refreshingly cool temperatures.
Surrounded by a dense fir forest enriched with chestnut, walnut, and apple trees cultivated by locals, Setta is an ideal destination for reconnecting with nature. Take a stroll through the village, where traditional and newer houses coexist alongside tavernas and fountains with fresh spring water. Enjoy the cool village square shaded by plane trees, and find out about the performances held at the Setta Theatre "Nikos Papakonstantinou".
Then, immerse yourself in the rich natural surroundings: head to the area of Panagia Ampoudiwtissa by car or on foot and enjoy the idyllic scenery along the nearby stream. You can walk through the fir forest on a lovely trail leading to a cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the artificial lake of Setta. Off-road enthusiasts know that starting from Setta, they can embark on thrilling excursions. A 12 km dirt road through pine forest leads to Mistro, while another route of 15–20 km takes you to Metochi, passing through fir-covered landscapes with views over the Aegean Sea.
For a longer excursion, try the impressive 30 km dirt route to the famous village of Steni, offering continuous views of the imposing Mount Dirfi. Embrace the dust and the thrill of the journey—then explore the lush surroundings or enjoy a meal at one of the area’s renowned tavernas.
Surrounded by a dense fir forest enriched with chestnut, walnut, and apple trees cultivated by locals, Setta is an ideal destination for reconnecting with nature. Take a stroll through the village, where traditional and newer houses coexist alongside tavernas and fountains with fresh spring water. Enjoy the cool village square shaded by plane trees, and find out about the performances held at the Setta Theatre "Nikos Papakonstantinou".
Then, immerse yourself in the rich natural surroundings: head to the area of Panagia Ampoudiwtissa by car or on foot and enjoy the idyllic scenery along the nearby stream. You can walk through the fir forest on a lovely trail leading to a cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites, as well as the artificial lake of Setta. Off-road enthusiasts know that starting from Setta, they can embark on thrilling excursions. A 12 km dirt road through pine forest leads to Mistro, while another route of 15–20 km takes you to Metochi, passing through fir-covered landscapes with views over the Aegean Sea.
For a longer excursion, try the impressive 30 km dirt route to the famous village of Steni, offering continuous views of the imposing Mount Dirfi. Embrace the dust and the thrill of the journey—then explore the lush surroundings or enjoy a meal at one of the area’s renowned tavernas.
