The village of Pavliani (also called Ano Pavliani to differentiate it from Nea Pavliani, which is 1.5 kilometers lower) is situated at an altitude of 1,040m on the slopes of Mount Oiti. Mountain climbers and hikers have long been familiar with the area, enjoying the National Park and its proximity to Mount Giona and Vardousia. There were few visitors and rudimentary infrastructure but, about thirty years ago, local youth, volunteers, and residents began to maintain the area, establishing the Pavliani Recreation Park at the source of the Asopos River With its quirky signage, miniature bridges, and brightly colored structures that blend in perfectly with the forest, this park brought new life to the village and made Pavliani a popular tourist destination for both kids and adults.
Gradually, over the years, treehouses, trampolines, zip lines for crossing the stream and wooden benches were added to the swings and hammocks already contained within the park, whose entrance is located between the two settlements. The path is easy and perfect for families, with fir and plane trees providing shade. You can walk as far as you like before heading back, but there are also circular routes that may be a little more challenging. One of these leads to the Throne of Zeus, an iron structure built in a location that offers beautiful views – another addition made by residents and volunteers.
© Dimitra Vergitsi/Unsplash
© Dimitra Vergitsi/Unsplash
Of course, the National Park and mountainous landscape provide numerous opportunities for those who wish to explore and hike further. The Oiti Shelter, located just 8km from Pavliani, features a children’s adventure park as well as a café-restaurant. The route from Pavliani to the village of Athanasios Diakos is another enjoyable drive (28km) through hillsides and dense forests.
