“Rack” or “Cog” railway comes from the cog wheels these trains use that mesh in the rack rail, helping them to operate on steep grade (rack-and-pinion)
I came across with an e-invitation for the annual panhellenic crossing of Vouraikos few years before. Since then I had never managed to be present on any of those meetings although my interest was enormous! So, one Sunday morning, I decided to do it by myself and, finally, to get it out of my bucket list. I gathered some info in advance about the area and I went for it. In addition, in the midst of summertime I thought that would be a good idea to combine the trip to Vouraikos along with a visit to Tsivlou Lake, one of my most recent “web discoveries”.
Vouraikos
Vouraikos river springs from Helmos mountain and it forms a canyon by the same name. Along the gorge there is, also, a rack railway connection between Diakopto and Kalavryta; first established in March 1896. The aptitude is quite big so the use of jagged railroad is necessary.
At Diakopto’s central square I caught the odontotos (that’s the greek name to cog train!) to Zachlorou, which was the starting point for my hiking. A scenic retro style ride and a unique hike. Steep rocks, white water rivers, tunnels and iron bridges make the experience at least memorable.
Tsivlos
At the bottom are still the ruins of the houses of the old village but water, unfortunately, is blurry.
Helmos hosts one of the most beautiful lakes (800m high). Tsivlou lake was formed in 1912 by a landslide, when Krathis river flooded. It is surrounded by trees and it makes an exquisite landscape full of peace and tranquillity. A small taverna by the lake covers any possible appetite for food or drinks. There is also accommodation available.
From sea level to 720 m in 22.3 km with a maximum gradient of 17.5% and 750mm width
Few tips…
I tried to follow the path to the Monastery of Megalo spylaio but after half an hour I found it slightly boring and monotonous, so I went back to Zachlorou.
Take the first morning ride to avoid as possible the heat during summerdays.
It would be a good idea to check the rest of the train itineraries in order to know when & where to expect your train meetings along the hiking.
There are no water taps along the route.
Hiking boots are recommended since rail rocks is not so… hiking friendly!
