Hide and seek between sun and clouds over Messinian Gulf just before the dusk
Sometimes nature plays strange games creating unique phenomena; and one of them was almost just on my front door! Numerous theories, myths and urban legends around the pyramid shape peak of a mountain; who could resist?
Taygetus mountain extends its 115kms on the south part of Peloponessos and is strongly related to Greek mythology. Two major cities are lying on each side of the mountain, Sparta on the east and Kalamata on the west. Its pyramid shaped highest peak is considered undoubtedly attractive.
The Trip
A mid-August noon, after a few phone arrangements, I met a friend and drove up to Sparti and, then, to Magganiari sping. Our plan was to follow the east side trail up to the summit (8.5 kms/ 5 hours). Backpacked and the hike begins…
From the Spring to the Refuge
After hiking for two hours by following the trail under the shadow of the trees, we met Taygetus Refuge (1550m high) and E4 trail. Some chance encounters with some wild pigs along the route did not trouble us. All in all, it was a hiking worth going.
Alternatively, you can skip that part by driving on to the old provincial road (11km of dirty road). The Refuge is usually closed but in case someone wishes to spend a night in nature and take advantage of the walking excursions nearby, then they may call Sparta Club (+30 27310 22574).
Refuge to the Summit
Another 3-hour hike, passing through Akonia and Portes, in a steep ascent and we stepped on the Prophet Elias summit (2.407m) -named after the chapel located there- well before dusk.
A German couple and another two guys were already there awaiting the sun to set in order to view the shadow of the Pyramid over the Evrotas valley.
Ingo and Chris kindly shared their wine with us, to mark this way the end of the day. Early sleep since the cold was too severe to be tolerable out of the sleeping bags.
Dawn not be missed since shadowplay on the side of the Messinian bay is something certainly unique and worth-seeing. Probably the most rewarding moment of that particular hike.
Since Greek summer sun is not… hiking friendly, we took the trail back as soon as possible. Descent was way easier, especially under the shadowy forest half way back. Freezing clean water of Magganiari was the most ideal way to end this trip.
