You don’t need to be a canoe/kayak professional, an experienced hiker, or a skilled climber in order to enjoy the outdoor activities in Aitoloakarnania. It won’t take long for any of this region’s visitors to feel an irresistible urge to explore.

Keeping in Step with Nature

The incomparable natural environment of Aitoloakarnania is ideal for hiking enthusiasts who want to get better acquainted with the generous wealth and astonishing beauty of Greek nature. The footpaths of Mountainous Nafpaktia, which includes crossing the great expanse of an oak, chestnut, and fir tree forest, lead you to some truly incredible sights. The mountain range of Panaitoliko and the ridge of Mount Arakynthos, two Natura accredited areas, will seduce you with their lush vegetation and sweeping views. Go trekking to the twin waterfalls of Mokistianos or wander around Lesini forest, west of Acheloos, and admire the rare ash trees and the impressive silver poplars. In Klokova, challenging climbs beckon the bold mountaineers while in Varasova, the rock face certainly gives abseilers plenty of opportunity to test their skills. Then again, if mountain biking is your thing, Trikorfo and the mountain villages west of Panaitoliko are just the location for making memories on two wheels.

Taming the Waters

From its verdant banks, the river Evinos invites visitors for rafting in its hospitable waters or for paddling around in a canoe or kayak at a more leisurely pace. Gorgeous lake Trichonida, incorporated into the European Natura 2000 program, will carry its visitors on a tide of enthusiasm for rowing, wakeboarding, and waterskiing. For those who fancy themselves as more adroit on a pair of water skis, Stratos lake with its National Centre and world class trainers is a tempting option.

Aitoloakarnania from Above!

For those who are not afraid of heights, many argue that Aitoloakarnania can be best viewed from the sky. Try hang gliding in the area around Thermo or paragliding on Empesos or at a specially designated venue in Petrochori with a view of lake Trichonida.

Herons, Flamingos and Unforgettable Sunsets

There are the grand, if decaying remains of what were once find old homes around Analipsi in the settlement of Kampos, which has a review of Evinos River, known as Fidaris, or snake river because of its shape. (PHOTO: Yianna Antoniou)

After spending a short while in the unique ecosystem of the lagoon of Messolonghi, visitors begin to see the significance of water – the life it cherishes and preserves, the different seasons, even the time of day – in an entirely new light. Simply go with the flow of this rare wetland’s tranquil waters and take a canoe or kayak to magical sand islets in search of flamingos, herons, and a multitude of other seabirds that have made their home there. Literally walk on the water of the lake along the narrow raised track that leads to the picturesque islet of Tourlida and admire the ‘pelades’, the fishermen’s wooden houses that seem to hover over the surface. And in the evening, enjoy the sun setting enchantingly behind the lagoon while you go around the lake on a bicycle to properly enjoy this extravaganza of color marking the day’s end.