Evritania Villages: Mikro Chorio, The generosity of nature

Mikro Chorio of Evritania, profound sentiments. An alternative suggestion for a journey to Evritania that will bring you nearer to the wilderness, far from the city’s pace, the clamor, and the congestion. In search of a unique experience, we chose this time not to remain in Karpenisi, a haven for tireless adventurers, and to venture a few kilometers further. After all, the area’s primary attraction is within arm’s reach, and whatever you desire is merely minutes away. Consequently, our primary destination and the starting point for tours and activities is Mikro Chorio.

Karpenisi: A journey for restless explorers

The bountiful Mikro Chorio of Evritania

Trip to Mikro Chorio — The uphill road leading to Mikro Chorio

Mikro Chorio is precisely what its name suggests. One… petite hamlet. Petite, yet abundant in what it provides to the visitor. Once you’ve located the lodging where you’ll spend the planned days and you’ve already experienced the initial sensation of ascending the uphill road that will lead you to your dwelling, you commence exploration.

Mikro Chorio - Evritania — Nature is generous in Mikro Chorio of Evritania

Sporting footwear, cozy attire, and a hat are suitable clothing at this moment. The environment embraces and greets you. The hues of the seasons, the flowing waters, and the aroma of the earth create a simplistic yet distinctive ambiance. The victory of nature, effortlessly. Perhaps because in certain areas there is no human interference.

River in Mikro Chorio — In Mikro Chorio, you become one with nature

You can descend to the entrance of Mikro Chorio and continue your stroll. Nature remains bountiful, as demonstrated by the extensive photographic material displayed from the journey to Evritania.

From Mikro Chorio to Megalo Chorio

Adjacent to Mikro Chorio, opposite to be more accurate, is Megalo Chorio. Megalo Chorio is constructed at an elevation of 720 meters on the slopes of Mount Kaliakouda, amidst a dense fir forest. The distance is approximately 4 km, on a relatively uphill path. As soon as you arrive at your destination, you park the vehicle in the spacious municipal parking lot situated at the village’s entrance.

Megalo Chorio - Evritania — Megalo Chorio offers enchanting routes in nature

From that point on, until you retrieve your vehicle, you move on foot. You can initiate your stroll from the wooden bridges on your left, as you gaze at the village’s center. The narrow trails, the flowing waters, and the lush nature have already set the mood. If you opt for this path, you will find yourself after a 15-minute leisurely walk in the square of Megalo Chorio.

Megalo Chorio square — In the square of Megalo Chorio

And somewhere there, it’s time for a… Significant halt: to savor dessert in the square’s shops - with the bonus of the truly breathtaking view. Plates with galaktoboureko and trunk will fill your table and rakomelo for the most affectionate. Alongside your companions, you will better enjoy the services of the shops if there aren’t many people. Otherwise, you will need to exhibit a bit more patience because you will be served. The outcome in both scenarios, of course, will be identical. Relish, whatever you select!

Megalo Chorio - Mikro Chorio — Seeing from Megalo Chorio, Mikro Chorio

Tip: Those who exercise or walk for fitness, should attempt to make the route Mikro Chorio - Megalo Chorio on foot. They will “manage” with the uphill initially, but will descend more pleasantly when they are more fatigued. The scenes they encounter are unparalleled! Within an hour or something, you will have completed the go–come and enjoy afterward a warm bath, coffee, or hot tea. Truly a delightful experience.

The "Battle of the Mikro Chorio"

The monument next to the church of Mikro Chorio reminds us of what happened in December 1942

In this sacred location, a significant battle transpired during the Occupation between ELAS forces (II WW Greek resistance forces) and the Italians, also referred to as the “Battle of Mikro Chorio”. On December 18, 1942, ELAS men ambushed and attacked an Italian regiment operating in the area. The surprise attack inflicted heavy casualties and damage on the enemy, but the reprisals were severe. The Italians set fire to houses in the village and executed the hostages they had captured.

Activities for children

Saloon Park in Evritania — Young and old can go horse riding at Saloon Park

A short distance from Mikro Chorio, you can engage in several activities - and we’re not just talking about a walk in Karpenisi. There are also delightful surprises, especially if children are part of the group. Two theme parks offer a variety of activities. Newton Park and Saloon Park. In the first park, Newton Park, children can learn about the laws of physics while having fun. The second, Saloon Park, is more recreational and offers horseback rides (for both young and old), climbing, canoeing, and rollercoaster. The area for a coffee, snack, or refreshment is lovely, and the entrance is free.

Kefalovryso Evritania — In Kefalovryso village in Evritania, in a battle against the Turks, Markos Botsaris lost his life in 1823

If you reach Saloon Park, just opposite a distance of 1.5 km, the road will lead you to Kefalovryso. There is a small park, with a cafe or food shop and a trout farm. This area holds particular significance for the years of the Greek Revolution of 1821 as it is where Markos Botsaris fell heroically, battling against the Turks on August 9, 1823.

Time to Dine in Mikro Chorio

In Mikro Chorio, we sampled food in two taverns. One is situated just after the entrance of the village and the other before we enter the village. In both, we tasted delightful flavors with the fireplace glowing. But what did we discover? In the one that is in the village, it is worth trying the grilled dishes. For the one outside, trust the stews with your eyes closed!

Karpenisi - Athens distance — The trip from Athens to Karpenisi is 3 hours and 30 minutes

How to get from Athens: The distance from Karpenisi to Athens is 282 km, and the trip will last approximately three hours and thirty minutes. Take the National Road Athens - Lamia and before Lamia, follow the signs. The route, as you get closer to your destination, sets the mood for what you will encounter. Lush nature begins to reveal itself. You may encounter clouds or even fog, which will make the winter landscape even more enchanting. Mikro Chorio of Evritania is located 12 km after Karpenisi.