The “Cypress Trail” is one of the three walking trails in Fiskardo that were recently organised by “Asteris” club along with the Panhellenic “Greece’s Paths” team.
The trail follows the old footpath, passing cypress-filled slopes on either side. As you walk take in the view over the channel that separates Kefalonia from Ithaca to Foki bay. The name of Foki comes from the frequent appearance of the monk seal (Fokia in Greek) Monachus Monachus. Continuing along the coast road you will see the signpost for the beautiful tiny village of Tselentata, with the pre-earthquake houses, populated by less than 30 people. Stop to look in the church of saint Gerassimos – it has some interesting enamel flooring, and Russian icons.
From Tselentata head upwards towards the village of Katsarata. Before you reach the brow of the hill you will pass over over large, smooth slabs of rock. The views from this point are vast and you can see the Ionian sea, Lefkada, Meganissi, the Greek mainland and Ithaca. Follow the dirt track out of Katsarata towards Spiliovouno (Cave Mountain). The windmill here was still in use until the 1950s, and in the now-abandoned village, you can find remnants of the past such as an old olive mill.
Heading onwards and back to the starting point of Fiskardo you will pass a number of caves (hence the name Cave Mountain) where the worship of Pan and the Nymphs once took place. There are also traces of a Cyclopean wall – large stones – nearby.
The guided option from an experienced guide is highly recommended, as a more exciting and certainly safer option. Whatever your interests and level of fitness we can arrange your ideal hiking day or even holiday in Kefalonia. Contact us to book a unique day out in Kefalonian nature!
