River Neda and its gorge

Crossing Neda Gorge is one of the greatest experiences for nature lovers and hikers. Get the necessary equipment, and enjoy it from June till September.

Photos

Neda, the “female” river of the Peloponnese has its source in the southern slopes of Mount Lykaion, and after 32 km it flows into the Gulf of Kyparissia. Its impressive gorge is an open invitation to one of the most beautiful nature-loving-hiking routes in the Peloponnese, housing, at the same time, a lot of species of fauna and flora. The waters are cold all year round - in fact, as the locals say, whoever swims there won’t get sick during the winter. 

According to myth, Neda was one of the Oceanids nymphs who took care of Zeus, when he was born on the summit of Mount Lykaion. Rea entrusted her with the infant who would become king of gods, to protect him from Cronus’ rage, who swallowed his children, so that they would not overthrow him. The river is mentioned by Pausanias and Hesiod.

Neda is a natural border between Ilia and Messinia, and river-trekking in its gorge let the visitors get to know landscapes of unparalleled beauty. You’ll pass by many different spots: some with lush vegetation, others less fertile, with impressive vertical rocks. You’ll cool down at the small and big waterfalls, forming natural “pools” (vathres). And you’ll discover caves and narrow passages - like Stomio, a “tunnel”, about 100 m long. 
It is accessible from three spots: Figaleia, Agios Sostis and Ampeliona.

If you choose Figaleia, you can easily reach two of the most famous waterfalls of the river.

You’ll go through the village of Platania, and after 4 km, you’ll reach the bridge of Platania or of Stomio. It is thought to have been built during the Ottoman Occupation, and it is one of the beautiful single arched bridges along Neda, some of which have fallen down, though. Hikers crossing the gorge go under it, and a bit further below lies Stomio.

An information panel near the bridge will show you the way, and after a 25-minute hike on an impressive trail, surrounded by lush vegetation, you’ll find yourselves at the first waterfall of 7 m, forming a canyon with emerald green waters.

In close proximity lies the second waterfall, with the water falling from a height of 20 m.

Did you know:

Overall, crossing Neda Gorge lasts 7-8 hours and it takes place in June-September. At many spots, the water will reach your waist.

Several companies that organise river trekking and other outdoor activities are based in the region.

Location

Find the destination on the interactive map below.