Greek Volunteers Revitalize Historic Trails in Tsagarada
Volunteers in Tsagarada, a sprawling Greek village, are revitalising its historic trails. These paths, known as kalderimia, serve as lifelines for the community and connect it to stunning beaches like Damouchari and Mylopotamos. The Tsagarada Tourism and Development Association, established in 2012, is leading these efforts to boost tourism and preserve the region's cultural and natural heritage.
The association, with 37 active members, is rebuilding and upgrading the cobblestone paths that crisscross Tsagarada's four districts. These paths, once damaged by Storm Daniel, are being restored with the help of volunteers, including village president Leon Ioannou and deputy mayor Nikos Kampouris. The work includes repairing retaining walls and clearing pathways, ensuring safe access to the village's centrally located plane trees and schools like Nanopouleio and Achillopouleios Commercial.
The trails of Pilio, of which Tsagarada is a part, are vital arteries connecting mountain villages with the coast. They lead to beaches and serve as an open-air museum of nature, with stone paths, centuries-old plane trees, and local lore about maîtres. The association's work also includes restoring sections of different kalderimia, such as the detour and wooden bridge in the gorge leading to Fakistra, and stone steps and ropes protecting hikers near the Hidden School and Chapel of PanAgia Megalomata. Meanwhile, neighboring villages like Mouresi and Kissos keep traditions alive with local events like the Chestnut Festival in Xorychti, attracting visitors and newcomers who open businesses like the wine bar Anapodo Platanos and art workshop Erottera.
The Tsagarada Tourism and Development Association's efforts are not only restoring the village's historic trails but also boosting tourism and preserving the region's unique culture and natural beauty. With the support of volunteers and the community, these vital arteries of Tsagarada will continue to connect the village to its past and future.