Mount Pelineo

Temperatures steady decrease in Greece and it is already too cold for going swimming. For those of you who nevertheless prefer being active instead of sitting at home we can highly recommend a trip to Pelineo which is the highest mountain of Chios Island.

This mountain is situated in the North of Chios and overtops the sea level for 1297 m. Therefore, Pelineo and the surrounding mountains constitute an interesting contrast to the flat Aegean Sea. In the past, it was almost fully covered with pine trees which got destroyed by burns caused by the heat in the last decades.

 If you are an elated adventurer a hiking tour in the region of Pelineo is perfect for you, because a lot of routes with different degrees of difficulties lead you to its top.

On the way up the mountain you pass different buildings and sights which make your tour more interesting. When you start e.g. in the small northern village Viki  you will probably spot a spring which provides you with fresh drinking water after the first  - a bit exhausting - rise.
In case you decide to begin your sportive tramp in Pitios in the East you get the opportunity to visit  ghost town Kardamyla before hiking up the mountain road as well as a pretty chapel known as Panagia Theotokina.

A little bit more in the central South of the mountainous area of Pelineo there is a ravine near Agios Giorgis Florianos and an imposing cave. Following this route you will easily notice the Old Women’s piles of rocks which are rated 2100 years old and are founded in many legends – for instance as construction to honor the goodness Homer. Preferentially, people who are used to climbing should use this rocky, sometimes difficult accessible ascent.

No matter which way you choose a breathtaking, amazing view over whole Chios Island as well as the impressive church Agia Triada with its altar for the god Dias is your reward in the end.
So don’t hesitate to experience Mt. Pelineo with its versatile, picturesque routes full of history, striking nature and religious places!  It is worth it!