Aghia Sotira Walk – 2nd April

Another chance to lead one of my favourite new walks from Aghia Sotira, just north of Petalithi.

Although a relatively short walk at just over 10 kilometers, it takes in two deserted villages, a ruined castle, a folk museum (when you can find the lady with the key) and some great views.

First stop was the deserted village of Peran, where the church and one of the houses have now been restored, but many fabulous stone houses are falling apart.

After hiking up a rather steep hill, stopping half way at a conveniently placed church, we ate our
lunch on top of the ruined Frankish castle of Leone, completely surrounded by wild flowers…

Before heading on to Kastania and down through the second deserted village of the day – Peristari.

Today, the yellow gorse was particularlly magnificent,

as were the Judas trees…..

not to mention the carpets of tiny pink flowers everywhere….

and a few others as well…..

We were so lucky with the weather, as the rain clouds held off until the end of our walk…

although there was another bit of excitement on the track….

this little chap was about six inches long – note the horned nose! Spring is here….tread carefully!