On Sunday, November 16, 2025, the Hellenic Mountaineering Club of Molai & Southeastern Laconia (E.O.S. M.N.A.L.) will embark on an exciting hiking expedition in Arcadia, specifically along the trail known as the «Path of Healing,» which connects the village of Ampelionas to the Temple of Epicurius Apollo.
The hike begins in the traditional village of Ampelionas, nestled amphitheatrically among chestnut and oak forests, marking the border between Messinia and Arcadia. This picturesque setting serves as the starting point for the «Path of Healing,» a route that invites hikers to immerse themselves in nature and history, culminating at the sacred monument of Epicurius Apollo.
Leaving Ampelionas behind, the trail ascends through a dense chestnut forest, home to many ancient chestnut trees. The ascent is gentle and pleasant, often shaded by the trees. As the forest opens up, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Lycaean and Tetrazio (Nomia) mountains that encircle the area.
The journey continues towards the village of Skliros, traversing a small plateau adorned with ancient oaks. From the Pontika area, the path descends towards Skliros. In the village square, one can find the statue of Nikolaos Bozinakis, a leader of the 1821 Revolution.
From Skliros, a wide, gently ascending path leads to the majestic Temple of Epicurius Apollo in Bassae, Figalia. The journey through this natural landscape is serene, gradually revealing the impressive temple, which is nestled within the embrace of the mountains.
The temple is one of the most significant monuments of antiquity, designed by Ictinus, the architect of the Parthenon. Constructed around 420–410 B.C., it was the first Greek temple to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.
Built on the foundations of an earlier archaic temple, the site housed a miraculous wooden statue of the Basileus Apollo. The Figalians dedicated the temple to Apollo as a gesture of gratitude for his assistance in overcoming a plague epidemic.
Symbolically, the journey from Ampelionas to the Temple represents a transition from trial to healing, from the forest and earth to the sun and light of Apollo.
Participants are required to bring essential gear, including hiking boots, a hat, a headlamp, sunglasses, a backpack with personal items, at least one liter of water, energy snacks (such as nuts, energy bars, or sesame candy), and most importantly, a positive attitude and team spirit.
Meeting point: Afoi Panagiotopoulos (old) in Molai at 7:00 a.m. Transportation will be by car to Ampelionas, Messinia.
To participate, it is necessary to contact the coordinators by phone no later than Saturday (November 15) at noon. Coordinators: Tasos Kokkono 6977775682, Angeliki Ploumidis 6976654578.
