Report of the 14th maintenance hike
on the route Ano Pitrofos – Ano Menites – Menites
Text: Evi Pantazi, Dimitra Pappa
Photos: Anna Voulgari, Filippos Perrakis
English translation: Dimitra Pappa
Under excellent weather and with great team spirit, the maintenance hike of routes 9 & 9b of the Andros Routes network took place on Sunday, October 26th, 2025.
The team gathered at the Menites – Strapouries junction, coordinated by Evi Pantazi. Attendance was taken, and the group boarded two small minibuses heading towards the Olive Museum in Ano Pitrofos. There, the rest of the participants who had gone directly to the starting point joined the group. Introductions followed, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere before setting off.
Participation was particularly high, with 40 hikers of all ages from across the island — Gavrio, Chora, Korthi, Pitrofos, Livadia, Mesathouri, Kypri, Batsi, Menites — as well as friends from Athens, France, and the United States.
A special highlight was the presence of children aged 5 to 15, who walked with enthusiasm, filling the trail with liveliness and joy.
Evi Pantazi, Route Angel of the path, together with Filippos Perrakis, led the group along the Route 9 section. Team members Dimitra Pappa and Anna Voulgari followed, ensuring a smooth pace and safety for everyone.
The hike began with a gentle uphill from Ano Pitrofos, along old stone paths, olive groves, and traditional dry-stone walls. Gradually, the group reached the ridge, where the views towards Chora and the lush green slopes of Andros were breathtaking. Despite some minor delays at the back, the group moved harmoniously, especially after a short rest stop.
The hike continued along Route 9b, descending towards Ano Menites, offering stunning views, shaded ravines, plane trees, and the coolness of flowing water. The path revealed the rich biodiversity of the area — wild plants, flowers, and autumn fruits.
Just before reaching Menites, hikers enjoyed tasting arbutus berries, a sweet and refreshing treat from nature.
Path maintenance focused on small but important interventions. Vegetation was low overall, but one waymark sign was replaced at the start of the route, a fallen wire fence was secured back in place, and several stones were removed or repositioned along the dry-stone walls, improving both safety and accessibility.
The group reached its destination smoothly and with a shared sense of satisfaction for the collective effort.
The hike concluded in the verdant village of Menites, where most participants joined the traditional feast – “choirosfagia” (annual pig feast) organized by the Menites Cultural Association, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Warm thanks are extended to the Menites Association for their hospitality and to all volunteers and participants whose contribution and positive spirit help keep the Andros routes alive, accessible, and beloved by everyone.
Another wonderful maintenance hike came to an end, confirming once again that the trails of Andros remain vibrant pathways connecting people, nature, and tradition. Looking forward to the next one on the 8th of November!
