Report of the Children’s Maintenance Hike

In the circular route of Menites

Text: Dimitra Pappa

Photos: Sofia Stalboutzi, Sofia Kozanidou, Despoina Petta

On Sunday, April 26, a children’s maintenance hike took place along the circular route of Menites, in collaboration with the Menites Association. A total of 25 children aged 5–14 participated, along with their accompanying adults, coming from Chora, Menites, Mesathouri, Mesaria, Pitrofos, Gavrio, Ateni, as well as from Switzerland, bringing a lively and joyful atmosphere to the sunny day.

During the hike, trail maintenance work was carried out mainly by the adults, including collecting garbage, cutting back branches and clearing vegetation that was covering signs and trail markers, thus contributing to the accessibility and safety of the path. At the same time, the children took part in an interactive exploration game with challenges, riddles, and role-playing activities, taking on the mission to help the Fairy of the Springs find her lost magic wand.

Following the route, the young explorers discovered the village, the river, and the old watermills, explored caves and unique natural spots, listened closely to the sounds of the landscape, “drew strength” from the earth, and, most importantly, worked together with enthusiasm and imagination. Their effort was successfully completed when they managed to find the fairy’s wand and, standing together in a circle, each child held it in turn and made a wish for the water, bringing their shared adventure to a symbolic and heartfelt close.

Children’s participation in such activities is especially important, as it strengthens their connection with nature, fosters environmental awareness, and develops skills such as cooperation, observation, and creative thinking through experience and play.

A big thank you goes to the Menites Association and especially to its president, Despoina Petta, for the ongoing care and maintenance of the trail, the beautiful stories shared with the children, and the treat that followed at the association’s venue after the hike.

The next maintenance hike will take place in two weeks in Northern Andros. More details will be announced soon.