Text: Giannis Kanakis

Photos: Giannis Kanakis, Sofia Stalboutzi, Katerina Pantazi

English Translation: Katerina Pantazi

On Saturday, December 20, 2025, we carried out the 17th maintenance hike of 2025 on the circular route of Arni. A mountainous, dreamlike route in the hinterland of the central Kouvara mountain range, in some of the most forested and biodiversity-rich areas of Andros.

Ten hikers from Ano Gavrio, Chora, Messaria, Batsi, Fello, as well as from Chania, Athens, and Berlin, gathered at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of Panagia in Balei for the last maintenance hike of the year.

We began walking under a cloudy sky that nonetheless highlighted the beautiful colors of the surrounding nature. We first followed a short section of Route 11 and, passing by the Mazani spring, reached the circular Arni route waymarked as Ar1. We then climbed the lovely path through dense vegetation up to the small chapel of Agios Georgios. There we took a breathe and admired the distinctive construction of the “konakia” (cottages) and, in general, the dry stone buildings of the area. We enjoyed the view of the village and took photos together.

We then descended through an “enchanted” forest, where we discovered the village’s giant mushrooms—worthy of Papa Smurf’s village—and admired creations of both nature and people. We continued past scattered houses and livestock pens with newborn goats and calves.

Toward the end of the route, we reached the Epameinondas bridge. We couldn’t resist but stopping for the necessary photos, our snacks, and treats that we shared with one another from what each of us had brought (nuts, fruit, pastries, etc.).

The path was in good condition. Litter was minimal (we collected two small bags). In several places the vegetation was lush, but we had the right tools and did plenty of pruning. Everyone was eager to help, so the fatigue was minimal.

Our spirits were high throughout the hike—we laughed, chatted, did the necessary maintenance, and reached the end a little tired but refreshed by the mountain air we breathed, filled with beautiful images and feelings from our time together.

We warmly thank everyone who participated and look forward to our next maintenance hike in the new year.

Happy New Year to all!