A small paradise for nature lovers, a well-kept secret, an unexplored canyon with a waterfall and rich flora, hides the foothills of Arakynthos mountainsopposite Aetoliko.

It took an hour’s hike to get there. Together with Lambros Harelos, a member of the Department of Environmental Awareness, of the “Aitoliko” Association, we met on the old national road. The sunny spring day creates feelings of harmony in the sounds of nature that dominate the path to the gorge.

“The gorge is supervised by the Management Unit of the Messolonghi National Park of OFYPECA, as the whole area is protected”, reports Lambros Harelos to APE-MPE and points out that the place has many beautiful places to highlight.

Entering the unknown gorge of Paleorolakas, sounds of running water can be heard. A pair of Golden Eagles take flight over the steep rocks. Lambros explains to us how they are the only pair in the area and adds that there are also some vultures living there.

The rock formations are impressive. It is an imposing rocky image that inspires awe. As we proceed through the canyon we encounter streams and small waterfalls, while next to the path we see loggerhead turtles, an endemic species in our country that is protected.

On the route we come across remains of water mills that used to exist in the area. They are ruined stone buildings, which tell the walker the history of the place.

The view of the unknown waterfall, in the heart of the gorge, impresses. The waters fall with a rush from a height of about 20 meters and create a small blue-green lake. The environment emits a healing energy.

The gorge of Paleorolakas, although it stretches in a protected area, has not been explored. For those who are nature lovers or climbers, the path between the rocks and the waterfall is a revelation.