If you want to “change shows” and get in touch with nature, to rejuvenate from the stress of everyday life and professional obligations, then you should definitely visit the magnificent forest of Foloi in the mountainous Ilia.
The escape to the forest with the spectacular and overworked oaks is an unforgettable experience that will provide you with peace and moments of relaxation.
In many places the forest is flat, an ideal choice for either hiking or cycling.
The oak deed is located on the Foloi Plateau, at an altitude of 630 meters, at the southern foot of the Erymanthos Mountains, on the Arcadia-Achaia border, and is 25 km from Ancient Olympia.
In fact, it is a larger oak forest throughout Europe and the only one in the Balkans, covering an area of 42,000 acres.
It has also been included in the European Network of Protected Natura 2000 areas as a Special Protection Area (SPA) for birds and as a special conservation zone (EZD) of natural habitats as well as wildlife and flora species.
The name of the fairytale forest comes from the Centaur Folos who, according to mythology, was a friend of Hercules. The mythical being (with a horse’s body and a human trunk) had hosted the Half Heracles, when the latter killed the Erymanthian boar, a giant wild boar, making it his fourth feat.
Throughout the plateau are dominated by straight and leaf oak (oak), which locals call “caps”, while in the area there are also plane trees, chestnuts and pine trees. In the spring, the forest is literally transformed and changes as they bloom various wildflowers, such as orchids, trees, anemones and lilies.
In addition, the Foloi Plateau is also called “The Balcony of Ilia” because of the impressive view of each visitor from its outskirts in every direction.
Along the routes, you will find hundreds of trails, streams, small glade and picturesque wooden bridges, enabling you to see magical images while crossing the forest between tall trees.
Rivers and streams open canyons of unparalleled beauty, with lush vegetation, with waterfalls and ponds, with caves that forms water forms stalactites and stalagmites, with narrow passes that rise imposing. The most famous of these is the Centaurs Gorge which is a favorite destination for forest visitors.
Therefore, all you have to do is wear comfortable clothes and suitable shoes to explore the forest. The only sure thing is that you will be impressed by the beauty of the landscape, the fresh air, but also the sense of calm under the shadows of the oaks.
In addition, you can combine your hike with a visit to Ancient Olympia to browse the archaeological site and the museum.
Finally, you can make a stop in the village of Lala, 15 km from the forest, so that you can taste traditional food.