Ridomo Gorge in Messinia: An impressive monument of nature

Tygetus is the highest and largest mountain of the Peloponnese. Its highest peak, Prophet Ilias, reaches 2,045 metres and covers an area of ​​almost 2,500 square kilometres. The mountain extends to the former prefectures of Laconia, Arcadia, and Messinia.

There are also other natural attractions worth discovering, especially if you love hiking, such as Ridomo Gorge, which offers an unforgettable experience.

This impressive canyon starts at an altitude of 2,000 metres, more specifically from Neraidovuna, and ends at the coast of Sandova, one of the most beautiful beaches of Messinia.

According to Pausanias, the gorge was known in ancient times as "Hoireios Napi," i.e., the cradle of pigs, as it was an excellent habitat for wild boars.

A popular hiking route starts from the settlement of Pigadia, a village practically uninhabited today.

From Pigadia, it is easy to reach the Pigadiotiko Gefyri, the most recognisable part of the gorge. The bridge has two arches that join the opposite sides of the "Stenome". At that point, two towering rocks about 60 metres high are only 2 metres apart.

Hikers will see a wonderful sight resulting from geological phenomena over time. Fantastic colourful rocks with strong folds, vertical slopes, small springs, and impressive rocks in volume and formations.

All this is complemented by a thriving flora with large trees, lush plants, and an equally interesting fauna, where you might even see wild goats.

In addition to the natural beauties, visitors will encounter traces of human presence, as the gorge once connected the area's inhabitants with Laconia. Beautifully preserved cobblestones and arched bridges make for a charming backdrop, while you'll also see fields once cultivated by residents and remnants of the ascetic presence.

Other routes start from the village of Altomira, which you can read about here and from Gaitses or Koskaraga.

The monastery of Prophet Ilias has a wonderful view At the top of a rocky hill, at a distance of 500 metres from the village of Borio, the Monastery of Prophet Ilias offers a spectacular view towards the Ridomo Gorge.

The monastery above the gorge functioned as an observatory during the Greek Revolution. Inside the church, frescoes date from the 17th century, while the wood-carved iconostasis is considered a work of the 18th century.

Some tips and information for an excursion in the area

The starting point for crossing the gorge is about an hour from Kalamata, 45 minutes from Kardamili, and about 270 kilometres or 3 hours and 45 minutes drive from Athens.

Because the canyon has no cell phone or GPS signal, it's a good idea to let someone know your route in advance.

For the same reason, it is essential not to go alone, as it is to wear good, durable shoes.

The best times to cross it are spring, early summer, and early autumn, when the climatic conditions favour the relatively demanding hiking route.

One of its advantages is that a large part of the route develops in a shaded area.

READ MORE: Andros: The unknown side of the spectacular island.