The Olympic Athletic Center of Athens bares the name of the first winner of the Marathon in the first modern Olympic Games in Athens in 1896, the notorious Spyros Louis, who in fact was a simple waterman from Maroussi. The construction of the premises started in 1978 and the main Stadium and the other installations were inaugurated four years later to house the European Athletics Championship in 1982.
The following years a number of other sport facilities surrounded the Main Olympic Stadium: the Olympic Velodrome (inaugurated in 1991), the Olympic Aquatics Center (1991), the Olympic Indoor Sports Center (1995), the Olympic Tennis Center (2004), as well as other supplementary sport facilities. The Olympic Athletic Center of Athens is a state-of-the-art sports facility, which greatly promoted sports activities in Greece. The facilities were finalised in 2004, with the redevelopment additions by the Spanish architect Kalatrava, and the Stadium hosted the Athens 28th Olympic Games in 2004.
OAKA web site: www.oaka.com.gr
Source: www.athensattica.gr
The impressive Panathenaic Stadium is also known as the Kallimarmaro (“the one made with beautiful marble”). Founded in the 4th century under the rule of Lycourgos, on the slopes of Ardittos hill, it was restored and expanded by Hadrian Atticus. Following the city’s decline during the Christian era, and the Franc and Ottoman occupations, the stadium gradually fell into disrepair, eventually being buried under tons of dirt.
But the site was excavated and the ancient stadium was fully restored in time to host the first Modern Olympic Games in 1896. Since that time, the stadium has been connected to all major sports events in Greece. As a tribute to the original Marathon run, the Marathon International road race, held annually to commemorate Spyros Louis’ marathon victory at the first modern Olympic Games, ends here. The stadium was also the finishing point of the Athens, 2004 Olympic Games Marathon.
Stadium site: www.panathenaicstadium.gr
Source: www.athensattica.gr
A great way to discover a new place is actually on two wheels. Arcadia, with its stunning nature, does offer visitors this unique opportunity. The changes in the landscape, the lush vegetation, the dense forests and the hidden traditional settlements are only few of the natural attractions a visitor can enjoy with just a bike and the desire for exploration. Around the city of Tripolis, as well as in the Arcadian villages, there are many beautiful trails, which are ideal for relaxing bike rides. However, for the adventurous types, we recommend some more difficult routes, which can also be guided:*
Rizes in Tegea – Prophet Elias
The route begins from the main square of Rizes, in the region of Tegea, and terminates in the chapel of Prophet Elias, which dominates the homonymous hill, about 10 kilometers away. The trip takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes and it’s quite challenging. However the stunning scenery will certainly bedazzle you, since the entire trail goes through the pine forest.
Tripolis – Kastri – Agios Petros – Coastal Astros
A demanding 4 hour and 78 kilometres long trail that passes through the most beautiful villages of Kynouria.
Mount Mainalo Α1 DH Trail
A demanding and adventurous trail that starts from the lodge of the Greek Mountaineering Club in Mainalo and terminates in the northeastern part of the mountain. It lasts for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, with few intermediate necessary stops. Within the first 500 meters of the trail you will probably need to carry your bicycle, since the soil might occasionally be unstable. The next part, which is about 3,5 kilometers long, is also difficult, while the trail becomes easier in its last section, since it’s straight and you will be able to accelerate.
Mount Mainalo Α2 DH Trail
This is yet another trail for advanced bikers, about 8.6 kilometres long, with a duration of approximately one hour. It starts from the back side of the ski slopes of Mainalo and terminates in Levidi, passing through the Kapeli Plateau. The trail is fully marked and includes ramps, mounds and jumps.
Mount Mainalo Α4 DH Trail
A short trail, about 4 kilometers long, which starts from the Rouchoi Plateau and heads towards Vytina. It lasts for about 30 minutes and passes through the fir forest. It’s quite demanding, however, and it’s not recommended for beginners!
Mount Mainalo A2 Rouchoi Tour
A trail of medium difficulty, about 16.5 kilometers long, with a duration of approximately 2 hours. The starting point is the trail A2, then goes through the Kapeli Plateau, descends towards Vytina and heads towards the Rouchoi Plateau, where you will arrive after a hard ascent. From there you will follow a downhill trail, which will lead you to the lodge of Mainalo.
* Information taken from Arcadia M.T.B. Club
Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr
Lousios and Alfeios
These two rivers, Alfeios and its tributary Lousios, flow along a continuously changing landscape in a breathtaking scenery of stunning natural beauty. The activities organized by various associations and clubs aim to bring visitors into close contact with the unique beauty of this region, also combining sports and recreation. Rafting is a very pleasant way to explore the region, regardless of your familiarity with the sport, since there are routes for every level; from beginners to highly experienced rafters.
The routes normally take approximately three to four hours and pass through gorges and natural tunnels, formed by trees, creating a stunning backdrop. The lush vegetation, the various and impressive species of birds, like falcons and herons, the stone arched bridges, the waterfalls that flow into the river, as well as the unique natural sculptures the water has carved into the rocks, all contribute to the amazing experience you will have in Arcadia. It is certainly something you don’t want to miss.
Ano Lousios
Ano Lousios also offers one of the most difficult, yet extremely interesting rafting routes in Greece. It’s suitable only for very experienced rafters or for those who are trained to become rafting guides. When the river is swollen, rafters need to be particularly cautious, since the waters become impetuous.
Erymanthos
Erymanthos is another tributary of Alfeios, as well as a natural boundary between the prefectures of Ilia and Arcadia, and is yet another river suitable for relatively difficult descents. Previous experience is recommended, as well as a pretty good physical stamina. The descent lasts for approximately five to seven hours and there are two recommended starting points: the first from Tripotama and to Vidiaki -after 15 kilometers- and the second from Vidiaki to Elaia -after 8 kilometers.
Other activities
In addition to rafting, the rivers are also ideal for various other activities. Adventurous types can indulge in hydrospeed and enjoy a unique experience with just a pair of fins and a board. You can also go for monoraft, where you cross the river with a one-seater raft, which is something equally exciting. You can also go for rappel and cross the gorges with special ropes, which will help you descend to the vertical waterfalls.
The less adventurous will enjoy unique routes, exploring the shores of the rivers, as well as the surrounding areas with the lush vegetation and scenic settlements. Whatever you decide to do, you can obtain information, guidance and the necessary equipment from any relevant association, club or company in the region.
The routes are suitable for every level of experience. You can address one of the numerous associations or clubs that will recommend the right one for you, based on your physical stamina and experience. They will also provide you with the proper equipment, as well as guidance for your safe descent.
Source: www.mythicalpeloponnese.gr