Caving

Información

An exciting day of fun and discovery will reveal a hidden gem so close to Athens. Pana’s cave got its name from the worshiping of the Nymphs and Pana, the ancient peoples’ cloven hoofed ("tragopodaros") divinity, patron of mountains, forests, caves, and flocks. This cave also named “Lichnospilia”, because 2,000 oil lamps were found by an archaeological survey.

The cave of Panas is located on the left slope of the Goura ravine at an altitude of 620 meters, at the south-west foothills of Mt.Parnitha near Athens. As soon as we arrive at the starting point we will initially hike until we reach the impressive Keladona gorge. Our mood changes as we enter the gorge where we will walk by the river side and through the very tall and imposing fir trees, plane trees, chestnut trees etc. There we will take a break for a snack by the river side.

When we approach the cave we will get ready for a rappel (abseiling) activity. Our guides will help us wear all necessary equipment (helmets and safety harnesses) in order to go down the rock of about 10m height. As we go down, we are already in front of the almost full of plane trees entrance of the cave. The cave consists of two chambers that connect with each other by a very narrow and low passage. In order to pass through to the other chamber, we have to crawl! The rare nircipfagus (small aquatic animal) live in the spring and in the full stalactite basins of the first chamber. The second chamber has a wonderful basin decorated by stalactite material. After visiting the cave we will hike back to the point where we left our car and then return back to Athens center.

Meeting/pick-up point: Hotel pick-up.
Duration: 5 to 6 hours.
Pick-up time: Between 9am and 9:30am.
Drop-off time: Between 2:30 and 3:30pm.
Languages: English.
Others: We recommend you to bring a small backpack, trainers, a second t-shirt in case of getting sweat, a waterproof jacket / membrane (for rainy days), a hat (for sunny days), water and a camera.