Biliovo Cobblestone Pavement

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Biliovo Cobblestone Pavement

Biliovo is considered as one of the most well-preserved traditional cobblestone paths of Greece.  It is located 15km away from Kalamata and connects the villages of Sotirianika and Altomira on the outskirts of Taygetos. Even though it is completely abandoned, the path is in perfect shape apart from two or three parts that require some extra caution. This amazing path was built in 1904 to link the higher with the lower villages of western Mani and is unique of its kind. It was created by local artisans and is classified as a folk architectural monument, therefore is under the protection by the Ministry of Culture and Sports. Carved on steep slope, it was created by rocks with no connective material used at all. The path has a total of 83 turns, 73 of which are U-turns and the slope can be up to 70%. Hike starts from the village of Sotirianika and as you climb up to Altomira, you will enjoy panoramic views of the villages of Mani and the city of Kalamata to the majestic nature of the Messenian Gulf. At the very end of the path, you will find Altomira, a village worth visiting with old stone houses being exceptional examples of the distinctive architecture of Mani. The village is abandoned and since 1999 is under the protection of the Greek Ministry of Culture.

The route from Sotiriana till Altomira has a total length of 4,790 meters and doesn’t present any particular difficulty since incline comes relatively easy on a paved ground. It will take you roughly 1:30-2:10 hours to walk the whole route, depending on your physical condition and the number of stops. The trip is great for adults and teens more than 8 years old and best time to go is during spring or early autumn when it is not so hot. Make sure that you wear climbing shoes and have with you a bottle of water and your camera.