Bridge of Paleokarya

Palaiokarya’s Stone Bridge is probably the most photogenic stone bridge in Greece. It is an imposing bridge with an amazing waterfall behind, which attracts dozens of tourists every year. It is located in a magical place surrounded by beautiful nature, just 30 km from the city of Trikala, Thessaly. This is off the beaten path, but worth if you are nearby and have some extra time. The single-arched bridge was built in the 16th century, is 35 meters long and spans over Paleokariotis River. The waterfall behind the bridge is 12 meters high and the falling water compose a water curtain and a natural pool in front. The water is freezing cold but you can swim if you are brave enough. If not, you can sit on the rocks and enjoy the view. The water of the river runs through the gorge and feeds an old watermill that is still in use, and a “dristela”, an ecological washing "machine" where fabrics used to be washed in the old days.

In the past, the imposing stone bridge offered a safe passage for those travelling from Thessaly to Epirus. It was a busy route of that time connecting Pyli and the surrounding villages with Aspropotamos and vice versa. Today, the bridge is no longer used for transportation, but it is a significant monument for the area of Pyli, perfectly harmonized with the nature that surrounds it. The beautiful bridge is framed by steep high rocks and dense vegetation consisting of shrubs and riparian trees. A few meters away, there is a recreation area where you can sit and relax, while you listen to the sound of running water and rustling leaves. It is a perfect place for outdoor dining if you are nature lover and you are seeking a natural paradise to spend your day.

At short distance, there used to be an old inn and a bit further away a small settlement the houses of which are now submerged under the water of a lake formed by the construction of dam, back in 1975. In recent years, the place has become very popular through social media and is often flooded with professional and amateur photographers who come here to catch some great shots with their cameras and mobile phones. To reach the stone bridge is fairly easy. Drive through Pyli village towards Stournareika and follow the signs you will find on your way. After you exit the main road, a dirt track, around 100 meters long, will take you to this magnificent place. The bridge is close to some other local spots such as the thriving village of Ropoto which turned into a ghost village after a landslide in 2012, an old watermill and the historic Bridge of Pyli which is equally beautiful and offers great photo opportunities too.