Overshadowed only in fame by the most known gorge of the area, “Pantavrechi”, the gorge of Mavri Spilia does not fall short, but stands out as one of the most impressive gorges of central Greece if not of the entire country.
It is found two kilometres away from the village of Proussos. The picturesque stone fountain on the Proussos-Tornos bridge is the starting point.
Following the marked path and the uphill road full of firs you will be led to a landscape of infinite beauty. Picturesque wooden bridges, waterfalls, ponds, willows and plane trees are part of the scenery of Mavri Spilia (i.e. Black Cave).
For the more daring, a path of iron steps and ropes on the rock wall of the gorge begins from the cave. The only via ferrata path (as this type of path is usually called) in Greece. The crossing of this particular path is FORBIDDEN to those who do not have the appropriate equipment (helmet, climbing harness, fall arrester, etc.).
The verdant embrace of Mavri Spilia, with the stable temperature and the perfect view was an ideal refuge for locals and guerrillas alike, during the Ottoman rule and in WWII, as reminded by the half-ruined fortification at its entrance.
