Full Day Private Hiking Tour at the Dragon Houses of South Evia (Mt Ochi)

A very challenging archaeological wonder lies in the area of Southern Evia: it’s the 25 famous huge constructions called Drakóspita (=Dragon houses).

Always located on steep and dominating locations, they are built with huge slabs of limestone which form a pyramid-shaped roof: opposite walls converge towards each other as the slabs are put on top one another with each of them protruding as regards its inferior one. Other architectural features include monolithic jambs and lintels, as well as stone shelves protruding from the wall.

Many theories have been proposed in order to explain when, how and for which use the dragonhouses were built. Some have claimed that they were ancient sanctuaries of either Zeus or Hera or Heracles. Others believe that they might have been guard posts or defensive structures, or even shelters for lumberjacks. Whichever the truth is, their imposing size and construction technique is an intriguing enigma!

Hiking up Mt Ochi at 1400mt is a lifetime experience. The area is a Natura 2000 one, for its natural beauty, its very rare –isolated for thousands of years – flora, and its wild fauna. Walk up this very old ecosystem starting from the location of Kastanologos to the camp at 1100m. Breathe in thyme and wild tea, and marvel at the century-old chestnut trees at the location Kastanologgos. It is at the camp that you will find the well-signed path that will take you past steep slopes onto the peak of the mountain. A stop at the chapel of Profitis Ilias, perched on the cliffs, will offer you a breathtaking view around. Of course, a visit to the Drakospito is a must!