Attractions and Places To See in Chelmos – Vouraikos National Park - Top 18

Right by the train station are traditional tavernas, such as the famous "Romance Tavern," which has often served as a backdrop for Greek films. The station is a popular starting point for hikes through the gorge along the railway tracks, especially to Diakopto (approx. 12 km, 3.5-4 hours). Another trail leads up to the Mega Spileo Monastery, founded in the 4th century and built directly into a cliff face. The area is characterized by dense forests of plane trees, chestnut trees, and pines, as well as numerous waterfalls in the gorge.

Zachlorou Station (also known as Mega Spileo) is a prominent station on the historic Diakopto-Kalavryta Railway. It is located in the picturesque village of Kato Zachlorou, nestled within the impressive Vouraikos Gorge. The station primarily serves as access to the famous Mega Spileo Monastery (Great Cave), which can be reached via a 45- to 60-minute hike. The station is part of the 750 mm narrow-gauge rack railway ("Odontotos"), which opened in 1896 and is considered one of the most spectacular railway lines in the Balkans.

Tickets, including seat reservations, can be booked online through Hellenic Train or purchased at the Diakopto train station. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season and on weekends, as the train is very popular with groups. Many visitors use the train for a combined tour. A popular stop is the Zachlorou (Mega Spileo) station. From there, you can hike to the famous Mega Spileo Monastery or walk part of the way through the gorge along the railway tracks. The route is considered one of the most beautiful public transport routes in Europe and offers fantastic photo opportunities at a leisurely speed of 30-40 km/h. Unfortunately, bicycles are not permitted on the train.

The Odontotos Rack Railway (Greek: Οδοντωτός) is one of Greece's most spectacular railway lines, connecting the coastal town of Diakopto on the Gulf of Corinth with the mountain village of Kalavryta. The railway winds through the impressive Vouraikos Gorge, past steep cliffs, through narrow tunnels, and over numerous bridges. The line is approximately 22 kilometers long. The journey takes about 60 minutes. It is a narrow-gauge railway (750 mm) with rack-and-pinion sections to overcome the steep gradients (over 700 meters of elevation gain). Modern multiple units from the Swiss manufacturer Stadler Rail are used.

The site is designed as a place of silence and reflection: The White Cross: A monumental, highly visible cross dominates the hill. Memorial Plaques: Stone-carved plaques list the names and ages of all the victims of the massacre. Sculpture "The Petrified Mother": This statue symbolizes the pain of the women who had to bury their loved ones themselves after the massacre. Below the plateau is a small chapel (crypt) for prayers and candle offerings. Every year on December 13, a large official ceremony is held here in the presence of government officials.

The Thysias memorial (Greek for "Place of Sacrifice") is the central memorial site on Kapi Hill, about 500 meters east of the town center. On December 13, 1943, one of the worst war crimes committed by the Wehrmacht in Greece took place at this location. German soldiers of the 117th Jäger Division marched all men and boys aged 13 and older to this hill. The site was deliberately chosen because it is shaped like a natural amphitheater. The men were forced to watch as their houses in the valley went up in flames before being shot with machine guns. According to official figures, hundreds of people were murdered in Kalavryta alone that day.

As long as you're not afraid of heights, it's an absolutely wonderful experience. And don't worry, you'll hear the train coming beforehand. :-)

Here begins the first of the three steep cogwheel sections