AKROTHEA
Goura is the administrative center of the Feneos Municipality, located at the borders of the Corinthia, Achaea, and Arcadia regions. This picturesque village is built at the foothills of Mount Ziria, the legendary birthplace of Hermes, son of Zeus and Maia. It is a charming place, filled with old, two-story stone houses.
One of its standout landmarks is the Oikonomou-Goura mansion, located in the large and beautiful main square, directly across from the impressive church of the Archangels, built in 1880.
The entire Feneos region offers visitors breathtaking scenery, vibrant colors, and deep emotions. These can be discovered while visiting Lake Doxa, surrounded by an alpine landscape, exploring the historic Monastery of Saint George (built in 1693), or marveling at Panagia tou Vrachou (Virgin Mary of the Rock), a chapel nestled among towering rock formations reminiscent of Meteora. The area is also perfect for hiking, with trails winding through the slopes of Mount Ziria and Mount Helmos—both part of the Natura 2000 network—where visitors can discover a remarkable variety of plant species (124 in total).
The region is steeped in mythology, as well. According to legend, Hercules built large channels to direct the plain’s waters into the underground sinkholes known as "Katavothres." These sinkholes still function today and are linked to another myth, which suggests they were entrances to the Underworld. It is said that Demeter descended through them in search of her beloved daughter, Persephone.
Lake Doxa: Created in 1996, Lake Doxa is the area’s main attraction. In the middle of the lake, on a small islet, stands the chapel of Saint Fanourios, surrounded by ruins that reveal its long history. According to tradition, it was built before the Fall of Constantinople and was originally the old monastery of Saint George.
Monastery of Saint George (Tou Fonia): Built in 1693 on Mount Krathi, this monastery is surrounded by a dense forest of ancient trees. A visit here is a must, not only for its beautiful frescoes, unique wooden iconostasis, and hidden school from Ottoman times but also for the tranquility, hospitality, and breathtaking views of Lake Doxa.
Panagia tou Vrachou (Virgin Mary of the Rock): Perched dramatically on a rock formation reminiscent of Meteora, this small chapel is a sight to behold. A white cross stands tall at the highest point of the rock, giving the impression that the entire cliff serves as the church’s façade, while the surrounding centuries-old fir trees form its natural roof.
Mount Kyllini (Ziria): As the second-highest mountain in the Peloponnese and the mythical birthplace of Hermes, Ziria invites adventurers to explore its rich flora and fauna, mysterious caves, and hidden lakes along its countless trails. If you're lucky, you might even encounter a herd of wild horses that roam freely in the area.
Katavothres (Sinkholes): These natural sinkholes serve as the outlet for the Olvios River, which flows through the Feneos valley. Myths and legends link them to the gods and demigods of ancient times. In the past, when the sinkholes became blocked, the entire valley would transform into a lake—its ancient shoreline can still be seen today.
• From Athens: Take the Athens-Patras National Road and exit at Kiato (106 km). Follow the Kiato - Stymphalia - Lavka - Goura route (65 km).
• From Xylokastro: Follow the Trikala - Karya - Goura route.
• From Derveni: Follow the Derveni - Evrostina - Goura route (39 km).
• From Tripoli: Follow the Tripoli - Levidi - Lykouria - Goura route (85 km).