Evrytania, with its enchanting mountain scenery, is home to villages that combine history, traditional architecture, and unparalleled beauty.
Two of the most remote and picturesque spots in the region are the villages of Krikello and Domnista, destinations well worth exploring — especially for those seeking peaceful moments and a connection with the wild beauty of the winter mountain.
The Road to Krikello: Mountain Beauty and History
To reach Krikello and Domnista, the route differs from the usual roads leading to Karpenisi and the ski center. From Lamia, visitors do not continue toward the new tunnel but turn off to follow the signs for Krikello and Domnista. This route stretches for about 16 kilometers and takes you along a stunning mountain road, with altitudes ranging between 1,350 and 1,500 meters. From there, the road crosses the forested ridge that connects Mount Kaliakouda with Kokkalia, offering breathtaking views of the Evrytania mountains and, on the other side, toward Phocis. The beauty of the landscape is amplified by the snow-covered peaks and fir-clad slopes, creating a sense of isolation and tranquility.
Krikello: The Village Nestled in Fir Forests
From the moment you leave the main road and turn toward Krikello, the first thing you notice is the rooftops of the village peeking out from among the fir trees. Perched at an altitude of 1,120 meters, Krikello is built on a gentle yet lush hillside. The square of Agios Nikolaos serves as the heart of the village, with its namesake church standing proudly at the center, built in 1903. Seven centuries-old plane trees and stone fountains with flowing water add a unique charm to the scene. Traditional tavernas and cafés complete the village atmosphere, which up until the Interwar period was a thriving main village with around 3,000 inhabitants.
The history of Krikello dates back to the 17th century, when seven smaller settlements merged around the famous “Solinaria” spring. Today, the village offers guesthouses, traditional tavernas, and the charming café “Mantzato,” known for its homemade desserts and herbal teas made from local mountain herbs. From here, visitors can explore historic chapels and sites that hold deep emotional significance for the locals.
Domnista: A Mountain Refuge and Monuments of the National Resistance
The route continues toward Domnista, crossing the Krikellopotamos River, a tributary of the Trikeriotis River. This river shapes the stunning landscape of the “Panta Vrehei” gorge, which cannot be crossed at this time of year due to the strong water flow and dangerous conditions. Domnista lies at an altitude of 1,000 meters and is home to the historic remains of the ancient Evrytania city of Phantinos.
A key historical moment for the village came on June 7, 1942, when Aris Velouchiotis, captain of ELAS, declared the armed resistance against the Nazis. Domnista is considered the first village to be liberated from the Nazi occupation, a fact commemorated by a small monument located just outside the settlement.
Domnista offers a modest tourist infrastructure, including a guesthouse, a taverna, and a folklore museum. The area is perfect for exploration, with opportunities to visit the remote villages of Roska, Psiana, and Ambliani, while the routes provide unparalleled views of the natural landscape.
Source [quote] Krikello and Domnista: Discovering the Historical and Natural Gems of Evrytania alfavita | alfavita.gr
