Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
the Netherlands
Ireland
Italy
Luxembourg
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Nature · Igoumenitsa, Epiro
Acheron Springs
The springs of the river Acheron, near the village of Glyki, with a trail that follows the riverbed, through cold water, between rock walls.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Acheron Springs
The Acheron is the river that, in Greek mythology, led to the world of the dead: the ferryman Charon carried souls across its waters. The real river rises in the mountains of Thesprotia and runs to the Ionian Sea at Ammoudia beach. Near the village of Glyki, about an hour’s drive from Igoumenitsa, are the springs, where the river emerges from a gorge.
The most popular visit is the walk along the riverbed. From the springs area, where there are taverns and plane trees by the water, the path enters the gorge and runs partly inside the river, with cold water to knee or waist height depending on the season, between rock walls. Those who want to go further can follow trails up the hillside to the Skala Tzavelainas gorge and the Souli region.
The water comes from the mountains and is cold year-round, which makes the walk appealing on hot days. In the springs area there are also rafting trips, horseback rides and guided hikes.
Downriver, about 20 km away, lies the Necromanteion, linked to the same legend of the river of the dead, and at the mouth is Ammoudia beach.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 4 hours, including the river walk and a meal at the taverns.
Best time
From June to September, when the water level is lower and the cold water is pleasant in the heat. After heavy rains the river level rises and the riverbed walk may not be possible.
How to get there
By car, about 1 hour from Igoumenitsa via the interior roads to the village of Glyki and the springs area, with parking by the taverns. Public transport is limited.
Tip
Wear water sandals or shoes that can get wet, and bring dry clothes. Some taverns rent footwear; ask when you arrive.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Acheron Springs
Where are the springs of the Aqueronte?
Near the village of Glyki, inland in the Epiro region, about a 1-hour drive from Igoumenitsa.
Do you need to get into the water to see the springs of the Aqueronte?
No to view the spring area itself, but the most popular walk follows the riverbed, with cold water up to the knees or waist.
What is the Aqueronte's relation to mythology?
In Greek mythology, it was the river that led to the world of the dead, crossed by souls in Charon's boat.
What's the best time to walk along the Aqueronte?
From June to September, when the water is lower. After heavy rains the river rises and walking in the riverbed may not be possible.