PSATHA – VATHYCHORIA

The Vathychoria region is bordered to the north and northeast by Mount Pateras, to the west by the Psatha Bay and the Corinthian Gulf, and to the south by the small mountains of Lykovouni and Korona, which separate it from the Megara plain. The names “Mikro” (Small) and “Megalo” (Large) Vathychorio likely derive from the topography of these areas, as they are two plateaus nestled among steep mountains. Perhaps they also hint at the effort required to reach them by bike!

The area is characterized by dramatic terrain, with steep cliffs especially on the western side near Psatha Bay. Its pine forests are among the densest and tallest in Attica, offering shade and coolness while giving the impression of being hours away from the capital.

The  route starts at sea level, specifically in the seaside settlement of Psatha. At the end of the village, it ascends sharply, gaining 400 meters in just 4 km, before following a beautiful, wide, and easy trail through dense vegetation.

Two more steep uphill sections follow, with slopes reaching up to 20%, testing your quadriceps, lungs, patience, and persistence! At the end of these climbs, two aces appear—two ancient stone towers standing proudly, overseeing the fertile valleys of Vathychoria, worth a visit.

From this point, no energy needs to be spared (if any is left) as the next 12 km are downhill all the way back to Psatha. The terrain is passable throughout, with no technical difficulties, though the uphill gradients are very demanding, making good physical condition essential for completing the route.

At the end of the ride, a dip in the right-hand side of Psatha Bay, at Limanakia, with its cold, clear waters, is the best recovery.