Combo Into the Wild
ΡΟΔΟΠΗ
Πάσχα στο Παρθένο Δάσος ΦΡΑΚΤΟΥ
VIRGIN FOREST OF DASOS FRAKTOS
10 - 13 April
18 Participants
Hiking
Duration
3 Nights
From 480€
2 -Moderate
🏔️ Το CONCEPT
Easter differently! 🌲✨
Not in squares full of people.
Not on islands with endless queues.
But where nature sets the rules: In the forest!
In the shade of the ancient fir trees, where the crystal clear water flows endlessly and spring is born again in every vegetation.
Four days in Rhodope, in the wild forest complex of Fraktos.
With hikes on paths that time forgot, next to breathtaking waterfalls and rivers that sing the history of the mountain!
This Easter is not secular.
It is not a show.
It is an initiation into the heart of wild nature!!!!
INFOS
Where Greece meets its northern border, in the "heart" of the Rhodope Mountains, time seems to have stood still. The Fraktos Forest is not just a destination; it is a living organism, a primeval laboratory of nature that breathes far from human civilization. It is the only undisturbed forest ecosystem in Greece and one of the few remaining in Europe. It has been declared a Protected Natural Monument since 1980 due to its enormous ecological and historical value!
Its name comes from the fact that the steep slopes and the relief of the area keep it "barred" and protected from the outside world.
Walking along its paths, we will feel the awe of absolute tranquility. Fallen tree trunks that naturally rot to give life to new shoots, thick fogs that embrace the peaks of Deliboska and the sound of running water compose a setting reminiscent of a fairy tale. It is a place where nature rules on its own terms, offering a rare refuge to species that have disappeared from the rest of the continent.
Here the trees are not decorative, they are centuries-old!
Our base is Paranesti, built next to Nestos, one of the most beautiful rivers in Greece.
River, gorges, streams, waterfalls and trails used in the Virgin Forest Trail mountain race.
Easter here has a different feel.
Less fuss. More substance.
WHAT WILL YOU EXPERIENCE
🌲 Hiking in the virgin forest of Fraktos
In the emblematic Fraktos Forest, where the trees exceed 40 meters in height and the light passes through centuries-old fir trees.
Wild paths, log bridges, streams and the feeling that you are in a Balkan national park, not in a "known" Greek destination!
💦 Achladorematos Waterfalls
Three consecutive waterfalls in dense vegetation, with the third cascaded and impressive.
A surprise point on the route that makes you stop, be silent and simply observe!
🏞 Nestos riverside paths
Hiking next to Nestos, on one of the most beautiful river trails in Greece.
Gentle introduction, images of water, shadow, sound of flow and a sense of peace from the very first day!
🔥 Easter feast in nature
Easter Sunday in a different way.
Roasts, lambs, wine, laughter and relaxed company, without crowds, without "showing off".
Only nature, spring air and a real mood!
🚣 Optional Rafting on Nestos
For those who want a little more adrenaline.
Gentle but impressive descent in clear waters, with the forests of Rhodope in the background!
🦋 Paranesti Natural History Museum – Rhodope in "miniature"
Before we finally leave the mountain, we visit the Paranesti Natural History Museum.
Here, the biodiversity of Rhodope unfolds before us: Geological Secrets - Wildlife - the Kingdom of Forests
An experience that gives knowledge and depth to what we have already experienced in the field.
🏛️ Stop at the Archaeological Park of Dion
We walk among ancient sanctuaries that emerge from the water, visit the Sanctuary of Isis and the Villa of Dionysus with its world-famous mosaics.
An ideal, symbolic bridge between nature and history.
🧖 Spa & Recovery
Relaxation at Hotel Nessos after every demanding day.
Body rests, experience is completed properly!
🚐 Premium transportation
We travel with 9-seater Combo Vans.
Small group = flexibility, comfort, better experience, real company.
🎒 Small & close-knit group
It is not a mass excursion.
It is for a few who want to experience something authentic.
This changes everything in the energy of the trip.
That's why First come, First Served!!
HIGHLIGHTS
OVERVIEW
Day 1
Bank Holiday Friday 10 April🚐 Departure by Premium 9seat Combo Vans from Athens
(Detailed points & times will be sent to participants)
Route via Egnatia Odos with stops for coffee & rest.
Early Afternoon
Arrival in Paranesti
Time for a quick check-in and light lunch
Departure for our first hike. The ideal introduction to the area.
The Dance of Water and Green
Starting from the outskirts of Paranesti, the path unfolds like a green carpet next to Nestos, the "river of life" for Eastern Macedonia. Here, the noise of the city is replaced by the gurgling of water and the melodious song of birds. Sunlight filters through the dense foliage of the ancient plane trees, creating a play of shadows that enchants the eye.
The path moves parallel to the riverbed, allowing us to see up close the power of the water that sculpts the banks. At every turn of the path, the scenery changes: from narrow passages between bushes, to open glades where the river widens and calms down. It is a place where the sense of time is lost. The tranquility of the landscape invites you to stop, breathe the cool air of the river and feel the absolute connection with the ecosystem.
This path is not just a hike; it is a therapeutic walk. The green of the lush vegetation and the blue of Nestos compose a living painting that remains indelible in the memory of every visitor.
Key Points:
The Riparian Forest: A rare "gallery" forest of plane trees, willows and alders that hug the banks.
Viewpoints: Wooden benches and platforms above the river for rest and observation.
Birdlife: Opportunities for birdwatching, as the area is home to herons, cormorants and rare birds of prey.
📊 Trail Stats
Distance: 7.85 km
Altitude: +22m
Duration: ~2:30
Difficulty level: Easy
Type: Circular
Ideal for getting into a rhythm and getting a feel for the place.
Evening
Epitaphio (quiet, authentic)
Dinner at a local tavern
Excursion & hiking briefing
Day 2
Bank Holiday Saturday 11 April
Fraktos Forest
The Long Route
Kalyvia Hatzichristou – Achladorema – Waterfalls – PanoramaThe Path of the Senses
The adventure begins at the stone construction site, where the silence of the mountain is interrupted only by the rustling of leaves. Descending the marked path, the air becomes cooler and the vegetation more lush. Soon, the Txaki Rema appears on the left, leading you deeper into the kingdom of beech and spruce.
The heart of the route beats at Achladorema. There, water has been carving the rock for centuries, creating the famous waterfalls. The climb next to the running water is a rite of passage: the smell of wet soil and the sound of falling water accompany you until you reach the impressive "Megali Sara".
Continuing towards the Panorama location, the landscape changes. The forest thins out and gives way to bare peaks and alpine meadows. Once there, fatigue disappears; before us will spread the vast greenery of Fraktos, an ocean of trees that seems to never end, reaching the Bulgarian border. On the way back, the passage through the abandoned Krusovo will add a touch of nostalgia, reminding us that once this wild place was home to people who lived in complete harmony with the mountain.
Main Points
Tzaki Rema: The first contact with running water and the entrance to the dense beech forest.
Achladorematos Waterfalls: The route passes by three impressive waterfalls. The first is easily accessible, while the third and largest reaches 70 meters in height.
Panorama Point: The highest point of the route offering a 360-degree view of the Rhodope Mountains and the Virgin Forest.
Ruins of Achladochori (Krousovo): A stop full of history among pear trees and stone ruins.
📊 Trail Stats
Distance: 16.62 km
Altitude: +803m
Duration: ~6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Circular
The day of essence. The day of initiation. The most powerful day of the four-day hike!
♨️ Stop in Thermia: The “Slum” of the Thermal Baths
Descending from Kalyvia Hatzichristou, we make a stop that feels like a journey through time. In Thermia, we discover an eerie settlement of stone and wood, built on ancient springs that gushes out steaming water at 50°C. It is a moment of absolute serenity, where the water vapor mingles with the forest mist, offering an experience of primitive relaxation before our return to our base in Paranesti.
In the evening: Resurrection in the village & a resurrection table.
Day 3
Easter Sunday 12 April
Hiking - Partying - RaftingAfter breakfast, we start:
🥾 Paranesti – Arkoudorema – VounoplogiaThe Rhodope Trail
The route starts from Paranesti, the "pillar" of Rhodope, and quickly leaves civilization behind to immerse itself in the absolute tranquility of the forest. Following the VFT (Virgin Forest Trail) markings, we will ascend through dense vegetation where the aromas of pine and oak alternate depending on the altitude.
The magic peaks when the trail meets Arkoudorema. Here, nature is in full swing; the water flows rapidly between polished stones, creating small pedestals and natural sculptures.
Arriving at Vounoplagia, the landscape "opens up". The old settlement, with its stone church dominating, offers a sense of devotion and historical continuity. From here, the view of the surrounding slopes is breathtaking, revealing the grandeur of the Rhodope Mountains National Park. It is the point where wild nature meets the imprints of another era, offering us a rare experience of tranquility and regrouping.
Spring is the most beautiful season due to the flowering and the many waters!
📊 Trail Stats
Distance: 11.56 km
Altitude: +766m
Duration: ~4 hours
Difficulty level: Easy – Moderate
Type: Circular
Anyone who does not want to walk today can live this Combo Experience, where water, nature and adrenaline meet!!!!
Rafting on Nestos! The "river of life" for the region.
Long Route (Adventure):
-
Starts at the Platanovrissi Dam and ends at Paranesti.
-
Duration: Total time 4 hours, with about 2 hours in the river.
-
Difficulty: Moderate (grade 2-3), with more "passages" and waves that raise the adrenaline.
Equipment
Boat, oars, helmet, life jacket and neoprene suits/shoes for cold days.
Transportation
Transportation by vehicles from the base to the starting point
You must have
Swimsuit, towel, flip-flops and sunscreen.
After the activities...
🐑 Easter feast with roasts & lambs
🔥 Outdoor atmosphere
🍷 Local wine
Day 4
Easter Monday 13 April
Από τα Μυστικά της Ροδόπης στην Αίγλη του Ολύμπου☀️ Last breakfast in Paranesti – Check-out
We say goodbye to the hospitable Paranesti with the images of Nestos still fresh in our minds. Our last day begins with a deep dive into knowledge, before we take the road back.
🦋 Paranesti Natural History Museum: Rhodope in “miniature”
Before we finally leave the mountain, we visit the Natural History Museum. Here, the biodiversity of Rhodope unfolds before us:-
Geological Secrets: We learn about the history of millions of years through rare rocks and crystals.
-
Wildlife: We come “face to face” with the fauna of the area through faithful representations of ecosystems (bears, wild goats, predators).
-
The Kingdom of the Forests: We learn about the uniqueness of the Virgin Forest and the mysterious cave fauna that hides in the bowels of the earth.
-
🏛️ The Stop at the Archaeological Park of Dion: Where History “swims” in the water
Descending, we make a strategic stop at the foot of Mount Olympus. Dion welcomes us to a scene of absolute spring bloom:-
We walk among ancient sanctuaries that emerge from the water, we visit the Sanctuary of Isis and the Villa of Dionysus with its world-famous mosaics.
-
We enjoy a last coffee under the plane trees of the village, with our gaze stealing images of the snow-capped peaks of the “Mountain of the Gods”.
🛣️ Return to Athens
We take the final straight to the capital, leaving behind the twists and turns of Macedonia.
🏙️ In the evening we arrive in Athens, carrying in our luggage the fresh air of Fraktos, the sound of Achladorematos and a sense of fullness that only contact with the primeval forests and our history can provide!-
- Error: empty slot
TIPS
USEFUL INFORMATION ABOUT THE EXCURSION
-
All overnight stays are in double rooms with breakfast, but during Easter and the rooms are few and hard to find, so your early participation will be essential to avoid surprises
-
The program can be modified depending on weather conditions
-
If on any day you do not wish to follow the daily program, please inform us so that we can give you an alternative
🛏 ACCOMODATION
-
3 nights at Hotel Nessos 3★, with breakfast & access to spa / wellness area.
-
Comfort, warmth and relaxation after every mountain experience.
-
ADD ONs Per Person
-
+ €120 For Single Room Accommodation (Subject to Availability)
-
EQUIPMENT FOR HIKING
-
Thermal Top-Bottom
-
Fleece OR Sweatshirt OR Softshell
-
Windproof Waterproof Jacket
-
Hiking Boots
-
Socks (At Least Two Pairs)
-
Second Shoes
-
Flip Flops
-
Sunglasses
-
Flashlight
-
Hiking Poles (Optional)
Useful Tips For Hiking Equipment, Based On Our Many Years Of Experience, Read Also Here
-
WHAT IS INCLUDED
All Transportation With Exclusive 9-Seater Combo Vans, Tolls & Fuel
3 (Three) Nights With Breakfast At Hotel Nessos 3★ With Accommodation Taxes
ComboRide's research, design and route support
Leader - Attendant With Certified Emergency First Response Knowledge
The Hikes
VAT
Photographic Coverage With Our Own Professional Equipment
Group Organized Pharmacy
Third Party Liability Insurance Coverage
Anything Else Unseen Required To Make The Trip Happen
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
Personal Expenses
Food and Drink
Entrance Fees to Visited Archaeological Sites, Museums and Anything Mentioned in the Program as Optional
COST
To reserve a place, you must first click the orange "BOOK NOW" button at the bottom of the page and fill in the form with your details
Immediately after that, a deposit of 150 euros must be made
The deposit can be paid at the club office at Agias Theklas 13, Psirri (4 minutes walk from Monastiraki metro station)
or via bank IBAN
For Combo Loyal Members, immediate reservation of a place and payment at comboBus
Click HERE to see how you can become a Combo Loyal Member
Registrations for participation until Thursday 26 March. After this date, you must contact us for availability.
REDUCTION
- € 50 for those who come with their own car
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellation and refund right until Thursday 26 March
Space is limited, so first come first served
Payment will be made during the tour
- Error: empty slot
PHOTOS
