Parga and the Underworld – 5-Day Kayak Adventure – SEASON OPENING

Travel Sofia – Parga

The meeting point is in front of “Vasil Levski” Stadium at 00:00, and at 00:30 we depart from Sofia.

We travel through the night towards the Ionian coast, and after several hours of driving we enter the coastal regions.

Around 08:00 we arrive in Parga. We stop for coffee and breakfast to fully wake up in the rhythm of the sea.

After that we head to Camping “Valtos” – a quiet spot situated on the sandy beach of the same name, overlooking the olive groves and the fortress above the town.

Accommodation and preparation for the first paddle

We settle in at the campsite, take a short rest, and prepare for our first paddle of the season.

We organise our personal equipment, check the boats, and set our mindset for the water.

Ammoudia – first touch with the sea for the season

We travel to the village of Ammoudia – a place where the sea meets the river mouths, and where the calm bay waters feel made for kayaking.

We unload the boats and divide the group into two:

✅ Beginners start their first lessons in the calm waters of the bay – introductory training, instructions, technique, and a sense of stability.

✅ Intermediate and advanced paddlers set off on a short familiarisation paddle – about an hour to the right side of the bay to feel the rhythm of the coastline.

Paddling along the Acheron River – encounter with mythology

After the introductory training we gather the groups and enter together into the mouth of the Acheron River.

We paddle against the current, gradually moving deeper into its mysterious ecosystem.

The white willow forests lean over the water, birds take off from the bushes very close to the boats, and occasionally otters and turtles appear along the banks.

The river gradually narrows and the greenery becomes denser. We will go upstream as far as nature allows – we will not reach the “underworld”, as it is still too early for that, but the sensation of a mythical place is inevitable.

The legends of Acheron

According to the ancient Greeks, Acheron is the “River of Pain”.

Charon, the ferryman, transported the souls of the dead across it, provided they had a coin for passage; those without a coin wandered along the banks for a hundred years.

Today the mythology remains as a legend, but the magic of Acheron is real and tangible — turquoise water, limestone gorges, small waterfalls, and shaded tunnels formed by trees, making this one of the most unusual kayaking locations in Greece.

The route, breaks, and return

The upstream journey lasts around an hour and a half.

The descent back with the current is faster, easier, and more enjoyable.

Along the river there are almost no places to stop on the banks, so our breaks take place literally in the water.

There are no tavernas along the route — it is important for everyone to bring food in a dry bag.

Back to Valtos Beach and the evening

After returning from the river, we load the boats and head back to Valtos Beach.

We unload the kayaks and enjoy well-deserved rest — sea, swimming, and a relaxing afternoon.

Dinner is at the campsite, and those who still have energy can take the coastal path to Parga — lively, beautiful, and enchanting at dusk.

Paddling distance for the day:: approximately 11 km, with about half of the distance being along the river current.

Difficulty level according to distance: 2 out of 4.

The cliff monastery and the wild beaches of Parga

After breakfast, we get back on the kayaks and head to the right of Camping “Valtos”. This section of the coastline is different – raw, rugged, and rocky. The water strikes against the stones, forming narrow passages and making us navigate carefully between the rocks. Here the sense of control and manoeuvrability is strong – a true kayak terrain that teaches but also rewards.

First stop – a hidden wild beach and ascent to the monastery

Our first break is at a small wild beach nestled beneath high vertical cliffs. From here, a narrow path leads us up to the monastery carved into the rocks, Panagia Vlacherna – one of the most remarkable and visited sanctuaries in the region.

The Monastery of Panagia Vlacherna

The monastery is partially carved into the rock – with whitewashed walls, a wooden door, and a small inner courtyard offering a view of the endless sea.

According to locals, it was built in the seventeenth century as a refuge for monks seeking peace and protection from pirate raids. The place carries a sense of silence, coolness, and ancient simplicity that makes you slow your pace.

Second stop – a wide sandy bay

After a short pause, we return to the kayaks and continue to our second beach for the day – a wide sandy bay ideal for rest.

✅ Lunch in a taverna on the shore

✅ Free time under the shade of the olive trees

✅ Swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation

Afternoon paddle back

In the afternoon, we head back to the campsite. The paddle is easy, with long stretches of calm water and beautiful views of the fortress gradually approaching above the “Valtos” bay.

Free evening

The evening is free – you can stroll around Parga, enjoy ice cream along the waterfront, or simply rest at the campsite under the sound of the sea.

Paddling distance for the day: approximately 13 km.

Difficulty level according to distance: 2 out of 4.

Walk through the Acheron Canyon and refinement of kayak techniques

On the third day, we give participants the opportunity to choose between two different types of adventure – one on land and one on water.

Group 1 – Hiking ascent through the Acheron River Canyon

After breakfast, the first group departs for the upper section of the Acheron – the place where the river emerges from the mountain and forms the famous narrow gorges. Here we begin our walk directly along the riverbed.

✅ In many sections you walk inside the water – cold, crystal-clear, and refreshing

✅ A walk among high limestone walls and narrow stone corridors

✅ Passing through natural pools and small waterfalls

✅ Spots for photos, rest, and observing nature

The light in the canyon refracts into blue-green hues, and the air is cool and clean – one of the most powerful natural experiences in the region.

The walk lasts about two to three hours, after which we return along the same route and have lunch in a local taverna.

Group 2 – Kayak training and the island church of Parga

For the most enthusiastic kayakers, we organise an active water programme. The group remains in the area of Parga and works on improving techniques.

✅ Boat control and balance

✅ Manoeuvres and passing between rocks

✅ Working with waves and efficient coastal paddling

After the training session, we head to the small island of Panagia – just opposite Parga. There lies the characteristic white church, surrounded by olive trees and stone terraces. We explore the island, take photos, and enjoy the amphitheatrical view of the town.

In the early afternoon, we return to Valtos to meet the first group.

Afternoon – The Castle of Ali Pasha

Once the two groups reunite, we board the buses and head to one of the most impressive historical sites in the region – the Castle of Ali Pasha, rising high above Anthousa.

It was built in 1814 as an important military fortress for monitoring the coastline.

✅ Panoramic view of the bay of Parga

✅ A vantage point over the coastline, the islands, and the amphitheatrical town

✅ A unique perspective of movement across the sea and land

Here it becomes clear why the place was chosen for a fortress – the entire area can be observed from its walls.

Evening – Traditional dinner in Anthousa

After visiting the fortress, we enjoy dinner in a taverna in the village of Anthousa – high above the coast, with a view over the entire bay of Parga.

The place is peaceful, the food is traditional, and the sunset over the sea is the natural finale of the day.

Aphrodite’s Cave, Lichnos Beach and the Bay of Parga

After breakfast and coffee, we prepare sandwiches for the day, organise our equipment, and launch the kayaks into the water. Today we head left from Camping “Valtos” – towards one of the iconic natural landmarks in the area: Aphrodite’s Cave.

Coastal paddling towards Aphrodite’s Cave

We paddle slowly along the rocky coastline, which at times rises steeply and at others opens into small bays. The scenery is dynamic – narrow passages, natural arches, and karst formations sculpted by the sea over the years.

✅ Light manoeuvring between rocks

✅ Natural crevices and cave openings

✅ Calm sections for smooth paddling

This is one of the most beautiful routes in the region, where the kayak feels like an extension of the body – movement that brings pure enjoyment.

Breaks on small wild beaches

We make several stops at small sandy beaches along the route – time for swimming, photos, and short rest.

Lichnos Beach – lunch and long break

After exploring Aphrodite’s Cave, we continue towards Lichnos Beach. Here we land for a longer pause and lunch.

✅ Possibility of eating in a taverna

✅ Beach with crystal-clear water

✅ Shade under the olive-covered slopes

The beach is wide, and the surrounding landscape creates the feeling of a sheltered and cosy bay.

Afternoon – entering the Bay of Parga

In the afternoon, we head back in the direction of Parga. We enter the bay and view the town from the sea – amphitheatrically built, colourful, and slightly Venetian in style.

✅ Passing by the island of Panagia

✅ Viewing the rocky capes and arches

✅ Paddling under the fortress walls

This is the most picturesque view of Parga – a view revealed only from the sea.

Evening – walk and dinner in Parga

In the evening, we head to Parga – time for a walk through the old town, visiting the fortress, and dinner in a cosy taverna overlooking the harbour.

At dusk, the town comes alive, music is everywhere, and the atmosphere is magical.

Paddling distance for the day: approximately 14 km.

Difficulty level according to distance: 2 out of 4.

Training in the Bay of Parga and departure

We gather at 09:00 by the boats. This is our final day, dedicated to a short, focused paddle and practical training in the Bay of Parga. We move left from the campsite and enter the calm waters, where we continue to build upon the most important techniques in sea kayaking.

Today’s training includes

Fundamentals and boat control

✅ proper entry and exit from the kayak at shore and shallow water;

✅ efficient forward and backward paddling with correct body posture;

✅ stopping techniques and controlled speed reduction;

✅ correcting and changing direction.

Manoeuvring and stability

✅ side paddling (draw stroke);

✅ maintaining stability through low brace and high brace;

✅ basic techniques for preventing capsizing.

Rescue techniques

✅ self-rescue – re-entering the kayak after falling out;

✅ assisted rescue – helping between two kayakers.

The training is carried out primarily on single sea kayaks, so every technique can be executed realistically, with proper dynamics and safety.

Those who prefer not to participate in the practical exercises may observe from a boat or remain on the beach.

Conclusion, preparation, and departure

At 11:00 we return to the campsite. Together we clean the equipment, organise the gear, and load the kayaks onto the trailers.

Around 14:00 we depart back towards Bulgaria.

Estimated arrival in front of “Vasil Levski” Stadium in Sofia – around 23:00.

✅ FULL FIVE DAYS of sea kayaking along the coastline of Parga

✅ High-class single kayak tailored to your size (or double kayak upon explicit preference)

✅ Modern lightweight carbon paddle

✅ High-class PALM life jacket

✅ Spraydeck (nylon or neoprene according to preference)

✅ Water sports helmet (if needed)

✅ Professional kayak guide with extensive experience in sea kayaking, certified in all required training:

- Sea kayaking, kayak leader, first aid, risk management and open-water safety, navigation

✅ Instruction and training throughout the entire event

✅ Photos along the routes – taken by the team

For your comfort on land we have provided:

✅ Tables, chairs, and a canopy (if needed)

✅ Gas barbecue, gas stove, electric kettle

✅ Automatic coffee machine with unlimited coffee included

✅ Mobile fridge and ice maker

✅ Utensils, dishes, and cups

✅ Consumables: kitchen rolls, foil, garbage bags, etc.

❌ Accommodation at Camping Valtos

❌ The announced price does not include transport.

Participants may travel completely free of charge with the transport vehicles we use for the kayaks and equipment (until all 23 seats are filled), or, if they prefer, they may travel with their own transport.

❌ Food, drinks, and other personal expenses

❌ Personal equipment listed in the “Equipment” section

❌ Tent rental and inflatable mattress

❌ Health insurance for the duration of the event

Price: 4–6 BGN per person.

It can be arranged online here: http://bit.ly/3MuEGl8

The insurance is paid directly to the insurer.

We also recommend arranging TRAVEL CANCELLATION insurance: https://bit.ly/3T6fmFb

How to get to PARGA?

You can travel completely free of charge with us, using the transport vehicles designated for carrying the kayak equipment, until all 23 available seats are filled, or you may travel with your own transport if you prefer.

After the capacity of 23 seats is reached, participation is possible only with private transport, without any change in the event price.

Luggage – what to bring

✅ A backpack or duffel bag with personal belongings (large, bulky suitcases are not allowed)

✅ A tent (if you will be camping)

✅ Food and drinks for the stay

✅ You do not need to bring tables, chairs, or additional camping equipment – we provide them.

Departure and return

Departure: Sofia – the parking area in front of the main entrance of the National Stadium “Vasil Levski”

Return: at the same location

⚠️ We do not offer pick-ups or drop-offs at personal addresses.

Accommodation – Camping “Valtos”, Parga

Price per night: 8 euros per person

Price for a tent: 7 euros per night

Accommodation fees are paid directly to the campsite management.

The campsite also offers bungalow-type rooms, and you may make a reservation. Prices are published here: https://valtoscamping.gr/

The area around Parga has many hotels and guesthouses. If you prefer hotel accommodation, you may arrange your reservation independently.

Dining at the campsite

We have provided an equipped field kitchen, utensils, and the possibility for group cooking in the camp.

We recommend bringing food at least for the first day, as we arrive early in the morning and begin with a dynamic programme.

Meal options

✅ Cooking with the group in the camp

✅ Dining in local tavernas along the route

✅ Purchasing products from shops

✅ Preparing fresh fish or seafood on the barbecue

Storage and shopping

✅ Refrigerator in the van for perishable foods

✅ Refrigerators in the campsite for your use

✅ Coffee at any time

☕ A coffee machine is provided with unlimited and free coffee for all participants

During kayak routes

✅ Bring dry food and sandwiches; each day during the briefing we will inform you whether there are tavernas or shops along the route.

✅ Bring enough water according to your personal needs, but a minimum of 2 litres.

🌊 Meals are entirely your choice — cook with us, try the local cuisine, or combine both!