Nestled at 900 meters on the western slopes of Mount Parnon, Vamvakou is a village with a story of revival. Once nearly abandoned, it’s now a beacon of sustainable tourism and rural innovation.
The Vamvakou Revival
In 2018, five young visionaries—most with roots in the village—launched the “Vamvakou Revival” project with support from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation. Their goal: to breathe life back into the village through culture, hospitality, and technology.
Today, Vamvakou boasts a guesthouse, café, restaurant, and a vibrant calendar of events. From walnut harvesting to robotics workshops, the village blends tradition with modernity.
Trails & Tranquility
Vamvakou is also a gateway to Parnon’s hiking network. Well-marked trails lead to Longous and the EOS refuge, passing through chestnut forests and chapels like Agia Kyriaki. The village square, shaded by a massive plane tree, offers panoramic views of the mountain peaks
Culture in the Countryside
One of the most inspiring moments in Vamvakou’s revival was the residency of six musicians from the Greek National Opera, who formed the “Mount Ensemble” and performed in the village for five months. It’s a testament to how art and nature can coexist beautifully.