Chatzouri (Χατζούρι)

Chatzouri is the summer refuge of Patras climbers because of its medium altitude and north-east orientation. This counts for two different crags: the lower, 80m high, gray wall, and the upper cave, with routes overhanging more than 45 degrees, the current "extreme sport climbing temple" in Greece.

SEASON: It can be sometimes hot in the summer, especially when trying the endurance 8bcs. Best season is late fall but the winter and cool spring days can be ideal as well, unless there is seepage due to recent heavy rains.

Access: Chatzouri is 45km away from Patras: Following the National Road to Pirgos turn left (at about the 15^th km) direction "Industrial Zone"; reaching which follow (rightwards) direction "Santomeri" (Lately the signs are missing due to public works; the right turn is just after the steep road after the river bridge). Follow the road for about 10km reaching the village "Pigadia" (or "Tzailo") past which turn left towards "Charavgi". (Following the rightwards road, to Santomeri, you reach another 5-6 small but beautiful crags, with totally about 20 routes; 6c | 7c+. Even further there is the out-of-this-world huge cave of "Portes".) Past Charavgi turn rightwards and follow the foothill dirt road for 3km, until an excavated area, in front of the 80m wall sector (5' walk) and park here. The top of the cave sector (15' walk) is visible higher at the right.

ACCOMODATION:  Free camping is possible on the parking area. However, the nearest large stores for full supplies are in Kato Achaia. Drinkable water is provided by a fountain next to a kiosk on the uphill road between Ano Soudenaika and Tzailo.

Chatzouri – Cave Sector – "The temple"

Chatzouri – Wall Sector

The routes are at the right side of the wide wall.

UIAA grades are given to routes were some nuts and friends are required. Otherwise, French grades are given.

Pictures from the Temple

Last update: 18/11/2005