Mount Kerkis, also known as Kerketeus is an extinct volcano that occupies almost the entire central part of the island of Samos. Its highest peak, called Vigla, which is located at 1,433 m asl, is the highest in Samos and the second highest peak in the eastern Aegean (after Fengari on the island of Samothrace).There are conflicting opinions on the origin of the name of the mountain: for some it roughly means "to belong to Circe", while for others its name would derive from the Greek verb "kérko" which means "to strike with noise" and refers to the sound of the waves that crash on its steep coasts.
Mount Kerkis is whitish in color due to its marble composition, particularly visible from different angles. The rock faces end to the east in the Karlovassi valley, which extends south to the Velanidia and Marathokampo valley. At this point meet the mountains of Kerkis and Ampelos, which form a valley in which the village of Agii Theodori stands. In these green areas, the soil is fertile, rich in wooded areas and water sources. This suggestive territory that surrounds Mount Kerkis is considered a naturalistic sanctuary, thanks to the presence of numerous plants and animals, some of which are endangered. For this reason it is part of the Natura 2000 project promoted by the European Union to protect the environment.On the slopes of Mount Kerkis there are besides a couple of small churches, also a series of caves. Of these the most important is the Cave of Pythagoras, located on the eastern side, where it is believed that Pythagoras hid from the tyrant Politrati before being exiled to Italy.
Starting from Votsalakia, on the south-western coast of Samos and leaving the inhabited area in the direction of Limnionas, turn right following the signs for the cave of Pythagoras. After a few kilometers the road forks. You must take the left following the signs for the Evangelistrias monastery (Monì Evangelìstrias). The road becomes unpaved and after several hairpin bends reaches a clearing, where you can leave your car and proceed on foot. Once you reach the monastery after about 30 minutes of walking, continue among huge rosemary bushes and luxuriant pine forests. After another half hour of walking you exit the woods and if you are not tired yet you can continue to the church of Prophet Ilias. Once past the church, continue to the right until you reach a collar that slips into a valley, then comes to a subsequent collar. From here the path continues to the left and then climbs until it reaches the ridge of Mount Kerkis. After a few meters you will finally be activated at the cross that stands out on the summit. Yes a little tiring .. but trust me, it's worth it!All the paths to get to the top of Mount Kerkis are well signposted with blue crosses or little men. We would like to point out that this is a rather demanding climb, of about 4 hours. We advise you to leave no later than 7 am to avoid the hottest hours. Wear hiking shoes and bring at least 2 liters of water per person with you.Fill up with emotions and energy and reach the top of Mount Kerkis, once you reach the summit the panorama that will open before your eyes will leave you breathless ..
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