Manikiatis Waterfall, competing neck and neck with the more famous Drymonas Waterfall in the island’s north, deserves equal praise as the most beautiful waterfall in Evia. It’s tucked into a remote spot at the bottom of the gorge carved by the namesake Manikiatis River, near the village of Manikia in central-eastern Evia. It lies 21 km from Kymi and 58 km from Chalkida.
The Manikiatis Waterfall is about 25 meters high and forms a clear, deep pool at its base, roughly 40 meters long and 10 meters wide on average. Perfect for a refreshing swim, its vertical rock walls also lend themselves to free climbing and daring dives into the water. Fifty meters downstream, you’ll find a second, smaller waterfall and another natural pool.
The gorge of the Manikiatis River (known in antiquity as Nedon) is brimming with giant plane trees and dense vegetation. You’ll encounter many lizards, snakes, and water snakes in the area. In spring, the water teems with tadpoles, and frogs leap everywhere along the banks. The river carries ample water year-round, except during rare stretches of extreme drought.
Directions
Manikiatis Waterfall can be accessed from both sides of the gorge.
From the West
If you have a 4×4 vehicle, the closest approach is from the west. About 200 meters after passing through the center of Manikia village (coming from Neochori), turn left onto the dirt road (location). Drive for about 4 km toward the chapel of Agios Ioannis and the waterfall’s parking area by the riverbank (location). See the route.
From the parking area, hike upstream for about 10 minutes, following occasional trail markers. You’ll cross the river a couple of times and climb over some rocks. Depending on the season and water level, you might need to step into the water and wade. You’ll pass the first pool, and soon enough, you’ll arrive at the main waterfall.
From the East
If you don’t have a 4×4 (or prefer not to challenge your 2WD vehicle), the quicker approach is from the east. Along the Neochori–Manikia road, stop where a dirt road descends to the left (location). A wooden sign for the waterfall is nailed to a tree, and there’s room for two cars to park off the asphalt on the opposite shoulder.
Descend the zigzagging dirt road for about a kilometer until it ends. From there, follow a sparsely marked but clear footpath to the river. Cross the small wooden bridge and continue straight up the slope until you reach another dirt road. Follow that road rightward to the parking area, then proceed as described above.
Other Hiking Routes
There are, of course, many longer but equally beautiful hiking routes to the waterfall. One popular and only slightly longer option starts about 1.5 km before the previously mentioned eastern trailhead. Strong and experienced hikers could even follow the river’s entire course—either from its source in Seta or from its mouth at Agios Georgios Beach.
Accommodation
Near the waterfall, two countryside lodgings are available—one in Makrychori and one in Seta.
Many more places to stay are available in the lower mountain villages. Search using the map below.
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Video
Photos
View (and feel free to use) all my photographs from Manikiatis Waterfall in higher resolution.
