Attica: Trail in Hymettus, Bat Caves, Leontario

The hiking trails to the caves of Liondariou and Nychterida are a beautiful experience with a sense of adventure especially for the second cave (...if you finally decide to enter it). The two caves are located in the northeastern part of the mountain at the height of Agia Paraskevi and Glyka Nera. Access to the entrance of the two caves can be made from various points (see map with hiking trails) and in this case I have recorded the two routes from the starting point at Korakovouni.

The hiking trails are largely on rocks with good signage but relatively difficult for a beginner hiker (especially the one from Korakovouni to the Bat Cave). Despite this, the trails offer very beautiful views of Mesogeia, Ymittos and a subjective beauty view of the Attica basin!

As you can see from the photos inside the caves the stalactites and stalagmites have formed very interesting shapes, with an eerie aesthetic if you look at them from a different perspective and very special shades especially in the cave of Bat!

The Bat Cave offers a more special feeling as it is deep enough to the point where you reach total darkness! You will need a strong flashlight! Access to the Bat Cave is through rocks.

The cave's unique morphology of the rocks

Inside the cave

Inside the cave

In the inner corridor of the cave. (The light comes from the camera)

Interior of the cave after the entrance

Leaving the cave, cyclists on the east side of the mountain!

 

 

 

In the Leontari cave there are (I don't know what happens now.....) railings in front of the entrance, when I visited it a part was fallen down that allowed me free entrance, without a ticket!!! but also with "decoration" urban graffiti on the rock! (I don't think it has been cleaned up yet. If it has been let me know).

Hymettos Leontario cave - Entrance with bars and graffiti

Hymettos Leontario cave - Entrance

 

 

 

 

 

Hymettos Cave of Leontariou

Hymettos cave of Leontariou

 

 

 

 

 

I am not an expert on caves but I have to inform you that access always involves dangers both from falling rocks and unseen dangerous spots on the ground or other unexpected situations.

I would suggest access with knowledgeable people in the caves, wear a helmet and have a strong flashlight.

Either way the choices and conclusions are always yours!