Mount Ainos

Mount Ainos, also known as Ainos or Monte Nero, is the highest mountain on the Greek island of Kefalonia, rising majestically to a height of 1,628 metres above sea level. Every nature lover will find something for himself here. Whether you're just looking for a place to go for a walk, or you want to birdwatch or experience wild horses, you won't leave disappointed. Even if you don't find the horses.

Hiking up Mount Ainos offers an exciting opportunity to explore the rugged terrain, dense forests and breathtaking views. You can choose the hiking trail according to your level. As you ascend the slopes of Mount Ainos, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including lush valleys, rocky outcrops and the glistening waters of the Ionian Sea stretching to the horizon.

somewhere along the way, when we realized we wouldn't see the horses.

Wild horses

One of the most characteristic features of Mount Ainos is the population of half-wild horses, which live mainly on the southern side. That's why our steps were directed here as you can find them drinking from the fresh water spring in the monastery of Zoodohos Pigi. After the initial climb upwards we were lucky and came across horse tracks, unfortunately, the horses were no longer there and it was getting dark. The top of the hill didn't tempt the kids, so we just enjoyed the beautiful views and headed back the way we came. Along the way, we met a large herd of goats, who were very reluctant to get out of our way.

We're tracking horses.

Diverse flora is ubiquitous

If your goal is the summit, you should start from the north. The path leads a short distance from the summit. Unfortunately, this road was closed at the time of our visit so we tried to find various alternative ways to enjoy the views and look for horses.

In addition to its natural splendour, Mount Ainos is also home to diverse flora and fauna. More than 400 plant species have been recorded on "Mount Ainos". Some of them are Kefalonian endemics, such as Viola kefalonica (Kefalonian violet) and Scutellaria rupestris subsp. kefalonica (Kefalonian shinbark violet), which is only found at higher altitudes on the mountain. Birdwatchers can enjoy a variety of bird species, from majestic predators soaring overhead to brightly coloured songbirds flitting among the branches.

herd of goats along the road.