The Pramnos-Atheras mountain chain rises slowly towards the southern side of the island to reach its greatest height at quite a far distance from Armenistis which is situated on the north coast. The Pramnos Highlands are remote, rarely visited, and invisable from the coast at Armenistis. Few places in the Aegean islands can claim such a diversity of wild and strange natural beauty. Pramnos-Atheras features stone/boulder deserts, green forest plateaus and valleys, streams, rocky hills and spectacular cliffs, as well as abundant plant and wildlife.

From our starting point in Armenistis we will first drive our way uphill through the picturesque forest and village area known as "Rahes." After passing through "Christos" (a traditional village of Rahes and mountain holiday resort for Ikarians) we will begin our ascent near the 13th century Monastery of "Evangelistra Mounte". Our walking trip starts from the two beautiful little lakes in "Vathes" valley. This is an idylic rural mountain area surrounded by deep green pine forests. The site was chosen as a safe and natural rehabilitation center to shelter injured waterbirds. The lake area and the encompasing valley is notable for the harmonious relationship that exists between eco-friendly agricultural activities, nature and wildlife.

As we ascend up into this surprisingly continental site, we will come across the ancient stone aqueduc of the Mounte Monastery, and using this as a foot path, we will cross the pineforest to get to even higher grounds. Along the aqueduc footpath we are surrounded by varied tree and plant species, little streams and springs nourished by rain and snow fall, and mountain wildlife. This is the typical landscape of the interior of "Pramnos-Atheras" and the domain of numerous wild goat herds. Slowly manouvering around the great granite boulders drifting down from the mountain sides we will pass just under the majestic "Megalofos" and then into the spectacular mountain plateau of "Zizokambos."

In contrast with other weather beaten high places of the "Pramnos-Atheras" range, "Zizokambos" is covered by thick foliage of oaks and other hardy trees that can endure severe winter weather conditions. We will ramble for a while along the rocky hilltops with their mysterious rock formations until we come to the breathtaking cliffs of the southern side of the plateau. Here we will have an aerial view of the seaside village of "Manganitis" far below. Moving further along into this hidden wilderness we will then come across an old stone hut belonging to one of the local mountain shepards who by prior arrangement will be waiting for us to be our host for a, by this time much needed, traditional Ikarian luncheon feast. Under the cool shade of mountain trees at a stone table we will dine on fresh wild goat meat grilled on hot slate, homemade cheese, garden grown Greek salad and plenty of strong & delicious Ikarian wine.