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From Limenaria the road branches off behind Kalivia to Maries and Kastro. From this junction, drive 3.5 km towards Kastro and then turn left into a wide dirt road. After about 300 m you reach the first construction ruins of the former opencast mine. The landscape there has the typical rust of iron ore and forms a photogenic contrast with the green of the vegetation. The mining was discontinued in the early 1960s.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
The monastery, which is worth a visit, lies between Scala Maries and Maries. Above the monastery is the photogenic Convent Ruin of Stavronikita, which is also worth a visit. A path approximately 400 metres long leads from the monastery car park up to the ruins.
The lead-silver ore opencast mining 2 km northeast of Limenaria with tunnels was in operation since ancient times. Old tunnels can still be seen today in the large open pit mine from 1903 to 1914. About 350 m before the entrance to Metalia Beach (coming from Limenaria) leads a dirt road to the open pit 2 km away. The large bright studs with standing height are very interesting photo opportunities for 'lost place' photographers.
Only a few foundation walls remain of the medieval castle (built between the 13th and 14th centuries, abandoned in the mid-15th century) located at a place called ‘Melissa’ or ‘Paliokastro’ on a small hill north of the village of Kalyvia.
Μαρίες
A very original old mountain village with nice restaurants.
Κάστρο
In the mountainous center of the island, it used to be a dilapidated village. It has been partly rebuilt, but it's more the landscape that makes it worth going there. The environment is more impressive than the place itself. From Limenaria a winding but well-maintained road leads to the village. Two small restaurants invite the diner to linger in clean mountain air. If you want to visit the church, you get the key in the restaurant next door. At the end of the village is the former castle, from which only part of the fortification walls are preserved. On the castle grounds today stands a chapel and an ossuary. A small waterfall is located near the village and can be reached on foot or 4WD from Kastro. To get to the waterfall take the dirt track on the east side of Kastro, which is a 3-4 km journey and goes through a beautiful and pristine forest. It's most impressive to see during the spring as it tends to dry up during the summer. Alternatively you can reach the waterfall from Theologos by vehicle.
Λιμενάρια
The second largest village on the island and has a lot of tourism. The long sandy promenade is lined with restaurants, gift shops, cafes, pubs, etc. But even in high season the beach is not overcrowded. There are supermarkets, banks, doctors, police station in the center. The new build Marina is deep enough for sailing boats. From Limenaria leads a new paved road to Kastro fillage.