The Odontotos rack railway, also known as the rack railway of Kalavryta, is one of the most impressive and historic railways in Greece. It connects Diakopto with Kalavrita, passing through the impressive gorge of the Vouraikos river. Its route is unique, offering passengers enchanting images of the nature and architecture of the region.
Historical frame
Construction of the railway began in 1889 and was completed in 1896, during the reign of George I. The idea for the creation of the railway belonged to Charilaos Trikoupis, who wanted to create a means of transport that would connect the mountainous regions of Achaia with the coastal zone, thus enhancing the economic and social development of the region.
Route and Technical Characteristics
Odontotos rack railway has a total length of about 22 kilometers. The route starts from Diakopto, passes through the Vouraikos gorge and ends at Kalavryta. The railway line is unique in Greece as it combines a conventional railway line with sections of rack railway, which allow the train to climb the steep slopes of the mountain.
The train moves in two phases: on the flat sections it uses the conventional railway line, while on the steep sections, where the gradient reaches up to 17.5%, it uses the toothed line, consisting of gears that “bite” a central toothed rail, allowing the safe ascent and descent.
Natural Beauty and Sights
The rack railway route passes through the Vouraikos river gorge, which is full of natural beauty such as waterfalls, caves and impressive rock formations. Along the route there are various stops that allow visitors to explore the area:
- Mega Spilaio Stop: This stop allows passengers to visit the historic monastery of Megalo Spilaio, which is built on a rock and offers a panoramic view of the area.
- Zachlorou Stop: A picturesque village where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and explore the traditional houses and trails of the area.
Current Status and Usage
Odontotos rack railway is today one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. It operates all year round, offering regular routes for visitors who want to live this unique experience. Line and train maintenance is ongoing, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers.
The rack railway ride is an experience that combines history, technology and natural beauty, making it one of the most unforgettable railway journeys in the world. Whether it’s for nature, history lovers or simply for those looking for a unique travel experience, the jagged edge of Kalavryta is definitely a destination worth visiting.
