Neda, the only river with a female name, is located on the borders of the prefectures Ilia and Messinia. It runs through the homonym gorge below the village of Figalia. According to traditions, the young men of Ancient Figalia used to wash their hair in the waters of Neda to gain strength. A few kilometers west of Figalia lies Stomio, a large cave of remarkable beauty. The legend says that this is the place, where the nymphs Neda, Thisoa and Agno hid Zeus in order to avoid being noticed by Saturn, who ate his children. Just before reaching Neda, beneath a large platan you will encounter the ancient drinking fountain (Krini) which is mentioned in Pausanias and continues constantly gushing water for over 2500 years. From this drinking fountain starts the trail for the crossing of the gorge, which is adorned with rich vegetation. Platans, oak and fig trees as well as wildflowers compose a scenery of unrivalled beauty, while the river that runs through the gorge, forms waterfalls of 50m in height contributing to this unique landscape.
Hiking in the gorge will be an unforgettable experience, while swimming in the lakes formed by the waterfalls is an experience you should not miss.