The gorge of Kleisoura is situated in a stupendous region of Aitoloakarnania, 15 km away from Agrinio. The gorge is crossed by the national road of "Antirrio-Agrinio", on the way to Agrinio. At the entrance of the gorge, there is a parking area and a wooden kiosk surrounded by pine trees and steep hills. The steep limestone walls reach 150 m. high and stand on both sides of the road. The chapel of "Panaghia Eleousa" (Madonna the Merciful) is carved on the gorge walls. The gorge is ideal for climbing throughout the year. However, it should be avoided during the rainy periods and on very hot summer days. Springtime and fall are the best seasons for climbing in the gorge. 

The Chapel

The chapel of "Panaghia Eleousa" (Madonna the Merciful) (photo by Konstantinos Pefanis) is carved in the rocks of the gorge walls. It is celebrated on the day of "Zoodochos Pigi", when worshippers from the surrounding regions visit the chapel.

On the lower level, you will see a monastery and the busts of Kosmas Aitolos and Giannis Gounaris, who lived there as a monk after the Greek liberation from the Turkish occupation.   

Flora

The flora of the region includes: the endemic Centaurea sp that grows on rocks and clusters of Judas trees (Cercis siliquastrum and nettle trees (Celtis australis). You will also see forests with oak trees on the second half of the route. The gorge is also home to 12 different species of raptors, 8 of which nest in the area.