Megali Ntouskia (1068m) is the 3rd highest peak of Geraneia and is situated in the wild center of the range, east of the Prarthi plateau, and features a beautiful but well-hidden limestone headwall on its northern aspect. Both Megali Ntouskia (1068m) and Mikri Ntouskia (992m) are dominated by characteristic Mediterranean limestone terrain covered by lush pine, something which alongside its remote location makes it a sanctuary for wildlife.
The twin summits of Ntouskia feature only two (2) old traditional rock climbs on the north headwall with a height of 180m and graded a Difficult (D), but their exact topo is not known. The quality of the rock is also unknown.
Access
Access to Megali Ntouskia is best described as adventurous as it is only possible via the peripheral dirt road, which can be approached either from Loutraki or Pisia and then a 1hr hike from the south or north respectively. The best option is to approach from Pisia, following the northern path that starts from ancient Oinoi at 450m, which leads straight to the headwall at 900m.
Climbing history
Even though Geraneia was known to climbers since at least 1948, the inaccessible peaks of Megali and Mikri Ntouskia remained enigmatic. In October 1961, during what was likely an informal meeting, roped parties of G. Tsamakidis, F. Galinos, O Koletis, S. Antypas, G. Kagiafas, I. Kanas, will complete the first two, and only lines, on the headwall of Megali Ntouskia, with a height of 180m and grading them as “Difficult” (D).