Greece Unknown: Epirus

Photo: Dragon Lake, Zagori, North Pindus

When people think about Greece, they usually imagine the famous islands of Santorini and Mykonos and other popular places like the Acropolis and Delphi. However, there exist lesser-known, yet equally stunning places worth to be discovered. In this blog, I want to introduce you to the surprising and unexpected sides of Greece.

Epirus: A Mountain Paradise
Nestled in the northwest of Greece, Epirus emerges as a mountainous haven, captivating the hearts of those seeking tranquility and adventure alike. The Pindus Mountains, shrouded in myth and mystery, offer a playground for avid hikers and explorers.

Vikos Gorge: Nature's Grand Canyon
At the heart of Epirus lies the crown jewel – Vikos Gorge, often dubbed as Greece's answer to the Grand Canyon. Located within the larger Vikos–Aoös National Park and etched by the Voidomatis River, it reaches depths of about 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) while being only 1100 meters (3,609 feet) at its widest point. A hike along its rim unveils panoramic views, plunging cliffs, and the palpable energy of a land that has stood the test of time. more ...

Zagori Villages: Where Time Stands Still
Delve deeper into Epirus, and close to the Vikos gorge and the Zagori area emerge as a testament to architectural brilliance and harmonious coexistence with nature. The Zagori villages, including Kipoi, Monodendri, and Dilofo, just to name a few, showcase a unique stone-carved symphony. The buildings, crafted from locally quarried gray stone, blend seamlessly with the natural environment, creating an enchanting tableau that transcends time. more ...

Where to stay:
Aristi Mountain Resort - member of "National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World is the perfect starting point for exploring the UNESCO-listed Zagorochoria villages.

Mikro Papigo 1700 - situated on the left slope of Small Papigo, offers easy access to alpine Drakolimni, Voidomatis springs, Vikos Gorge termination, and Rogovo's natural pools—all within a 10-minute walk. Ideal for exploring Zagori's top village with breathtaking views.

Avragonio - experience the charm of 6 thoughtfully restored traditional houses from the late 1760s, blending history with ecological practices by using stones from fallen buildings and restoring wood, windows, and doors.

Stay tuned for the next chapter of our exploration into the lesser-known wonders of Greece.

Happy exploring,
Theo

P.S.: Safe travels, Greek style - free, fearless, and protected by SafetyWing.