The Highlands of Greece (Epirus, Zagori region, Meteora)
![](https://www.geo-routes.com/assets/Epirus_and_the_highlands_of_Greece.jpg)
Pindos, the largest mountain range in Greece, sets continuation of the Illyrian and Dalmatian Alps. In this heavy mountain range lies Epirus, an area of remarkable natural value and biodiversity and rich historic and cultural heritage. The rivers sculptured the rocks, formed gorges and canyons, while the dense forests consisting home for wide variety of flora and fauna species. Zagori spreads to over 1,000 square klms, while its 46 traditional villages are considered to be paradise for voyagers seeking exploring one of the most pure and beautiful regions in Greece.
Detailed Itinerary
Day : 1 - Athens - Monodendri
08h30 departure to Epirus via Domokos, Kalambaka and Ioannina. Arrival to the beautiful village of Monodendri situated at 1060m which provides spectacular view to Tymfi and Astraka mountains, Vikos Gorge and Voidomatis river. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day : 2 - Oxia, Stone Forest, Kokori & Kalogeriko bridges, Vradeto steps, Dilofo
Arrival to Oxia which offers breathtaking view to the 12klms long Vikos gorge. On the way, you see the Stone Forest, a unique geological phenomenon of huge rocks sharply rise like trees. Next follows the famous arched stone bridge of Kokkori being during WWII the crossing point of ammunition and supplies to Greek soldiers. Later in Kipoi village you see the three-arched bridge of Kalogeriko, while in Kapesovo you will ascend the steps of Vradeto (1½ hrs hiking), being a cobblestone path from indigenous stones that until 1970 was the only passage to the traditional settlement of Vradeto. To Vradeto, the highest living spot in Zagori (1,340m) with just 10 inhabitants, you will enjoy a light meal to the square of the village. Descending the slopes of Tymfi mountain, you visit Dilofo, another well preserved traditional settlement which the buildings are made of local slate. Return to Monodendri in the afternoon. Time at leisure.
Day : 3 - Rizarios Handicraft School, Klidonia bridge, Voidomatis river
Today, in Rizarios Handicraft School (est. in 1979), you gain knowledge on how the school is preserving traditional arts and providing education and vocational training to the girls of the region. Next follows Klidonia, where Voidomatis meets Aoos river in Konitsa valley. At Voidomatis, the cleanest river in Greece, you walk the arched stoned bridge of Klidonia that was built in 1853, sponsored by Balkiz Hanum from the harem of Malik Pasha, while if you dare (weather permitted), you may try swimming to the crystal clear waters. Return to Monodendri, dinner, overnight.
Day : 4 - Meteora, Great Meteoron Monastery, Athens
Today, last day of this fascinating journey to Epirus, you arrive to Meteora, one of the largest monastic ensembles in Greece. Visit the largest of all, the Monastery of Great Meteoron, located on a rock of 400m height which safeguarding numerous treasures and manuscripts, precious relics and heirlooms from Greece and abroad. Arrival to Athens in late evening.
Photo Gallery
What's Included
- Transportation and in-depth visits as per detailed itinerary
- Admission fees as per programme
- 3 nights accommodation with breakfast
- 3 traditional main meals
- Geo Routes escort
- Geo Routes material
- Liability insurance
- VAT
- *** excluded: personal expenses, tips, gratuities, anything not explicitly stated above
Duration
4 days cultural heritage journey
(Tour code: GR020)
Departures
- Daily on request
- Βookings close 14 days prior to departure
- Program does not operate on 6 January, 25 March, 1 May, Orthodox Easter, 28 October, Christmas & New Year periods
UNESCO Sites
- Meteora (1988)
Highlights
- Monodendri
- Oxia
- Bridges of Kokori, Kalogeriko and Klidonia
- Vradeto steps
- Dilofo
- Rizarios Handicraft School
- Vikos gorge
- Voidomatis river
- Meteora, Great Meteoron Monastery
Geo-keys
![Trekking Trails](https://www.geo-routes.com/wp-content/themes/geo-routes/assets/img/trekking-key.jpg)
![Cultural Heritage](https://www.geo-routes.com/wp-content/themes/geo-routes/assets/img/cultural-key.jpg)
![Flora & Fauna (Forest and Ocean Life)](https://www.geo-routes.com/wp-content/themes/geo-routes/assets/img/forest-key.jpg)
![History – Archaeology](https://www.geo-routes.com/wp-content/themes/geo-routes/assets/img/history-key.jpg)
![Gastronomy – Agricultural Tourism](https://www.geo-routes.com/wp-content/themes/geo-routes/assets/img/gastronomy-key.jpg)
![Places of Religious Interest](https://www.geo-routes.com/wp-content/themes/geo-routes/assets/img/religious-key.jpg)
Tour Pricing
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