|
This region in north of Epirus, region of breathtaking mountains and deep gorges is called Zagoria. Or Zagorohoria as it is also known, where 44 little picturesque villages form a world of its own.
So unique, that you can't find similar anywhere else in Greece. It has outstanding natural beauty and amazing views, and so much more.
Due to the mountains and gorges, the villages are quite isolated form each other and also that makes the region so special. Good roads connect most of the villages, but distances can be very long by road.
Zagoria area is way too big that you could see the whole of it in a day or even two.
Almost the entire area forms Vikos-Aoos national Park. It is fast becoming very popular among the trekkers and other holidaymakers. The main attraction in the area is the Vikos gorge.
From the village of that same name its good to start trekking to either Monodendri in the south or to the twin villages, Mikro and Megalo Papingo in the north. It's 10 km from Monodendri to Papingo villages, 7 ½ hours of walking. Vikos is the longest gorge in mainland Greece.
Other scenic areas and villages definitely worth visiting are Kapesovo, Tsepelovo, Vitsa and Aristi. From Vitsa there is a 1 ½ hours walk to the bottom of the gorge, to see the Scala of Vitsa, a beautiful stone bridge, and then back up. Easy to walk as most of it is stairs.
Driving throughout the area gives you great views and a possibility to take a swim in the ice cold rivers. Excellent roads pass several clean and fresh water rivers and streams. Or you can visit the rock pools near Megalo Papingo. A dip on a hot day is most refreshing. Another attractive feature of the villages is the architecture and the use of stone in everything. The houses are massive stone mansions with stone also used on the roofs and the alleys are naturally stone-paved. Unlike many other areas of Greece the houses here do not have balconies.
Here in Zagoria not only trekking or natural beauty are attracting visitors. This is a place for endless opportunities of outdoor life: canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, paragliding, rafting, etc. Further information can be obtained from Ioannina tourist information office. There are also several local agencies around the area for organized tours and excursions. In Konitsa, for instance, you can find companies arranging package holidays for activity holidays on the river Aoos. This river is well known throughout the world by people interested in this type of holiday.
Vitsa Trekking |
