Zagori – Metsovo – Pogoni – Ioannina
Experience the heart of Epirus
6 days - All year round
From 560€
How many of the 46 stone villages of Zagori can you explore in just one trip? Accept the challenge and get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure in the mountainous region of Epirus!
The villages of Zagori, also known as Zagorochoria, nestled into deep forests, gorges and craggy mountains, and connected by a network of stone arch bridges and stone cobbled paths, will make every day of your trip a true discovery! Monodendri, Aristi, Mikro Papigko, Vradeto, Konitsa, Metsovo are only some of the villages you will experience along the way, while the impressive Vikos Canyon, the enchanting old town and castle of Ioannina, and the archaeological site of Dodona will certainly be the standout “jewels” of this excursion.
Rafting, swimming or horseback riding at the Voidomatis River, hiking at a scenic riverside trail at Aoos River that crosses the historical bridge of Konitsa, plus the famous Vradeto Steps Trail with 1200 stonestairs, will make this journey even more exciting!
And if you have completed the challenge with the villages of Zagori, there’s also the region of Pogoni, which has another 38 villages lying along the Greek-Albanian borders. Don’t worry, you don’t have to visit them all – unless you are an avid road-tripper! 😉
Ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture, breathtaking nature and warm hospitality of the northwestern Greece?
Trip highlights
The spectacular Vikos Gorge
With its depth exceeding 900m and its width ranging from 1000m to only a few meters at its narrowest part, Vikos Gorge is listed in Guiness World Records, as the deepest canyon in the world in proportion to its width. You will have the chance to marvel at its wild beauty and deep limestone cliffs many times during your trip, and in the spring, autumn and summer months, you can also take the legendary 14km Vikos Gorge Trail that starts from Monodendri village and ends in Vikos village!
The crystal-clear waters of Voidomatis River
Voidomatis is considered the cleanest and coldest river in Europe! Will you dare to dive into its glacial waters, which maintain a stable temperature of 6°C all year round? You can also experience its wild natural beauty through an easy-going rafting descent in its calm waters or an unforgettable horseback riding route in the heart of the Vikos-Aoos National Park! Get ready to connect with the rare and graceful Pindos Horses!
The idyllic stone village of Mikro Papigko
Lying on the slopes of Mount Tymphi, just under the majestic 5 towers of Astraka Peak (2.436m), Mikro Papigko seems to have come out of a fairytale. The tranquil yet wild surrounding landscape will captivate your heart forever, while the natural rock pools of Papigko offer the perfect spot for a refreshing swim!
The natural and spiritual charms of Konitsa
Cross the famous single-arch bridge of Konitsa, over the Aoos River, and take one of the most scenic walks of your life that leads to the Panagia Stomiou Monastery, revealing the stunning natural beauty of the Aoos gorge. At a close distance from Konitsa, you will also encounter the Monastery of the Virgin Mary Molyvdoskepastos. Its chapel was built in the 6th century and some of its frescos are still preserved, taking you back through its long history!
Ioannina: the city by Lake Pamvotida
An amazing scenery, blending the influences of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and a history that stretches back to the 6th century AD! Visit the Castle of Ioannina with the Fethiye Mosque and the Aslan Pasha Mosque, wander around the wonderful Old Town of Ioannina, taste the delicious traditional sweets and pies, and take the ferry to the Island in the middle of Lake Pamvotida, where Kyra Frosini and 16 other women were drowned by Ali Pasha.
And there are many more to discover, such as the amazing Perama Cave with 19 different kinds of stalactites and stalagmites, and the famous Pavlos Vrellis Museum of Wax Effigies that hosts over 150 wax effigies inspired by major events in Greek history!
The Archaelogical site of Dodona
The trip would be incomplete without a visit to the Oracle of Dodona, the oldest oracle in ancient Greece, dating back to the 2nd millennium B.C. The oracle was initially dedicated to Mother Earth (Gaia), and later to the divine couple Zeus and Dione. Dodona was the second most significant and renowned oracle after the Oracle of Delphi. Will you dare receive the prophecy?
The lively mountain village of Metsovo
Amphitheatrically built on the slopes of Central Pindos, at an elevation of 1156m, Metsovo impresses from the very first sight with its cobbled alleys and stone-built houses with slate tiled roofs. It is famous for each unique architecture and the traditional “Metsovitikes” recipes, such as the delicious PDO smoked cheese “Metsovone”. The best finale for a trip full of memories, tastes and unforgettable experiences!
Included in the tour package:
- Detailed itinerary for your trip
- Key travel information, including daily tips and recommendations on attractions, outdoor activities and hiking trails.
- Accommodation
- Breakfast
- Car rental with unlimited mileage and two authorized drivers
- Car insurance & full damage waiver
- Activities and entrance fees, clearly stated in the trip outline
- Public Liability Insurance
- Taxes and VAT
Not included in the tour package:
- Flights to and from Greece (Athens/Thessaloniki airports)
- Meals (for you to choose the restaurants and flavors you really like)
- Fuel, toll and parking costs - Estimated distance for the full trip: 1350km, Estimated toll cost: 90€ (from Athens)
- Climate Resilience Fee per room per night - collected upon departure from the hotel
- Prices are per person and are indicative, based on a trip for two in 2025. The estimate includes an economy-class rental car, accommodation in hotels up to 3 stars, and travel during the mid-season (e.g. May, October, November). Rates reflect current service costs, applicable taxes, and other relevant pricing factors.
Book Your Next Adventure
You are just 6+1 steps away from your next self-drive adventure:
1. Choose your dream destination and travel dates.
2. Answer a few short questions about your interests and hobbies.
3. Get an overview of the trip highlights, attractions, activities and final cost per person based on your preferences.
4. Pay a deposit of 30% of the total amount and sign the contract.
5. Book your flights.
6. Receive a complete, customized travel program/itinerary with key information about all the places, beaches, villages, attractions and interesting spots you will encounter along the way, upon completing the full payment.
6 + 1. Get ready for the ultimate self-guided trip in Greece!