Small & Boutique Hotels in Zagori
Located in the heart of the Epirus region in northwestern Greece, in the shadow of the Pindos Mountains, Zagori is a natural wonder forgotten by time. Scattered across this 1000 square kilometer region, 46 stone villages, or Zagorohoria, exist quietly amid dense forests, steep cliffs and endless valleys. The villages have long been connected to each other by stone stepping stones and arched bridges, like something out of a storybook. Today, these places, where even modern roads are slow to arrive, are home to unique hiking trails. You're unlikely to encounter crowds when you visit Zagori, but it's one of the few places where wildlife still thrives. Located within the Vikos-Aoos National Park, the area is home to a wide range of ecosystems, from brown bears and lynxes to otters and more than 120 species of birds. The only sounds you'll hear are the howling of the wind in the trees or the melody of a river hitting the stones.
When to go to Zagori?
If you are planning a hike, April through October is the best time. Between May and July, Zagori's meadows burst into wildflower color, with red poppies, purple sage and white daffodils spreading like a painting. In September and October, the forests turn golden yellow and crimson. In summer, the weather is hot and dry; in spring and fall, it's a bit of a surprise. It's easy to experience four seasons in one day, but the beauty of the mountains lies in this uncertainty. In winter, the region changes completely. The villages covered with snow are like silent postcards. There are also places to ski in the region, and nature offers many off-piste areas suitable for skiing.
Things to do in Zagori
1. Hiking the Vikos Gorge: According to the Guinness Book of Records, the Vikos Gorge is the deepest gorge in the world relative to its width. Starting from the village of Monodendri, you can reach the other end of the gorge in about six hours. The limestone cliffs and forest landscapes along the trail are breathtaking. Reaching the Voidomatis Springs at the end of the trail and cooling off in the icy waters is a priceless experience.
2. Rafting on the Voidomatis River: One of the cleanest rivers in Europe, the Voidomatis offers a pleasant rafting route with calm waters suitable even for beginners. The shores covered with plane trees and the icy waters will give you unforgettable moments.
3. Climb Mount Tymfi: One of Zagori's most impressive mountains, Tymfi is notable for its challenging but fascinating hiking routes. Legendary glacial lakes such as Drakolimni (Dragon Lake) accompany you as you reach the summit. The hikes to the summit of Astraka are a favorite among nature lovers.
4. Explore the Vradeto Steps: This ancient road of about 1200 stone steps used to connect the villages of Vradeto and Kapesovo. Today, with walks accompanied by Vikos views, you can touch the past and be alone with nature at the same time.
5. Cycling on Mountain Roads: Zagori's quiet roads and foothill paths are a unique playground for cyclists. Along the routes from Samarina to Vovousa, you can ride through valleys, get lost in the forests and explore the region with e-bike tours.
6. Don't Forget to Taste the Local Flavors: Zagori's cuisine is shaped in harmony with nature. There are more than 178 different pie recipes made with wild herbs. Blatsaria and ‘lazy pie’ are the most famous ones. The meat dishes are hearty, but there are also great options for vegetarians. Especially the bean stew with butter is a must try.
How to get to Zagori?
The closest airport is in Ioannina, but it is usually preferred via Athens. You can get from Athens to Ioannina by bus in about 5 hours, then take a taxi to one of the villages. Your best option is to rent a car because the mountain roads are winding and transportation requires some skill.
Other Experiences in Zagori
Zagori Off-Road Tours & Cooking Workshops: Learn traditional cooking while exploring stone bridges.
Valia Calda Nature Trips: Short nature walks with swimming breaks in natural pools.
Kalarrites-Syrrako Hike: A scenic passage between the ‘twin villages’ of Tzoumerka.
Dragon Lake & Flegga Lakes Hike: Nature and tranquility await you at the summit.
White Truffle Hunt and Cooking Workshop: Searching for truffles in the forest and cooking them into a meal is a unique experience.