Zagorochoria , A unique excursion!

An excursion to the stone-built villages of Zagori: Discover unique activities and learn about the best view points of Vikos Gorge!

A little north of Ioannina, the road will lead you to a steep and vast ridge: Welcome to Zagori, also known as Zagorochoria!

More than 40 traditional villages, built with traditional grey stone, are located on the mountain slopes, giving the impression that they are literally hanging within the Vikos Gorge!

The first thing that will impress you as soon as you arrive in the area is the narrow roads, which increase the difficulty of moving around easily by car.

However, this won't stop you from enjoying the route, which is full of arched bridges and traditional buildings.

Although Zagorochoria is just an hour from the city of Ioannina, as soon as you arrive, you feel completely cut off.

The main attraction of the area is the amazing Vikos Gorge, which is almost 1 km deep – one of the largest in Europe!

There is access to the gorge from several areas, and you can enjoy it from different perspectives.

The entire area belongs to the Northern Pindos National Park and is considered protected.

Throughout the Zagori region, you'll find unique walking trails through nature, and there are amazing hidden paths connecting the villages – something that locals used extensively in older times when there were no roads or even cars in Zagorochoria.

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Map of Zagorochoria

Below you can see the map of Zagori, which will help you explore the area better. Read our guide to the end as you will discover unique areas and the best view points for the Vikos Gorge!

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Zagorochoria attractions

The main attractions in Zagorochoria are both the traditional stone-built houses and, of course, the Vikos Gorge – one of the largest in the world!

The combination of these two makes Zagorochoria a must-visit destination, especially during the autumn or spring months, allowing you to enjoy places like Drakolimni more (access is impossible in winter).

When you find yourself in Zagorochoria, you should explore as many villages as possible!

Each village has its own history, and you'll savour traditional flavours from the local inhabitants!

Below, we will analyse the most important villages in Zagorochoria and what you should visit!

Kolymbithres Papingo

A unique and popular attraction in Zagorochoria are the 'Kolymbithres' (natural pools) in Papingo.

These are natural 'tubs' formed by the flow of water descending from the mountain and pouring between the stones.

The Kolymbithres are accessible approximately 500 metres before you reach Mikro Papingo. There you will see a sign on the road to the left, where you will walk a path for 5-6 minutes.

If you visit during the summer months, you can even try swimming – but expect the water to be very cold!

Walk by the Voidomatis River

The Voidomatis River is formed by the waters of Zagori and is a beautiful river, 12 km long, that flows through the villages.

On the river, you will encounter perhaps the purest waters you have ever seen! Crystal clear blue waters that tempt you to swim!

Here you can find rafting and kayaking activities, and above the central meeting point of the river, you'll see an arched bridge with a unique feature: only one car at a time can cross it!

If you come in summer, you can dive into the crystal clear but icy waters of the river, beneath the peaks of Mount Zagori!

Explore the Vikos Gorge!

Regardless of whether you like hiking or not (although to explore Zagorochoria, you'll need to do quite a bit of walking!), the Vikos Gorge is a must-visit and must-explore!

One of the best viewpoints to observe the awe of the gorge is the Beloi spot.

If you are hiking, there is signage available throughout the route, which will help you not get lost and reach your destination as quickly as possible.

Drakolimni

Drakolimni in Zagorochoria is a special attraction that you must definitely visit, provided the road is open!

To reach the lake, which is located at the top of the mountain, you should visit the area in summer or autumn – before the first snows begin.

If you are a hiking enthusiast, you can complete this route in 4.5 hours – but make sure the weather is ideal.

On the way to Drakolimni, there is a refuge with a capacity of approximately 50 people. If you plan to visit, organise your booking in advance!

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Seek out the famous bridges in Zagorochoria!

Hunting for and photographing the stone bridges in Zagorochoria can prove to be one of the most entertaining activities!

As you drive along carelessly, a beautiful, narrow stone bridge will suddenly appear!

In the Zagorochoria region, there are more than 180 small and large bridges – after all, the Epirote bridges are known throughout Greece for their rare beauty!

Some of the most popular bridges in Zagori are the Petsioni, Plakidas, Lazaridis bridges, as well as the Mylos bridge.

You can explore each bridge and take amazing photos!

Between two steep rocks below the village of Koukouli, you will find one of the most picturesque bridges in the area – the Kokkori bridge.

It was built in 1750 and has been maintained in excellent condition ever since.

Zagorochoria: Which village to stay in

Whichever village you choose to stay in, it will surely impress you and meet your expectations. There is no best village in Zagorochoria and worst – they are all equally impressive!

In any case, once you are in Zagorochoria, you should explore the entire area and discover the beauties of each village!

We stayed at "Orestis' House," which offers traditional hospitality in a stone-built guesthouse in Ano Pedina.

The area is very good for exploring the surrounding region and also has 1-2 tavernas and cafes.

Other areas in Zagorochoria for accommodation include Aristi, Kipoi, Monodendri, and Papingo.

Choose a guesthouse that you like – after all, Zagorochoria requires quite a bit of driving to be able to explore the entire area!

Read our exclusive article "Where to stay in Zagorochoria" where you will find the best recommendations on where to stay!

[ See all hotels in Zagorochoria ]

Aristi

In Aristi, you will find some of the best hotels in the area!

The Aristi area is one of the most developed in Zagorochoria, as it offers restaurants, cafes, and shops with traditional products, in addition to accommodation.

Aristi is built at an altitude of approximately 650 metres and is only 50 km from the centre of Ioannina.

You will find Aristi on the road to Papingo.

Tsepelovo

Tsepelovo is the largest village in the area by population and the seat of the Municipality of Tymfi.

Here you will find the "Estia" Cultural Centre as well as the Holy Church of Agios Nikolaos.

In Tsepelovo, you will find several accommodations, and the village has a lively atmosphere on winter weekends.

 

Monodendri

Monodendri's location provides excellent access to the Vikos Gorge.

The landscape in the village is distinctive and it is a pole of attraction for tourists.

Here you will find the Rizarion Exhibition Centre with notable art exhibitions.

Monodendri offers endless views of Zagorochoria and is one of the most picturesque villages.

Don't forget to try the local delicacies such as the Zagorisia pies!

 

Papingo – Mikro and Megalo

Both Mikro and Megalo Papingo are among the most popular villages in Zagorochoria, even though they are a bit further away than the others.

Here you can stroll through the stone alleys and cobbled streets, and relax while enjoying fresh sweets at Sterna.

As we mentioned above, a visit to the Papingo kolymbithres is a must and something you absolutely have to do!

Zagorochoria is an ideal destination all year round. In winter, with the fireplace burning and snow falling, the scenery is dreamy.

On the other hand, summer gives you the opportunity to walk and explore the entire area and enjoy Drakolimni and the Vikos Gorge!

Useful links for your trip:

Cheap hotels in Zagorochoria

Flight tickets to Ioannina

Car rental from Ioannina