Zagorohoria, Greece
Greece
Into the slate-and-stone villages of the Zagori in the Pindos Mountains of Epirus, one of Greece's most untouched regions where roads are steep and narrow, stone bridges arch over rushing rivers, and village squares are shaded by centuries-old plane trees. The antidote to the Greek islands.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Ioannina
A lakeside city and gateway to the Zagori, with an island where Ottoman ruler Ali Pasha was assassinated in 1822. The old bazaar quarter is the finest in northern Greece.
- Monodendri
Gateway village to Vikos Gorge, its 15th-century monastery of Agia Paraskevi perches above a sheer 1,000-metre drop to the river. One of 46 protected stone-built Zagori villages.
- Vikos Gorge
The world's deepest gorge relative to its width, a 12 km canyon up to 1,000 metres deep carved by the Voidomatis River. Road viewpoints are nearly as dramatic as the walking trail.
- Megalo Papingo
The most scenic of the Zagori villages, a cluster of grey stone houses below the jagged Astraka peaks. The natural rock pool of Rogovo above the village is a rewarding short hike.
- Dilofo
One of the prettiest Zagori villages, with grey stone mansions, cobbled lanes, and a central plane tree the size of a small building. Goat herds are a reliable traffic distraction.
- Konitsa
A market town at the Zagori's northern edge above the Aoos River gorge. The Ottoman single-arch bridge over the Aoos is one of the most photographed stone spans in Greece.
Where to Eat
- Kanela & GaryfalloGreek
A cozy taverna in Monodendri offering traditional Greek dishes with a modern twist, using locally sourced ingredients.
- Dias RestaurantGreek
Located in Megalo Papingo, this restaurant serves authentic Greek cuisine with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Salvia RestaurantMediterranean
Situated in Aristi, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a menu inspired by Mediterranean flavors.
Things to Do
- Agia Paraskevi MonasteryHistoric Site
A 15th-century monastery perched on the edge of Vikos Gorge, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's history.
- Papingo Rock PoolsNature
Natural rock pools formed by the Rogovo stream, perfect for a refreshing swim amidst scenic surroundings.
- Stone Forest of EpirusNature
A unique geological formation near Monodendri, featuring limestone rocks that resemble a petrified forest.
Travel advisory
Roads through the Zagori villages are often single-track, steep, and without guardrails; confident driving on narrow mountain roads is advisable. Winter snow can close higher passes between December and March. A detailed regional map or offline GPS is useful as signage is sparse.