en-"Discover Zagori: A Hidden Winter Wonderland in Greece for Adventure and Relaxation"

23/09/2024

Is Zagori Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Zagori offers a rare combination of natural beauty, traditional architecture, and outdoor activities. Whether you enjoy hiking, rafting, or simply unwinding in peaceful surroundings, Zagori is an excellent choice. The Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest in the world, along with the area's old stone bridges and untouched landscapes, make it a standout destination.

What is Zagori Known For?

Vikos Gorge: One of the deepest gorges globally, offering incredible hiking and panoramic views.
Zagorochoria Villages: A group of 46 traditional villages known for their stone architecture and serene charm.
Stone Bridges: Historic stone bridges like Plakidas and Kokkori, which add to the area's unique atmosphere.
Rafting on the Voidomatis River: Known for its crystal-clear waters, it's a popular rafting destination.
Outdoor Adventures: From hiking and rafting to mountain biking, there's something for every adventurer.

Where to Sleep in Zagori?

Zagori offers various accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to luxury boutique hotels. Key villages to stay in include:

Papigo: Close to Vikos Gorge and Drakolimni, with traditional guesthouses like Mikro Papigo 1700.
Aristi: Ideal for rafting and hiking, Aristi Mountain Resort offers luxury with scenic views.
Monodendri: A favorite among hikers due to its proximity to Vikos Gorge, with many stone-built guesthouses.

What is the Highest Village in Zagori?

The highest village is Vradeto, situated at 1,340 meters. It is famous for its traditional stone paths and the Vradeto Steps, which are a must-see for hikers.

What to Do in Zagori?

Hiking the Vikos Gorge: One of the world's most renowned hiking trails.
Rafting on the Voidomatis River: Thrilling rafting experience in crystal-clear waters.
Exploring Traditional Villages: Wander through the cobblestone streets of Papigo, Monodendri, and Kipoi.
Visit Stone Bridges: Marvel at the well-preserved bridges, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

How to Get to Zagori?

By Car: Renting a car is the most convenient option. The drive from Ioannina takes around 1-1.5 hours.
By Bus: Public buses run from Ioannina to some villages, but they are infrequent. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility.
By Taxi: Taxi fares from Ioannina to Zagori villages range from €50-€100.

Conclusion

Zagori is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking hikes, peaceful village life, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Its traditional stone villages and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in Greece.

1. Vikos Gorge

Why Visit: One of the deepest gorges in the world, with breathtaking views in winter.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €60-€80 one way from Ioannina to Monodendri.
By Bus: Limited service available. Bus fare is around €5-€8 one way, but taxis may still be needed from bus stops.
Fuel (By Car): About €15-€20 (1-hour drive from Ioannina).
Car Rental: From €40-€60 per day.

2. Papigo (Mikro & Megalo Papigo)

Why Visit: Traditional villages with cozy atmosphere and access to mountain hikes.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €70-€90 one way (1.5-hour drive).
By Bus: Public bus service runs only once a day, costing around €7-€10 one way.
Fuel (By Car): Approx. €20-€25.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

3. Voidomatis River

Why Visit: One of Europe's cleanest rivers, ideal for winter walks and rafting.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: €50-€70 one way (45-minute drive from Ioannina).
By Bus: Bus service is infrequent, around €5-€7 one way.
Fuel (By Car): Approx. €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

4. Drakolimni (Dragon Lake)

Why Visit: Mystical alpine lake, requiring a 4-5 hour hike.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €80-€100 to Mikro Papigo (1.5 hours).
By Bus: Limited service, bus fare around €7-€10 one way.
Fuel (By Car): Approx. €20-€25.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

5. Monastery of Agia Paraskevi

Why Visit: 15th-century monastery with stunning views of Vikos Gorge.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €60-€80 one way.
By Bus: Limited bus routes to Monodendri, fare around €5-€8.
Fuel (By Car): Approx. €15-€20.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

6. Kokkori Bridge

Why Visit: Famous stone bridge with magical winter scenery.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €50-€70 one way (40 minutes from Ioannina).
By Bus: Limited service, fare around €5-€7.
Fuel (By Car): Approx. €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

7. Kipoi Village

Why Visit: Picturesque village known for its stone houses and bridges.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €50-€70 one way (45-minute drive).
By Bus: Fare around €5-€8 with limited service.
Fuel (By Car): Approx. €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

8. Oxya Viewpoint

Why Visit: Offers panoramic views of Vikos Gorge.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €70-€90 one way.
By Bus: Not easily accessible by bus; a taxi or rental car is recommended.
Fuel (By Car): Approx. €5-€10.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

9. Tsepelovo Village

Why Visit: One of the largest and most beautiful villages in Zagori.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €60-€80 one way (50-minute drive from Ioannina).
By Bus: Limited service available; fare around €5-€7.
Fuel (By Car): Approx. €15-€20.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

10. Rogovo Pools

Why Visit: Unique rock pools surrounded by nature.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €80-€100 one way (30-minute hike after reaching Papigo).
By Bus: Limited service to Papigo, fare around €7-€10.
Fuel (By Car): Approx. €20-€25.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

Travel Tips for Zagori:

Best Way to Get Around: Renting a car is highly recommended due to limited public transport. Car rentals in Ioannina cost around €40-€60 per day. Taxis are available but expensive for longer trips.
Fuel Costs: Fuel prices in Greece average around €1.80-€2.00 per liter. Depending on distance, fuel costs can range from €10 to €25 for most destinations from Ioannina.
With these transportation options, you can easily plan your visit to the Zagori region and explore its stunning winter landscapes. Make sure to check weather conditions in winter, as roads can be icy.

"Explore Alternative Destinations in Zagori: Hidden Gems for a Unique Greek Mountain Escape"

1. Dilofo Village

Why Visit: Quaint, car-free village with well-preserved stone mansions and traditional architecture.
How to Get There:
Taxi: Approx. €60-€80 one way from Ioannina.
Bus: Limited bus service, approx. €5-€8 one way.
Fuel: €10-15 for a round trip (1 hour total).
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

2. Vradeto Steps

Why Visit: Historic 1,200-step stone path with stunning mountain views.
How to Get There:
Taxi: €70-€90 one way from Ioannina to Kapesovo.
Bus: Approx. €7-€10 one way, but limited availability.
Fuel: €10-15 for a round trip.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

3. Beloi Viewpoint

Why Visit: Panoramic view of Vikos Gorge, a quieter alternative to Oxya.
How to Get There:
Taxi: €70-€90 one way.
Bus: Not easily accessible by bus; car or taxi is recommended.
Fuel: €10-15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

4. Koukouli Village

Why Visit: Traditional stone village, home to the Lazaridis Folklore Museum.
How to Get There:
Taxi: €50-€70.
Bus: Approx. €5-€8.
Fuel: €10-15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

5. Negades Village

Why Visit: Remote village known for its peaceful setting and historical church.
How to Get There:
Taxi: €80-€100.
Bus: Limited service, approx. €7-€10.
Fuel: €15-20.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

6. Riziana Waterfall

Why Visit: A hidden waterfall near Kipi, especially scenic in winter.
How to Get There:
Taxi: €60-€80.
Bus: Approx. €5-€8.
Fuel: €10-15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

7. Elafotopos Village

Why Visit: Quiet village surrounded by nature, perfect for hiking or relaxing.
How to Get There:
Taxi: €70-€90.
Bus: Approx. €7-€10.
Fuel: €10-15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

8. Kaloutas Village

Why Visit: Picturesque stone village, ideal for photography and peaceful walks.
How to Get There:
Taxi: €60-€80.
Bus: Approx. €7-€10.
Fuel: €10-15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

9. Kokkori & Lazaridi Bridge Walk

Why Visit: A peaceful walk between two beautiful stone bridges.
How to Get There:
Taxi: €50-€70.
Bus: Approx. €5-€8.
Fuel: €10-15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

10. Plakidas Bridge

Why Visit: Stunning multi-arch stone bridge, magical during winter.
How to Get There:
Taxi: €60-€80.
Bus: Approx. €5-€8.
Fuel: €10-15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

General Travel Tips:

Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for flexibility. Public transportation is limited, and some villages are remote.
Taxi Costs: Average €50-€100 depending on the distance from Ioannina.
Bus Costs: Approx. €5-€10, but services are infrequent.
Fuel Costs: Approx. €1.80-2.00 per liter. Most trips will require €10-20 for a round trip from Ioannina.
Car Rental: Expect to pay €40-60 per day for a rental car.
These prices and transportation options ensure that you can explore the beauty of Zagori with ease, especially during the winter months when the region is particularly magical!

"Where to Eat in Zagori: Top Restaurants for Authentic Greek Cuisine and Local Delicacies"

1. Kanela & Garyfallo (Cinnamon & Clove) – Monodendri

Type: Traditional Greek Tavern
Specialty: Wild mushroom pie, goat in lemon sauce
Why Visit: A cozy, family-run tavern known for serving traditional Epirus dishes made with local ingredients.
Price Range: €15-20 per person

2. Dias (Zeus) – Aristi

Type: Gourmet Greek
Specialty: Slow-cooked lamb, truffle risotto
Why Visit: Blending local flavors with a gourmet twist, Dias offers elegant dining in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Price Range: €25-35 per person

3. Thoukididis Tavern – Kapesovo

Type: Traditional Tavern
Specialty: Traditional pies (spanakopita, mushroom), grilled pork
Why Visit: A charming village tavern famous for its hand-made pies and locally sourced meats.
Price Range: €15-20 per person

4. En Aristi – Aristi

Type: Modern Greek Cuisine
Specialty: Venison stew, grilled trout
Why Visit: Located in the boutique Aristi Mountain Resort, this restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Greek dishes.
Price Range: €30-40 per person

5. Taverna Koukounari – Mikro Papigo

Type: Traditional Mountain Tavern
Specialty: Roasted goat, feta with honey
Why Visit: Enjoy stunning mountain views and hearty Zagori cuisine in a rustic setting.
Price Range: €20-25 per person

6. Astra Inn – Papigo

Type: Gourmet
Specialty: Duck with orange sauce, slow-cooked beef
Why Visit: Astra Inn combines modern, gourmet cuisine with local products, offering an upscale dining experience in a traditional mountain village.
Price Range: €30-35 per person

7. Orestis – Vitsa

Type: Traditional Tavern
Specialty: Veal in tomato sauce, handmade noodles
Why Visit: Located in a quaint stone village, Orestis is famous for its home-cooked dishes and warm hospitality.
Price Range: €15-20 per person

8. Pita Tis Kikitsas – Vitsa

Type: Traditional Greek Tavern
Specialty: Zagori pies (spanakopita, cheese pies), lamb stew
Why Visit: Specializing in traditional Zagori pies, this family-run tavern serves some of the best local flavors in the region.
Price Range: €15-20 per person

9. Margarites – Vitsa

Type: Gourmet & Traditional Fusion
Specialty: Wild boar, locally foraged mushrooms
Why Visit: Margarites offers a mix of traditional and gourmet dishes, using local ingredients with a focus on quality.
Price Range: €25-30 per person

10. Monodendri Restaurant – Monodendri

Type: Traditional
Specialty: Roast lamb, local cheeses
Why Visit: A popular spot for both locals and visitors, this restaurant offers authentic local dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Price Range: €15-20 per person

"Staying in Zagori: Best Hotels, Boutique Accommodations, and Cozy Guesthouses for Your Greek Mountain Getaway"

1. Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas (Aristi)

Rating: 9.4/10
Why Visit: Luxurious with mountain views, spa, and infinity pool.
Price: From €120-€180 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €50-€70 from Ioannina (50-minute drive).
By Bus: Approx. €7-€10 one way (limited services available).
Fuel (By Car): Around €10-€15 for a round trip from Ioannina.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

2. Gamila Rocks Mountain Hotel (Aristi)

Rating: 9.7/10
Why Visit: Great for nature lovers with modern amenities.
Price: From €85-€100 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €50-€70.
By Bus: €7-€10 one way.
Fuel: €10-€15 for a round trip.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

3. Papaevangelou Hotel (Papingo)

Rating: 9.8/10
Why Visit: Stone-built hotel with stunning mountain views.
Price: From €110-€150 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €70-€90 one way (1.5 hours from Ioannina).
By Bus: Limited services available, approx. €10-€15 one way.
Fuel: €15-€20 for a round trip.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

4. Primoula Country Hotel & Spa (Ano Pedina)

Rating: 9.5/10
Why Visit: Perfect for wellness and relaxation with a spa and panoramic views.
Price: From €90-€130 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €40-€60 from Ioannina (45-minute drive).
By Bus: Approx. €5-€7 one way.
Fuel: €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

5. Aberratio Boutique Hotel (Aristi)

Rating: 9.6/10
Why Visit: Cozy boutique hotel with a mix of modern and traditional design.
Price: From €100-€140 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €50-€70.
By Bus: Approx. €7-€10.
Fuel: €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

6. Aithrio Hotel (Dilofo)

Rating: 10/10
Why Visit: Known for its exceptional service in the car-free village of Dilofo.
Price: From €70-€90 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €40-€60 from Ioannina, with a walk to the village from parking.
By Bus: Approx. €5-€7.
Fuel: €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

7. Kipi Mountain Resort (Kipoi)

Rating: 9.5/10
Why Visit: A quiet retreat with gourmet dining and outdoor activities.
Price: From €130-€170 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €40-€60 (45 minutes).
By Bus: €5-€7 one way.
Fuel: €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

8. Archontiko Zarkada (Monodendri)

Rating: 9.0/10
Why Visit: Traditional architecture close to Vikos Gorge.
Price: From €60-€80 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €40-€60.
By Bus: Approx. €5-€7.
Fuel: €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

9. Pirrion Wellness Boutique Hotel (Ano Pedina)

Rating: 9.5/10
Why Visit: Luxurious boutique hotel with a wellness spa.
Price: From €110-€150 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €40-€60.
By Bus: Approx. €5-€7.
Fuel: €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

10. Hotel Athina (Elati)

Rating: 9.1/10
Why Visit: Traditional charm with modern comforts, ideal for exploring nearby forests.
Price: From €70-€100 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €50-€70.
By Bus: Limited services, approx. €7-€10.
Fuel: €15-€20.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

Transportation Cost Summary:

Taxi Costs: Range from €40-€100 depending on distance from Ioannina.
Bus Costs: Typically €5-€10 one way, though services can be limited.
Fuel Costs: Range from €10-€20 for a round trip.
Car Rental: Prices typically range from €40-€60 per day, making it a flexible and cost-effective option for exploring the region.
These transportation details will help you plan your stay at these top-rated hotels in Zagori and ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.

"Top Airbnb Stays in Zagori: Experience Luxury, Nature, and Tradition in Greece's Mountain Retreat"

1. Zagori Traditional House with Jacuzzi & Amazing View (Demati)

Why Stay: Rustic yet luxurious chalet with breathtaking mountain views and a Jacuzzi for relaxation.
Price: From €115 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €70-€90 one way from Ioannina (1-hour drive).
By Bus: Limited bus service; costs around €10 but is less convenient for this location.
Fuel (By Car): €10-€15 round trip.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

2. Villa Zagori - The Red House (Ioannina)

Why Stay: Spacious villa with a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics, perfect for families.
Price: From €278 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €30-€40 from Ioannina.
By Bus: Limited bus options, costing around €5-€7.
Fuel: €5-€10 round trip.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

3. Papigo Villas - Silene (Papigo)

Why Stay: Traditional stone villa with modern amenities and mountain views.
Price: From €210 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €80-€100 one way (1.5-hour drive from Ioannina).
By Bus: Limited services; bus fare around €10-€15.
Fuel: €15-€20 round trip.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

4. Timfaia Chalet (Central Zagori)

Why Stay: Luxurious chalet with scenic mountain views, perfect for family retreats.
Price: From €249 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €70-€90.
By Bus: Limited service, around €7-€10 one way.
Fuel: €10-€15 round trip.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

5. Papigo Villas - Ramonda (Papigo)

Why Stay: Traditional stone villa located in scenic Papigo, close to hiking trails.
Price: From €215 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €80-€100 one way (1.5 hours from Ioannina).
By Bus: Limited service; bus fare around €10-€15.
Fuel: €15-€20.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

6. Traditional Zagori Mountain Villa (Ioannina)

Why Stay: Authentic mountain villa combining traditional architecture with modern comforts.
Price: From €130 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €30-€40 from Ioannina.
By Bus: Bus fare around €5-€7.
Fuel: €5-€10.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

7. Vradeto Guesthouse (Vradeto)

Why Stay: Traditional stone guesthouse in the highest village of Zagori, ideal for hikers.
Price: From €136 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €80-€100 one way (1.5-hour drive from Ioannina).
By Bus: Limited service available, fare around €10-€15.
Fuel: €15-€20.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

8. Beyond Country - The Land Beyond (Ano Pedina)

Why Stay: Luxurious villa offering panoramic views, great for large groups.
Price: From €546 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €60-€80 one way (1-hour drive).
By Bus: Approx. €7-€10.
Fuel: €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

9. Stone House in Laista (Laista)

Why Stay: Charming stone house, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Price: From €76 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €80-€100 one way (1 hour and 15 minutes from Ioannina).
By Bus: Limited services available; bus fare around €10-€15.
Fuel: €15-€20.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

10. Cozy 2-Storey Traditional House (Central Zagori)

Why Stay: Affordable traditional home with rustic charm, great for exploring nature.
Price: From €82 per night.
How to Get There:
By Taxi: Approx. €60-€80 one way (1-hour drive from Ioannina).
By Bus: Approx. €7-€10.
Fuel: €10-€15.
Car Rental: €40-€60 per day.

Transportation Summary:

Taxi Costs: Range from €30-€100 depending on distance from Ioannina.
Bus Costs: Typically €5-€15 depending on the location, but services can be limited.
Fuel Costs: Range from €5-€20 for round trips.
Car Rental: Costs €40-€60 per day, offering flexibility for exploring the area.
These Airbnb and villa options provide a great mix of traditional charm, modern luxury, and stunning natural surroundings, making your stay in Zagori a unique and memorable experience!

how to get there

1. From Athens to Zagori

By Car:
- Distance: Approximately 450 km (about 5-6 hours).
- Route: Follow the E65 highway to Lamia, then take the Egnatia Odos (A2) to Ioannina. From Ioannina, follow signs towards the Zagori region.
- Toll Costs: Approximately €35 for tolls (one way).
- Fuel Costs: Around €60-70 depending on fuel consumption.
- Tip: Consider renting a car, as it's the most flexible way to explore the different villages in Zagori. Make sure the car is prepared for mountain driving, especially in winter.
By Bus:
- Route: Take a KTEL bus from Athens to Ioannina. Buses run regularly.
- Price: About €35-45 for a one-way ticket.
- Duration: 6-7 hours.
- From Ioannina: You will need to rent a car or take a taxi to the Zagori region (approx. 30-60 minutes depending on the village).
By Plane:
- Flight: Fly from Athens to Ioannina Airport (50-minute flight).
- Price: Flight prices range from €60-€120 depending on the season.
- From Ioannina: You can take a taxi or rent a car to drive into the Zagori villages (around 1 hour).

2. From Thessaloniki to Zagori

By Car:
- Distance: About 260 km (3-4 hours).
- Route: Take the Egnatia Odos (A2) towards Ioannina, then follow signs for the Zagori region.
- Toll Costs: Around €15 for tolls.
- Fuel Costs: About €40-50.
- Tip: This is one of the most straightforward and scenic routes to Zagori. Ensure you have a map or GPS, as some smaller roads may not be well-marked.
By Bus:
- Route: KTEL buses from Thessaloniki to Ioannina operate several times daily.
- Price: €25-30 for a one-way ticket.
- Duration: 4-5 hours.
- From Ioannina: Rent a car or take a taxi to reach the Zagori villages.

3. From Patras to Zagori

By Car:
- Distance: Approximately 200 km (about 3 hours).
- Route: Follow the E65 to Ioannina, and then take the road towards Zagori.
- Toll Costs: Around €20 for tolls.
- Fuel Costs: About €30-40.
- Tip: This is a quick and scenic drive. Make sure to refuel before entering the more remote areas, as gas stations can be sparse in the mountains.
By Bus:
- Route: There is no direct bus route from Patras to Ioannina, so you would first need to take a KTEL bus to Athens and then transfer to a bus or car towards Ioannina.
- Price: Approx. €45-50 combined.
- Duration: Around 7-8 hours total (including transfers).

4. From Corfu to Zagori

By Ferry & Car:
- Route: Take a ferry from Corfu to Igoumenitsa, then drive to Ioannina and on to Zagori.
- Ferry Price: About €10-€15 per person (car tickets are around €30-€50).
- Drive from Igoumenitsa: It's about 1.5-2 hours from Igoumenitsa to Zagori by car (around 120 km).
- Tip: The drive from Igoumenitsa to Ioannina is very scenic and passes through the Pindus mountains.

Travel Tips:

Best Season: Summer and early autumn offer ideal weather for outdoor activities like hiking, but winter provides a magical snow-covered landscape perfect for a quieter retreat.
Navigation: Having a GPS is crucial as roads in the mountainous areas of Zagori can be narrow and winding.
Car Rentals: Renting a car from Ioannina or nearby cities is the most convenient option for exploring the different villages in Zagori.

By planning ahead, you can enjoy the scenic landscapes and authentic charm of this unique region in Greece.