Classical Zagori trek
Once you will get to the “hidden” region of Zagori, you will discover a breathtaking landscape with beautiful, mountain villages, old stone-made trails, crystal- clear rivers, and limestone peaks. Delicious food and warm hospitality complete the “puzzle” of the “land behind the mountains.
Day 1: Arrival – Monodendri
Arrival at Ioannina airport and direct transportation to Monodendri village, in the heart of the region. In the evening we meet with our guide for briefing and welcome dinner.
Day 2: Monodendri – Vikos Gorge – Aristi village
We follow the signposted path near the open – air theatre at the top of the trail. From there the path drops steeply to the Voidomatis river. It continues through the woods in a charming footpath which parallels the river. We exit at Vikos village, where our transportation waits to drive us to Aristi village for overnight stay.
Day 3: Aristi Bridge – Klidonia Bridge – Mikro Papingo
After a short morning ride from our hotel, we start our walk at the heart of the Aoos National Park, under the bridge of Aristi. We walk by the bank of Voidomatis River and we continue through woods. On our way we have the opportunity to admire the rare varieties of wild birds and flowers of the area. The walk ends at Klidonia Bridge. Transportation to Mikro Papingo village where we stay for the night.
Day 4: Mikro Papingo – Dragon Lake – Astraka Refuge
We start our hike early in the morning, following an uphill path to the Astraka refuge. We continue to the grassy uplands studded with flowers and at some points we often meet pack snow, very often until July. After about 1, 5 hour we reach the lake. We return to the refuge from the same path.
Day 5: Astraka refuge – Tsepelovo
After our authentic mountain experience of the previous day, today we follow picturesque trails in the shadow of the peak of Mount Astraka. We descend from the higher mountains, among endless grass fields, we meet sheep folds on our way and finally we reach Tsepelovo, the village of the woodcutters. Dinner and overnight stay in local hotel.
Day 6: Tsepelovo – Kipi
Today starts the second part of our journey to the most beautiful places of the area. We follow a clear downhill path. Soon we cross the impressive stone-made bridge of Hatsiou, dating back to 1750. We continue among fields and shades, and we end up to Kipi for overnight stay.
Day 7: Kipi – Koukouli – Dilofo – Kipi
Today we continue our exploration of the “lower” land of Zagori. We climb the Koukouli rock steps, or else the “skala” (as the locals prefer to call it). After about an hour of walking under the shades we reach the village of Koukouli. We continue for a while on the asphalt road and soon we enter to a different path which leads us to the traditional village of Dilofo. We return from a different path to Kipi.
Day 8: Departure day
Morning transportation to Ioannina. End of trip.
Useful info
- The trip starts and ends at Ioannina airport. Please note that different transportation arrangements can be made under request.
- All local transportations and luggage transfers are included in the rate
- Accommodations in local hotels, breakfast included, 1 night at Astraka refuge (dormitory style)
- 6 picnic lunches and 7 dinners are provided (drinks and beverages are not included)
- Difficulty rate: C
- Travel insurance is not included in the package
- Professional trekking leader’s services