5 Reasons why you should visit Zagorochoria

In ancient Greek, Zagori was called Parorea, which means beyond the mountains. And yes, it really lives up to the name. Once you’re in Zagori, you really are surrounded by mountains, and the scenery is spectacular! The unspoiled nature, the relaxed ambience, and the mesmerizing views make you forget about the world.

And then, you visit one by one these amazingly picturesque villages, and it’s like you’ve stepped into a different world entirely. The stone houses blend into their surroundings and the cobbled paths invite you to explore every little corner! This brings me to the next reason.

Architecture in Zagorochoria is a unique combination of cultural and natural heritage. It was defined by the harsh climate, the mountainous and rugged landscape, the difficult conditions (people often had to defend themselves from invaders), and the local materials. Traditional houses, made of stone and wood, are in perfect harmony with their surroundings. Most villages are built in an amphitheatrical way, embracing the shape and the hills of the mountain; often, a plateau with a church in the centre of the village.

Staying in a stone house is an experience in itself. Whether you stay in a hotel or a cosy traditional guest house, you’ll get an authentic taste of mountain culture and the famous Greek hospitality.

Some of the most popular villages are: Aristi, Vitsa, Ano Pedina, Megalo Papingo (or Papigo), Mikro Papingo, Monodendri, Kipi, Dilofo, Kapesovo, Vikos, and Tsepelovo. Find out more here.

Some of the most popular villages are: Aristi, Vitsa, Ano Pedina, Megalo Papingo (or Papigo), Mikro Papingo, Monodendri, Kipi, Dilofo, Kapesovo, Vikos, and Tsepelovo. Find out more here.

Ok, this reason might sound too specific, but honestly the Stone Bridges of Zagori are absolutely amazing! First of all, there are so many of them. As you drive around the area, it’s like a surprise at every turn. There are about 80 bridges but used to be way more.

Secondly, they are a fascinating, living part of Greek history. The rocky and mountainous landscape and the great number of rivers and streams made the area very difficult to approach. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the locals, wanting to connect the various villages and to improve the trading routes, built an impressive network of stone-paved paths and arched bridges. Naturally, the best way to explore this network is by hiking.

Epirus is a hiking paradise and Zagori is no exception! Go for a relaxing mushroom hike or learn about the interesting tradition of medicinal plants in Zagori. Hike the Vradeto Steps and walk on an iconic 18th-century zigzag mule track, and explore the Papingo Rock Pools (known as Ovires in the Rogovo stream). There’s really something for every person and taste and mood.

Nevertheless, there’s one thing that’s a must-see for everybody, and that is of course Vikos Gorge. It’s one of the most popular gorges in Greece and famous for its breathtaking views and majestic nature. Deep in the Pindus Mountains, Vikos Gorge lies in the heart of the Vikos–Aoös National Park, a UNESCO Geopark rich in fauna and flora diversity.

At the bottom of the Gorge runs Voidomatis, a tributary of the Aoös river, and one of the cleanest rivers in Europe. The most popular hike is crossing the Gorge (moderate difficulty, 6-7-hour hike, about 12km) starting at Monodendri village and ending at Vikos; there are, however, more options and many longer or shorter hikes you can try.

If there’s one thing that can rival the beautiful nature of Zagorochoria that is the local cuisine. Because the villages were so remote, the dishes are all about self-sufficiency. The centuries-old nomadic-shepherds’ culture resulted in recipes based on locally sourced ingredients. Additionally, every family had their own cooking secrets, which were passed down for many generations, making Zagori cuisine very rich and diverse. There are more than 160 different recipes for Epirus pies alone!

Pies are for sure the most characteristic part of the local food culture, but there are so many more dishes and treats you should try! From cornbread, mushrooms, and mountain asparagus, to cooked meat (especially lamb and goat), hilopites (type of egg pasta), and of course MANY types of cheese. Do you want to take a piece of local delights back home? Many shops sell a variety of wild herbs, honey, marmalades, sweet liqueurs, and more!

Before you go, sit back at a kafeneio with a cup of hot coffee or a cold Stala Beer, while you enjoy the brisk forest air of the mountains.