Thessaloniki to Zagorohoria – Private Day Trip

Vikos Gorge: the kingdom of the river and the eagles A unique geological phenomenon: a schism in the earth that could have only been created by a divine hand. The narrowest section of the two sides is just 1,100m wide and its depths reach 900m. The Vikos Gorge is the realm of eagles, of rare medicinal herbs and steep vertical rocks. It begins from the bridge of Kokoros and ends at the bridge of Aristi. Passing through it is an experience of a lifetime.

Megalo Papingo and Mikro Papingo: famous winter brothers. Nightime. Your footsteps echo in the cobblestone streets, the moonlight bathes Mt Astrakas, rising high above Megalo and Mikro Papingo. The light in the windows of the guest houses warms the cold darkness. The smell of burnt wood from the fireplace awakens childhood memories. You’re already dreaming of enchanting evenings in your stone villa, with its fireplace, flokati rug and comfortable bed.

The majestic "towers" of Astrakas. The most magnificent mountain in the North Pindus range is Timfi. One of its peaks is Astrakas, with an altitude of 2,436m. South of the peak are huge horizontal rock formations, the famous "towers", linking it with the Vikos Gorge. Only "awe" can describe the feeling as you look up at Astrakas, especially during winter when snow decorates its slopes.

Drakolimni – a lake attraction. This alpine lake is stunningly beautiful. A mythical dragon lurks in its depths, perhaps a distant cousin of Scotland’s Loch Ness beastie! Sightings are limited these days, but don’t despair, there are many real drakakia (small dragons) that are actually microscopic amphibians called alpine newts. It’s perhaps the only trace we have of the Ice Age. To reach the lake, allow for 2-5 hours of hiking from Mikro Papingo.

Ovires: natural water sculptures Right next to the road that connects Megalo and Mikro Papingo, stop to see the "Ovires". They look like small lakes and have blue water and rocks carved by powerful running streams. If you go during summer, you’ll be able to take a swim.