Epirus Region, Greece

Choosing where to travel in Greece can be quite a challenge. Epirus is an area that combines beautifully all 4 seasons, natural marvels, rich history and delicious food. On this series of stories, I will attempt to give you a few good reasons to visit one of my favorite regions in Greece!

EPIRUS - SEE

This region’s natural beauties must be at the top of your “to see” list. Whether you are a summer or a winter person, Epirus has got it all covered for you: Syvota and Parga, two of the most popular summer destinations are just too beautiful to believe. Syvota is a complex of small green islands, often called the “Greek Fjords”, perfect for sailing around and exploring hidden beaches.

The crystal clear, inviting waters of Syvota

Parga, with its pretty walkway next to the sea has some of the cutest and most colourful alleys, shops and tavernas. Best to visit around May or June when the weather has gotten warm enough to bathe in the sea and the bougainvillea flowers are in full bloom!

Splash! Welcome to colorful Parga

If you decide to visit the mountainous side of Epirus, driving along the Pindos mountains will have you stop every now and then to take photos and just enjoy the views. What do I mean? A palette full of autumn colours around you, snowed mountain peaks, the famous 64 Zagorochoria villages with their iconic rocky bridges, the crystal clear and clean waters of Aoos and Voidomatis rivers, the picturesque town of Metsovo and, of course, the deepest Gorge in the world, Vikos Gorge.

I mean, imagine waking up to this every morning. Kipi Village, Zagorochoria

The super clear waters of Voidomatis river, famous for sports such as rafting

EPIRUS - EAT

Epirus is famous for its variety in food: being an area with both sea and mountains, it combines several climates at the same time, which largely influences the food. Near the seaside, you will have the chance to enjoy fresh fish, octopus and squid and as you go further up the mountains, the menu changes to more “mountainous” food: a variety of cheese, meat, local dairy products, as well as mountain herbs and greens. I would especially recommend the local pasta in Metsovo (resembles the noodles) with melted local cheese on top. Yum! Try for just 6€ at “Koutouki tou Nikola” taverna in the heart of Metsovo.

Melted local cheese on top of local pasta. Enough said

Apart from the above dish, I would also recommend trying the local meat. I had one of the best beef dishes in a while in Papingo village, in the heart of the Zagorochoria. Served again with local noodles-looking pasta called “Chilopites” and tomato sauce!

The definition of “yum”

EPIRUS - DO

As mentioned above, Epirus is the land of variety. So many places to see, so many things to do, so many stories and experiences to be had. During wintertime, the snowy landscape will leave you in awe: head for Anilio Ski Resort and hit those slopes. If you are visiting in spring and enjoy a little andrenaline rush, you are in luck. The snow melting from the mountains creates strong currents in the rivers, therefore making them suitable for rafting. Spring is also the best time for hiking and the people of Epirus know that too well - don’t pass on hiking the famous Ursa Trail, where you will possibly encounter bears along the way.

Rafting in Voidomatis river, near Aristi village, Zagorochoria

In Summer, make sure you visit the Springs of Acheron river, from where it was believed in the ancient times that Hades, King of the Underworld and brother of Zeus and Poseidon, took his way to the Underworld. Last but not least, Fall is a season not to be missed in Epirus, where nature puts on its most spectacular colours. Don't miss the Chestnut festival in Metsovo in October!

The valleys of Epirus dressed in gorgeous Autumn colors

EPIRUS - STAY

While you have plenty of options as to where to stay during your visit to Epirus, I will recommend you my two favourite ones. Both are located in the heart of Metsovo, a town so close to many interest spots and full of tradition. Did I mention that many locals speak a dialect different from Greek, preserved for hundreds of years? There’s your fun fact of the day.

The first hotel is called Katogi Averoff, a guesthouse with local architecture, style and decoration and its own winery. The Averoff Wines brand happens to be one of the most prestigious wine brands in Greece and that is because the wineries are the highest in elevation in the whole country (around 1,200m above sea level). In fact, until a few years ago, wild brown bears used to trespass the vineyards and consume around 25% of the grapes. The company’s motto became the “wine approved by the bears”!

Outside Katogi Averoff Guesthouse

Not far from the above and near the central square is Kassaros Hotel. The Kassaros family knows very well how Epirus and hospitality go hand to hand. Prepare for the cosiest rooms and indoor sitting spaces you have ever seen. Pro tip: the breakfast consists mostly of homemade, local delicacies prepared right in front of your very eyes. Make sure you go hard on it!

My cosy room in Kassaros Hotel. Good morning, Metsovo!