Greece Hiking Tour, 7 Days: Vikos Gorge, Vradeto & Tzoumerka

Are you ready to explore the culture, the gastronomy, the traditions of Epirus and live like a local for a few hours? Then this delicious walking tour is the perfect choice for you! Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional flavors, local wines, and tsipouro and explore the alleys of the city and the Island of Ioannina. Get ready for unique flavors and intense aromas!

In our 4-hour tour, you will have the opportunity to discover the local Epirus food, tsipouro, and wine made by local producers and learn the history of Ioannina, having a friendly chat with locals.

Inclusions

• 4.5-hour private tour
• Hotel pick up and drop off (Vehicle)
• English speaking Guide / Driver
• Behind-the-scenes access at some of the venues
• Samplings of local food and drink
• Tsipouro tasting
• Wine tasting
• Umbrellas for rainy weather
• Bottled water

Every traveler should put hiking through Zagori’s Vikos Gorge on their bucket list since it’s an incredible experience. It provides an absolutely breathtaking vista that will astound you, making it one of the most beautiful gorges in all of Europe. The Guinness Book of World Records lists the Vikos Gorge, which is a 12,600-hectare stretch of the Vikos-Aoos National Park, as the deepest canyon in the world relative to its breadth.

The 20-kilometer gorge is ideal for a strenuous and thrilling trip because of its remarkably varied environment, which is marked by sudden variations in altitude. For millions of years, the Voidomatis River, a branch of the Aoos River, has been chiseling away at the gorge, dividing the mountain in two and forming sharp, 1700-meter-tall vertical cliffs. A window into the region’s ancient geological past is provided by the 150 million-year-old limestone and dolomite rock formations that are exposed on the gorge’s slopes.

Inclusions

• 7-hour private experience
• Hotel pick up and drop off (Vehicle)
• Experienced local guide
• Hiking poles
• Greek traditional picnic lunch
• Waterproof poncho jacket

Participation requirements

• 12 y.o. and above
• Basic physical condition
• Lack of acrophobia
• Previous experience in long hikes
• Distance: 12,5 km‎
• Elevation gain: 825 m ‎
• Terrain:‎ Cobblestone path, footpath

Syrrako and Kalarrites, the ‘twin nobly villages’ of Tzoumerka, are undoubtedly the most impressive villages in the area. Syrrako, built at 1.150m on the slope of Lakmos Mountain, seems to hang over the impressive gorge of the Chrousia river. On the other hand, Kalarrites, built precisely opposite, on the slope of Poulania at 1200m, look at the great view of the peaks. Even if the villages seem to be near each other, they’re separated by the steep gorge of Kalarritikos River. These historical villages keep traditional architecture unchanged with stone houses and roofs made of slate.

The Kalarrites – Syrrako Hike follows a well-maintained path leading us to the gorge’s depth, from where we ascend towards Syrrako. We can admire and marvel at the area’s biodiversity in this beautiful natural environment. In a place hidden from the sun, in the Canyon of Chrousia, we’ll walk in the footsteps of ancient Selloi and learn about the commercial routes of their caravans, the roads leading them both to the eastern and western world, where they sold fragrant tobacco and the unique woven textiles of Syrrako and Kalarrites.

Inclusions

• 6-hour private experience
• Hotel pick up and drop off (Vehicle)
• Experienced local guide
• Hiking poles
• Snacks (seasonal fruits, cereal bars)
• Waterproof poncho jacket

Participation requirements

• 10 years and above
• Basic physical condition
• Meeting point: Kouiassa Waterfall entrance, Kalarrites, Tzoumerka
• Distance: 7 km‎
• Elevation gain: 102 m ‎
• Terrain:‎ footpath

Prepare for an unforgettable hike! We’ll guide you to the highest-built village in Zagori, Vradeto, perched at an impressive 1,350 meters. Our path ascends the historic stone steps that once served as the only connection between Vradeto and the outside world. With 1,200 stairs and 39 turns, these steps will lead us to the charming village of Kapesovo, offering stunning views along the way.

During the hike, we’ll stop at the Beloi viewpoint, a natural stone balcony that provides breathtaking vistas of the Vikos canyon. Once we reach Vradeto, we’ll take a well-earned break in the central square to enjoy a refreshing drink.

This hike is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers looking to experience the beauty of Zagori!

Inclusions

• 6-hour shared experience (max 20 pax)
• Services of an English-speaking certified guide
• Picnic lunch
• Hiking poles
• Waterproof poncho jacket for the rainy days
•  Personal first aid box

Participation requirements

• Good physical condition
• Lack of acrophobia
• Previous experience in long hikes
  

What to bring with you

• Hiking boots
• Breathable and quick-drying sports clothes
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Suncreen (for summer months)
• Beanie (for winter months)
• Backpack 20-30L
• Bottle of water

Ioannina, with its picturesque setting by Lake Pamvotida and rich historical heritage, offers a charming and romantic atmosphere for couples. Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the lake’s promenade, where you can admire the tranquil waters and take a romantic boat ride to Nisi (the island on the lake), which is home to monasteries and historical sites. Explore the Ioannina Castle, one of the oldest Byzantine fortifications in Greece, where the quiet cobbled streets, ancient walls, and stunning views of the lake create the perfect backdrop for a romantic walk. Don’t miss a visit to the Ali Pasha Museum on the island, where you can delve into the region’s fascinating Ottoman history. End your day with a candlelit dinner at a lakeside taverna, enjoying the peaceful ambiance and stunning views of the illuminated castle. Ioannina’s mix of natural beauty and history provides a perfect escape for couples.

Today, you will bid farewell to beautiful Greece. However, the places you visited, the people you met, and the exciting experiences you had will always accompany you and have a special place in your heart!

As you reminisce about the fond memories while looking at the photographs you took and the souvenirs you are bringing with you, get ready to share all about your trip with your loved ones back home.

After arriving at the Athens International Airport, check in to your international flight and depart Greece. Your trip might have come to an end for now, but the magical flame of adventure and travel is always ready to re-ignite!