Epirus is a historical and geographical region in northwestern Greece, bordered by the Pindus Mountains to the east and the Ionian Sea to the west. It’s known for its dramatic mountain scenery, traditional villages, ancient ruins, and uncrowded beaches.
🏙️ Top Cities & Villages
1. Ioannina (Capital)
- What to See:
- Lake Pamvotida & Island – Take a boat ride to the islet with quaint monasteries.
- Ioannina Castle – One of the oldest Byzantine castles in Greece.
- Silversmithing Museum – Showcasing the region’s artisanal heritage.
- Vibe: Cultural and historic, with a university-town energy.
2. Zagori Villages
- A cluster of 46 traditional stone villages in the Pindus Mountains.
- Must-visit villages: Papigo, Monodendri, Vitsa, and Tsepelovo.
- Highlights:
- Vikos Gorge – One of the world’s deepest canyons.
- Arched Stone Bridges – 18th-century marvels scattered across the area.
- Hiking Trails – Part of the Vikos–Aoös National Park.
3. Metsovo
- A mountain town with alpine charm.
- What to Do:
- Taste local cheeses like Metsovone.
- Visit the Averoff Gallery and traditional mansions.
- Go skiing in winter or hiking in summer.
🌊 Coastal Escapes
1. Parga
- Scenic coastal town with colorful houses, a Venetian castle, and crystal-clear beaches.
- Best Beaches: Valtos, Lichnos, Sarakiniko.
- Great for boat trips, sea kayaking, and snorkeling.
2. Sivota
- Cluster of islets and coves, ideal for sailing and diving.
- Blue Lagoon is a highlight with turquoise waters.
🏛️ Historical Sites
- Dodona Oracle – Second only to Delphi in antiquity, this ancient sanctuary was home to Zeus’s oracle.
- Nikopolis – A Roman city founded by Augustus after the Battle of Actium.
- Necromanteion of Acheron – Ancient temple of necromancy, believed to be an entrance to the Underworld.
🏞️ Outdoor Activities
- Hiking: Vikos Gorge, Tymfi Dragon Lake, Aoös River Valley.
- Rafting/Kayaking: Voidomatis River – crystal-clear and beginner-friendly.
- Skiing: Anilio and Metsovo ski centers.
- Caving: Perama Cave near Ioannina – with impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
🍽️ Local Cuisine
- Pies (Pites): With fillings like cheese, herbs, mushrooms, or meat.
- Graviera & Metsovone cheeses
- Wild boar & lamb stews
- Baklava with local honey
- Tsipouro: A local spirit, often home-distilled.
🛌 Where to Stay
- Ioannina: Boutique hotels near the lake.
- Zagori: Stone guesthouses (archontika) with fireplaces and traditional breakfast.
- Parga & Sivota: Seafront hotels and villas with stunning views.
📅 Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–June): Lush landscapes, ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
- Summer (July–August): Best for beach time but can be warm inland.
- Fall (September–October): Beautiful foliage, fewer tourists.
- Winter (December–March): Ski season in Metsovo; cozy vibes in mountain villages.
✈️ Getting There
- By Plane: Ioannina National Airport (IOA) or Aktion Airport (near Preveza).
- By Car: Epirus is accessible via the Egnatia Odos highway from Thessaloniki or via the Ionian Road from Athens.
- Public Transport: Buses connect major towns, but a rental car is ideal for exploring remote villages and mountain areas.
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