Zagori Region, Pindos, Greece 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Bus from Portoheli to Athens

Begin your journey with a bus trip from Portoheli to Athens Kifissos Bus Station.

Bus from Athens to Ioannina

Connect to a long-distance bus from Athens to Ioannina, the gateway city to Pindos.

Transfer to Lodge in Zagori

Upon arrival in Ioannina, take a pre-booked taxi or arrange a transfer to your traditional mountain lodge in the Zagori region.

It's highly recommended to arrange this transfer in advance, especially considering your late arrival and the mountainous terrain in winter.

Check-in & Welcome Dinner

Check into your rustic mountain lodge.

Enjoy a warm welcome and a traditional Greek dinner, settling in by the cozy fireplace.

Inform the lodge about your estimated arrival time for a smooth check-in.

Breakfast at the Lodge

Start your day with a traditional Greek breakfast at your guesthouse.

Explore Monodendri Village

Discover Monodendri, one of the most picturesque Zagori villages, known for its stone mansions and access to the Vikos Gorge.

Vikos Gorge View from Oxia

Walk to the Oxia viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on potentially icy paths. Be mindful of railings and safety warnings. This is part of the Pindos National Park.

Lunch in Monodendri

Enjoy a traditional Zagorian lunch at a local taverna in Monodendri, trying local specialties like 'pites' (pies).

Agia Paraskevi Monastery

Visit the 15th-century Agia Paraskevi Monastery, precariously perched on the edge of the Vikos Gorge, offering incredible views.

Respect the monastery's dress code (shoulders and knees covered).

Relaxation & Dinner at Lodge

Return to your lodge for some relaxation by the fireplace before enjoying another traditional dinner.

Breakfast at the Lodge

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore more of Zagori.

Explore Kipi & Stone Bridges

Visit the village of Kipi, famous for its numerous elegant stone arched bridges, such as the Kokkori (Noutsou) Bridge and the Kalogeriko (Plakidas) Bridge.

Enjoy photography amidst these architectural marvels.

Visit Dilofo Village

Discover Dilofo, one of the best-preserved and most beautiful Zagori villages, offering stunning views and traditional architecture.

Take a leisurely stroll through its cobblestone alleys.

Lunch in Dilofo

Savor a delicious lunch in a traditional taverna in Dilofo, enjoying the serene atmosphere of the village.

New Year's Eve Celebration

Enjoy a special New Year's Eve dinner at your lodge or a local restaurant, complete with local delicacies and a festive atmosphere.

Ring in the New Year by the fireplace with mountain views.

Make dinner reservations in advance for New Year's Eve, as places can book up quickly. Confirm if your lodge offers a special menu.

Relaxed New Year's Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your lodge to start the New Year on a relaxed note.

Stroll around Vovousa

Take a gentle walk around your base village of Vovousa, enjoying its traditional architecture and the peaceful mountain surroundings.

Admire the old stone bridge.

Depending on snow conditions, paths might be slippery. Dress warmly.

Lodge Relaxation & Fireplace

Spend a cozy afternoon relaxing by the fireplace at your lodge, reading a book, or simply enjoying the tranquil mountain views.

This aligns with your desire for relaxation and a cozy fireplace.

Afternoon Coffee/Tea

Enjoy a warm coffee or local herbal tea at the lodge or a nearby traditional cafe.

New Year's Day Dinner

Enjoy a delightful dinner at the guesthouse, savoring more of the local cuisine.

Breakfast at the Lodge

Enjoy your last breakfast in the scenic surroundings of your Pindos lodge.

Winter Landscape Photography

Embark on a scenic walk near Vovousa, focusing on capturing the stunning winter landscapes and traditional architecture of the region.

Look for reflections, snow-dusted trees, and unique stone details.

Wear warm clothing and good walking shoes. Bring your camera!

Local Lunch

Have lunch at a local taverna, perhaps trying a dish you haven't had yet, or revisiting a favorite.

Free Afternoon & Souvenirs

Enjoy a free afternoon to relax at the lodge, pack, or browse for local crafts and souvenirs in Vovousa or a nearby village.

Farewell Dinner in Zagori

Enjoy a special farewell dinner, reflecting on your first five days in the beautiful Pindos mountains.

Explore Papingo Villages

Start your day exploring the beautiful twin villages of Megalo Papingo and Mikro Papingo, known for their distinctive stone architecture, cobbled streets, and stunning views of the Astraka Towers.

Wander through the quiet alleys and admire the traditional houses.

Wear comfortable shoes. The villages are relatively small and easily explored on foot. Don't miss the picturesque squares.

Traditional Taverna Lunch

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local taverna in Papingo, savoring traditional Epirote dishes such as local pies (pites), slow-cooked meats, and fresh salads, often made with locally sourced ingredients.

Ask for seasonal specials and local wine. Reservations might be helpful, especially on a Saturday.

Visit Ovires Rogovou

Take a short, scenic walk to the 'Ovires Rogovou,' a series of natural rock pools formed by the Rogovou stream.

While the pools might be frozen or partially covered in snow in winter, the unique geological formations and surrounding nature offer a beautiful photographic opportunity.

The path is relatively easy but can be slippery if icy. Wear appropriate winter footwear. Check local conditions before heading out.

Lodge Relaxation by Fireplace

Return to your rustic mountain lodge to unwind and enjoy the cozy ambiance.

Relax by the fireplace, read a book, or simply admire the mountain views from your accommodation, savoring the peacefulness of the Pindos mountains.

Many lodges offer warm beverages or snacks to enjoy by the fire.

Dinner at the Lodge

Enjoy a delicious dinner at your mountain lodge, which often features homemade local specialties using fresh, regional ingredients.

A perfect way to spend your last evening in the heart of Pindos.

Check with the lodge for dinner times and menu options. Booking might be required.

Leisurely Breakfast

Enjoy a final, relaxed breakfast at your mountain lodge, savoring local flavors and bidding farewell to the stunning Pindos scenery.

Breakfast is often included in the room rate at traditional guesthouses.

Final Village Stroll & Souvenirs

Take a short, final stroll around your village or nearby, perhaps picking up some last-minute local souvenirs like handmade crafts, local herbs, or specialty food products.

Support local artisans and producers. Shops may have limited hours on Sunday mornings, so plan accordingly.

Lodge Check-out & Transfer Prep

Complete your check-out procedures from the lodge and prepare for your onward journey.

Arrange for a local taxi or pre-booked transfer to Ioannina's KTEL bus station.

Confirm check-out time with your lodge. Pre-booking a taxi from your remote village to Ioannina is highly recommended.

Bus from Ioannina to Athens

Board a comfortable intercity bus from Ioannina's KTEL station for the journey back to Athens (Kifissos Bus Terminal). This scenic route takes you through central Greece.

Purchase bus tickets in advance, especially for a Sunday. Buses typically have comfort features. There will be at least one stop for refreshments.

Connecting Bus to Portoheli

Upon arrival at Athens Kifissos Bus Terminal, connect to another intercity bus for your final leg of the journey back to Portoheli, Argolidos.

This will be a long travel day, concluding your Pindos adventure.

Check bus schedules for connections from Athens to Portoheli in advance, as late-night services might be less frequent. You may need to wait at the terminal or take a short taxi to another bus terminal if the connection is not direct.