Exploring Greece's Nature & Culture Treasures
Take part in an exciting journey exploring Greece's rich wildlife and impressive culture. You will be based in a single good quality hotel, and will take daily field trips to National Parks and cultural sites. These trips will be kept to a maximum of seven or so hours giving you plenty of time to relax before and after. During your day visits, you will always be accompanied by inspiring experienced environmentalists, who have an intimate knowledge of the region's fauna and flora and will share with you their knowledge and expertise on the Parks' unique wildlife and ecosystems. You will have the chance to visit few of the most distinct archaeological and historical monuments of Greece. All these in comfortable four wheels drive cars and in groups not exceeding eight persons.
This expedition takes places within the five National Parks of Epirus Region, renowned for landscapes of exceptional beauty, marvellous variety of fauna and flora and fascinating cultural heritage. Depending from the visiting period, we will have the chance to observe and get hands-on knowledge on some of the unique key features of these exceptional areas. The region's ancient, historical and religious heritage will not be forgotten, as we will enjoy breathtaking landscapes from the amazing Meteora monasteries; visit the world-famous theatre and oracle of the Dodoni archaeological site; feel the mystic of the Oracle of the Dead or "Nekromanteio"; wander in the narrow streets of the historical villages of Zagori region with the stone houses. There will be also a possibility to visit Perama cave with the astonishing stalagmite formations; the well-known Vasilitsa and Anilio ski resorts; the Arachtos river for rafting activities; the Acherontas river for horse riding and more.
We will spend the whole week at an excellent hotel in the famous Metsovo village, only half hour drive from Ioannina city, the capital of Epirus region.
7 nights in Metsovo village hotel with en suite rooms and panoramic views of Pindos Range.
Available to solo and group/ family travel. The minimum group size is 4 participants and the maximum is 8. Ten years old and over can join.
Ioannina airport or bus terminal
30% deposit is required
All breakfasts and 6 picnic packed lunches. Dinners not included.
Birds, vegetation, wildlife photography. Mountain landscapes, historical and archaeological sites.
The expedition lasts 8 days. Custom itineraries and dates can be arranged for groups and families.
- €990 - 8 days. Per Person based on twin shared room
- €1070 - 8 days. Per person single occupancy
Prices incl. VAT
- 11 Oct 2020 - 18 Oct 2020
- Pre-departure support
- Return transfers to and from Ioannina Airport/ bus station
- Arrival orientation
- Necessary project equipment (binoculars, GPS) and materials (field identification guides)
- Transfers to expedition area locations and/ or National Parks by 4x4 drive cars
- Accommodation at a Hotel in Metsovo village
- Breakfast and packed lunch daily
- Experienced/ qualified biologist/ environmentalist as group Leader/ Nature guide
- 24-hour emergency phone support
- International and domestic flights or bus tickets
- Airport taxes
- Museum entrance fees
- Medical and Travel insurance
- The Epirus' five National Parks (Tzoumerka, Pindos, Amvrakikos, Acherontas/Kalamas and Pamvotis Lake) are considered few of Greece's finest parks, both in size and diversity of wildlife
- Exceptional fauna and flora with many rare species (mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, flowers etc.)
- Popular destinations in close proximity
- Exclusive historical villages with old stone made houses
- Important ancient sites, historical monuments and monasteries
- Many opportunities for sport and adventure activities (trekking, horse riding, rafting, canoe kayak, mountain biking, skiing etc.)
- Enjoy delicious local recipes
We know that a successful and unforgettable trip can be materialised only with an extraordinary guide at the helm. That is why we are proud to have in our company one of the finest naturalist expedition leaders in Greece.
We also know that responsible tourism simply must take place in small groups. That's why our trips average just between four to eight travellers. This not only provides a more comfortable and more personalised travel experience but also ensures that our guests' experience is what they want, not simply what is described in the information material. Travelling in small groups also means that we are able to offer to our guests the possibility to organise their own daily itinerary. Group leader and guests will discuss all the opportunities provided in the destinations and together will organise the day's programme.
So the itinerary below only provides a rough description of the possible activities and option that a visitor can choose from.
Transfer from Ioannina airport to the hotel in Metsovo, the village with the amazing mountain scenery and landscape. The village's famous tavernas and restaurants provide excellent opportunities to taste good wine, well-cooked local traditional food and shopping of famous local products.
We will spend our day in Pindos National Park, an area of enormous ecological value with rich habitat and species biodiversity, enriched with steep slopes and deep canyons like the famous Vikos Gorge, and few long rivers stemming from them like Arachthos, Aoos, Aliakmonas and Pinios. Among the rare animal species living in the mountains, rivers and lakes of Pindos Range we can mention the extremely rare Lynx (Lynx lynx), the Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus), the Wolf (Canis lupus), the Otter (Lutra lutra) and the very rare "wild goat" (Rupicapra rupicapra). Many rare birds of prey inhabit the mountains, such as the Vulture (Gyps fulvus), the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetus), the Lammergeir (Gypaetus barbatus), the Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus) and the Booted Eagle (Hieraetus pennatus). Here is one of the last biotopes of the brown bear (Ursus arctos) all over Europe. The flora of the Epirus mountains is very rich and diverse with many rare and endemic species, like the Centaurea pawlovskii in the Vikos Gorge and the Centaurea vlachorum in the Valia Calda.
This pristine area offers the splendid opportunity to walk through the world's steepest Vikos Gorge; enjoy the untouched forests and rare wildlife; explore rivers with crystal clear waters like Voidomatis and alpine lakes such as Drakolimni; wander in the narrow streets of historical villages like Papigo; learn about the important culture, architecture and history of the area; walk though superb trails and historic stone bridges; enjoy the splendid limestone cliffs, gorges, spires and cracked alpine plateaus; and witness restored thick walled churches and monasteries. Apart from trekking and wildlife observation, the visitor can enjoy horse riding, rafting, canoe kayak, mountain biking and even river swimming during the summer time.
It is a day for birdwatching and visit to fabulous mythological and historical sites. The National Park of Acheron & Kalamas is very important immigration route and biotope for birds and home of many endangered species. In the Acheron area we will have the chance to visit the Necromantio; the ruins of Middle Byzantine Basilica church in Gliki village; the Souli wells in Kougi; and the Castle of Kiafas. We will also have the possibility to take the steep path that connects the fertile valley of Acherontas with the historic village of Souli. This a trail that offers great views of the Straits of Acheron; passes through old arched bridges; the famous Stairways of Tzavelena and ruins of old mills; ending at the old castle of Kiafas which was the main stronghold of Souli. Some of us might choose to experience the adventure of taking the trail to the sources of Acheron, walking or horse riding through the river with the clear cold water.
In the Kalama River either by car, cycling, riding or hiking we will have the possibility to enjoy panoramic area views; observe birds of prey like buzzards, eagles, falcons and aquatic birds; visit historical monuments such as the archaeological sites of the Tower Ragio and Mastilitsa and the Stairway (Scala) of Sagiadas; and swim in the beach of Loutsa Papadias.
Tzoumerka is a pristine area with impressive mountains, magnificent landscapes, rushing rivers, spectacular waterfalls, lush canyons and traditional stone villages. It is an ideal destination for those who love the wild natural beauty and authentic Greek rural landscapes that has not been affected by tourism development. A perfectly sculpted coexistence of the built with the natural environment with stone bridges, cultural monuments, traditional villages, human artwork, beautiful landscapes, steep mountains and caves.
The diverse habitats host many rare and protected species of mammals such as otters, brown bears and the wild goat. The area is particularly important for birds and hosts hundreds of species of invertebrates, fishes, amphibians and reptiles. In some places of the Tzoumerka National Park the visitor might be able to watch the Vulture (Gyps fulvus), seeking its food in the alpine meadows and several other mountain bird species. The butterflies and moths decorate the alpine meadows with their colourful wings.
The National Park of Tzoumerka offers to the visitor great opportunities to admire pristine forests, astonishing landscapes and rare wildlife; walk through the famous stone bridges like "Plaka Bridge" that once was the border of Greece; and wander in some of the 70 villages that decorate the slopes of Tzoumerka. During our quest we will come across with old bridges, waterfalls, stone villages built with black stones, renovated old mills, churches, monasteries etc.
Apart from hiking and wildlife observation the visitor can enjoy rafting, canoe kayak and mountain biking.
The Amvrakikos Gulf is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Watching the birds of the two nesting colonies of the famous Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus) and wandering in the abundant feeding grounds of the Gulf, is an unforgettable experience. Exploring the largest reedbed of Europe, the Delta of the two rivers and about 20 lagoons we will have the chance to watch some of the 300 recorded species of birds, from which 160 are migratory and 6 are globally threatened. We might run into the recently returned water buffalos in the area, meet traditional fishermen and learn about their traditional fishing methods used in the lagoons. We also have the chance to get an excellent view over the wetlands from nearby St. Catherine's Hill.
The area is scattered with many other places of interest, like the legendary Old Bridge of Arta built with stones over the Arachthos River; the hilltop fortress of Rodia and its church of the Virgin Mary with the magnificent view; the remains of a Roman farm where the stone presses used for extracting olive oil are still in place; the archaeological site of Nikopolis built by Octavian in 31 BC to celebrate his victory over Anthony and Cleopatra and more.
About an hour and half drive from Metsovo, the impressive rocks of Meteora are rising from the plains of Thessaly, one of the most amazing places in Greece. Many centuries ago, on these gigantic rocks with the breathtaking landscape reaching heights of more than 600 meters, it was formed one of the most important monastic communities of Greece. Meteora is a great place to experience a spectacular landscape and byzantine monasteries perched on top of steep rocks that house priceless artefacts and wall paintings. Today only six monasteries are active with a small number of monks or nuns.
During our visit to this astonishing site we will have the chance to visit one or two monasteries, choosing from St. Nikolaos Anapafsas Monastery, the Monastery of Transfiguration of Jesus (Great Meteoro), the St. Stephen's Monastery, the Varlaam Monastery, the Roussanou Monastery or the Holy Trinity Monastery.
Apart from the spectacular Holy Monasteries, Meteora is also a great destination for outdoor activities. The steep rock formations of Meteora are an irresistible destination for rock climbers who travel from around the world for the experience. Following old trails under green trees, visitors can also visit some of the monasteries. The nearby Pinios and Acheloos rivers offer great opportunities for rafting and kayaking.
Ioannina, the capital of Epirus, a lively university student city, boasts a rich historic centre with plenty museums, orthodox churches, mosques, modern cafes and traditional coffee shops. It is built at the banks of Pamvotis lake, which has been declared as a protected area due to its high ecological value, as here important bird species nest.
Ioannina's long and interesting history can be explored through its many cultural attractions, which give the opportunity to get to know the roots of the spiritual tradition of Epirus. The visitor can walk the stone paved streets near the banks and mediaeval castle walls and can take a boat trip to the small island of "Nisaki" with the important historical monuments and visit the Protected Area's Information Centre.
Wandering through the streets and the historic centre of Ioannina, the visitor will come across with unique attractions and historical monuments like the House of Hussein Matei, the Ottoman Veli Pasha Mosque and the imposing castle of Ioannina, which was built in 528 AD and where the emblematic figure of the Ottoman Empire, Ali Pasa, lived.
At the outskirts of the town, is situated one of the most beautiful caves in Europe, the Perama Cave, which has a history of 1.5 million years. The beauty of the chambers and corridors is incredible. The stalactites and stalagmites create natural sculptures and structures that seems almost impossible to have been formed without human intervention.
Walking or cycling along the banks of the lake under the huge trees the visitor will come across to small shops and great restaurants, which combine the finest food with the green landscape. Eating in Ioannina is an exceptional experience as the visitor can taste well-cooked fish from the lake, such as eels and trout, traditional desserts like the excellent baklava and liqueurs without alcohol that cannot be found anywhere else except in Ioannina. In the cafes of the city you can try the unique "sherbeti" and sweet wine with aromas of fruit and flowers.
About 21 kilometres from Ioannina, we will have the opportunity to visit the world-renowned archaeological site shrine of Dodoni, mainly known for its ancient theatre and Oracle.
End Metsovo. Transfer to Ioannina airport or bus terminal.
This trip offers the chance to experience the best of the natural and cultural treasures of Epirus Region with magnificent mountain scenery, wildlife and historical/ cultural sites. Routes will include footpaths and mountain terrain and walking will be relaxed and easy. There will be around 3-4 hours of walking per day, usually less, and always at a slow pace plus plenty of stops to take photographs, admire the views and the wildlife of the five National Parks situated in the Region. The weather can vary greatly, especially during the winter, therefore the itinerary and walks may need to be adapted. It can be cool and therefore you are advised that you bring warm clothing. You must be also prepared for rain and snow before you travel. The walking during this trip is not technically demanding and should not present difficulties for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness.
Visitors should fly into either Athens or Thessaloniki International Airport and then take either the bus or a connecting flight to Ioannina Airport. Upon arrival in Ioannina guests will be picked up for transfer to the Hotel at Metsovo.
There may be a number of ways to reach Ioannina. For further information and advice please contact us and we can arrange your flights and bus tickets for you.
GreenTraveller's specialist staff provides personalised attention and on-going support to its guests.
Upon booking, you will have a comprehensive pre-departure briefing with the programme coordinator that provides all the details you will need to prepare for your trip to Greece. This briefing will cover topics and information on accommodation, staff, visas, optional activities, medical advices and more.
Upon arrival, your Group Leader will be always available and do his best to ensure that you will have an incredibly rewarding and memorable personal experience. All our Group Leaders are qualified biologists/ environmentalists and experienced professionals bringing a wealth of education and experience to enrich your journey.
Our staff will be always there to offer logistical and emergency support. A 24 hours a day, 7 days a week emergency contact number is provided for everyone who join us. We never compromise on safety!
Adequate and valid travel insurance is compulsory for all participants prior to their departure and while on one of our expedition/ tours. You are responsible for ensuring that you are in possession of a valid travel insurance for the entire duration of your trip in respect of medical expenses, personal accident, legal expenses, medical emergency repatriation and death, as well as make sure that there are no exclusion clauses which limit cover for the type of sport or other activities included in your programme, such as, but not limited, to trekking, diving, rafting, cycling, canoeing, skiing etc.
Epirus with the adjacent Regions has much more to offer than most would think: archaeological treasures, history, culture, magnificent landscapes, coastline, beaches and of course delicious food.
Depending from the season, from Metsovo, you can take a trip to many pristine and well known destinations like Vasilitsa and Anilio for skiing; Zagori and Tzoumerka for trekking, Preveza, Corfu and Lefkada for summer escapes; Prespes and Kerkini Lakes for birdwatching; Thessaloniki for shopping and more.
A friendly Hotel located in Metsovo, with magnificent mountain views and marvellously situated for the sites we visit, will be your home for a week. In the village guests will find a variety of tavernas and restaurants that serve delicious traditional dishes and good wine.
In the morning you will start the day with a continental breakfast with local yoghurt and fruit. Packed lunches are provided for 6 days, usually filled with cheese/ham or turkey and vegetables. You will enjoy your dinner, which is not included in the price, at local restaurants, which serve excellent and traditionally cooked meat and vegetarian dishes.
Please let us know if you have any particular dietary requirements.
There are single rooms available, which can be guaranteed with the supplement of €90 payable in advance on booking.
Certainly, this trip is centre based so if you would prefer to take off any of the days, you're free to do your own day programme.
Prior or after your trip with us, if you wish to take advantage of your holiday in Greece to visit other popular destinations or just simply take a day off for horse riding, skiing or rafting, we will be more than happy to arrange it for you.