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From€650

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8502

3 days / 2 nights

Period of Operation : April to November

Zagori (Epirus)

Min Participants : 4

Max People : 7

Tour Description

Three days of stone villages, spectacular gorges and alpine trails!

Discover the wild beauty of Zagori on a three-day hiking journey through traditional villages, historic stone bridges and the mountain landscapes of Vikos–Aoos National Park. Our adventure begins on the old footpaths connecting Zagori’s villages and graceful stone bridges; a chance to experience the region’s architecture, history and quieter rhythms on foot.

We then venture into the magnificent Vikos Gorge, following a trail beneath towering limestone cliffs towards the springs of the Voidomatis River. On our final day, we climb from Mikro Papingo into the alpine landscapes of Mount Tymphi, passing the Astraka refuge on our way to the legendary Dragon Lake.

With welcoming village accommodations and varied walking each day, this tour offers a rewarding introduction to Zagori for experienced hikers who enjoy a challenge.

Highlights

Explore picturesque villages and admire their traditional stone architecture.
Spot alpine newts in the clear waters of the alpine lake.
Hike through the spectacular Vikos Gorge.
Discover the natural beauty of the Voidomatis springs.
Marvel at the striking rock towers above Papingo.

Level of difficulty / Entry requirements

This itinerary is rated as moderate, suited to hikers with good fitness who are comfortable with uneven mountain trails and sustained ascents and descents. Routes may be adjusted by your guide according to weather, trail conditions and the group’s pace.

Itinerary

Day 1Hiking Zagori’s Stone Bridges & Villages

Our first walk introduces us to the landscape and heritage of Zagori. Following traditional footpaths, we explore stone-built villages and historic arched bridges that once connected communities across the region’s rivers and ravines.
Along the way, we walk through woodland, pause at scenic viewpoints and discover the craftsmanship behind Zagori’s distinctive bridges. Cobbled lanes, stone houses and village squares offer a glimpse into mountain life, while our guide shares stories of the people who shaped these paths.
It is a relaxed introduction to the region, with time to enjoy the scenery and settle into the adventure before the more demanding hikes ahead.
Hiking Duration: 3 hours
Overnight in Zagori

Day 2Vikos Gorge

Today we explore one of Zagori’s most impressive landscapes: the spectacular Vikos Gorge.
Starting in Monodendri, we descend for approximately 45 minutes to reach the gorge floor. From here, our trail leads through a dramatic landscape of steep slopes, woodland and towering rock walls, revealing new perspectives as we make our way through the canyon.
After approximately four hours of walking through the gorge, we reach the springs of the Voidomatis River—a beautiful setting for a well-earned pause. A final uphill section of around one hour brings us to the village of Vikos, where our hike ends and we enjoy a delicious lunch!
This is a rewarding day immersed in the scale and quiet beauty of the mountains.
Hiking duration: Approximately 6–7 hours
Overnight in Zagori

Day 3Mikro Papingo, Astraka Refuge & Dragon Lake

Our final day takes us high into the mountains for a challenging hike to Drakolimni, the celebrated Dragon Lake of Mount Tymphi.
Leaving Mikro Papingo, we follow a steadily ascending trail towards the Astraka refuge at approximately 1,950 metres. The climb takes around three hours, with widening views over the surrounding peaks and valleys. After a picnic break near the refuge, we continue across open alpine terrain towards Dragon Lake. Set among mountain meadows beneath the rugged peaks of Tymphi, the lake is a memorable destination steeped in local legend. Stories tell of rival dragons who hurled rocks across the mountains, leaving their mark on the landscape.
We pause to soak in the beauty of this remarkable setting before retracing our steps to Mikro Papingo, where our tour comes to a close.
Hiking duration: Approximately 8–9 hours
Departure transfer: From Mikro Papingo

Photos

Pricing

Price is based on a minimum attendance of 4 people.

Price Includes

All accommodations based on double/twin occupancy
All local transfers
Aegean Outdoors leader/guide throughout the tour
All activities mentioned in the program
Meals as indicated in the itinerary

Price Excludes

Personal/Travel insurance
Gratuities for leader/guide or driver and personal expenses
Drinks and meals not mentioned in the program
Climate Resilience Tax (payable locally at the hotels)

Recommended Gear

For this tour please consider taking along the following items on your trip. This is not a fixed list, but more of a guideline, so feel free to add and remove items as you see fit. Greece has a temperate climate. Base your clothing on the “layering system”, if it is hot you can “peel off” layers quickly, if it is cooler and windy you can quickly “dress up”.

What to bring

Day pack to carry camera, water bottle, snacks and etc.
Warm layers, such as fleece tops, for cold or windy days and cool evenings.
Walking shorts and long trousers, preferably made from quick-drying fabric. Avoid denim.
Comfortable sweatshirts or T-shirts for walking, including at least one long-sleeved top with a collar for sun protection.
Lightweight and supportive hiking boots, broken-in with good ankle support
Sunscreen and lip protection
Hiking Poles
A reusable water bottle to support our commitment to eliminating single-use plastic water bottles.