Syrrako - Kalarrites Villages

Syrrako - The village “Syrrako” along with “Kalarites” are among the most renowned villages in Tzoumerka, perfect for mountain tourism. These preserved stone settlements captivate visitors. When the French consul in Ioannina, Pouqueville, visited “Syrrako” and “Kalarites” in the 19th century, he was impressed by the commercial and natural beauty of the area, which Ali Pasha had chosen as a resort, leading to the opening of the Ioannina - Kalarites road. Preserved threshing floors and huts can be found in Syrrako.

Syrrako - Kalarrytes Path - The journey begins from the traditional village of Syrrako, continuing on foot to the village of Kalarrites. The path concludes at Kouiasa, where a break is taken to admire the springs.

Kalarites - Renowned tailors, builders, merchants, stone craftsmen, and silversmiths hail from “Kalarites,” which, along with “Syrrako,” are traditional settlements and tourist destinations in the mountainous “Tzoumerka.” The natural beauty is breathtaking.

Kipinas Monastery - This impressive monastery, with its wild beauty and unique architecture, is built into the middle of a massive rock on the northeast side of the Arachthon River Gorge. It is admired for being constructed over vertical rocks. Access is via a small path carved into the rock, continuing with a small hanging wooden bridge leading to the monastery. The wooden bridge is mobile, and the monks used leverage to raise it, making the monastery inaccessible to bandits, as a 4-meter gap is created on the cliff when it is lifted.

Pramanta - This settlement, built at an altitude of 840m, is amphitheatrically positioned at the foot of the mountain “Strogoula” (2,107 m), perhaps the most imposing peak of Tzoumerka. The 500-year-old plane tree and the historic “Arapis” fountain dominate the main square, next to the main church of Agia Paraskevi.

Otter Path

Frasta - The historic “Plaka” bridge, built in 1866, was considered the largest single-arched bridge in the Balkans, with an opening span of 40 meters, a height of 19 meters, and a top opening of 3.2 meters.

Katsanochoria

Kostitsi - From the village of Kostitsi, after an easy 30-minute walk, lies the Prophet Elias Church. It’s a stunning location with excellent views, where the two rivers converge within the canyon.

Plaka Arched Bridge - The “Politsa” bridge was constructed at the end of the 19th century to facilitate movement for the inhabitants of Ampelochori, Raftanai, Akmada, Pramanta, and Ktistades towards Ioannina. The bridge consists of four arches, with the three smaller ones resting on the ground, while the large arch spans over the “Arachthos” river.

Klifkis Waterfall - From the village of Kaletzi, the route leads to one of the area’s most significant attractions, the springs and waterfalls of Klifki, with the first waterfall standing at 47 meters high. Upon reaching the river, the last waterfall of Klifki is visible in an idyllic setting with a lake and incredible rock formations.

• Lunch

A comprehensive network of mountain trails has been established in the Tzoumerka region. These routes allow nature enthusiasts of all ages to safely explore the region’s distinct beauty. Well-marked and meticulously constructed pathways lead trekkers through dense fir tree forests adorning the lower mountain ranges. Everyone is invited to explore these slopes, relax beside stunning waterfalls, and visit streams and springs amidst this scenic beauty, which boasts a variety of herbs, wild mushrooms and unique flowers. Moreover, by navigating the stone-paved trails, visitors can enjoy scenic tours through quaint villages, rivers, stone-built bridges, caves, churches, and monasteries set in this breathtaking environment.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.