Syrrako, Matsouki, and Kalarrites Villages

Baros Pass - This road winds like a snake through canyons, forests, and steep slopes.

Matsouki - Matsouki is one of the Tzoumerka villages, known for its rich tradition and stunning examples of traditional architecture, including bridges, watermills, and the impressive 11th-century Holy Monastery of Vlyza.

Sirakon - The villages “Syrrako” and “Kalarites” are among the most renowned 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 amazed 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.

Kipinas Monastery - This impressive monastery, with its wild beauty and architecture, is built into the middle of a massive rock on the northeast side of the Arachthos River Gorge, admired for its construction over vertical rocks.

Kalarites - “Kalarites” is home to renowned tailors, builders, merchants, stone craftsmen, and silversmiths. Along with “Syrrako,” it is a traditional settlement and tourist resort in the mountainous “Tzoumerka,” boasting incredible natural beauty.

Pramanta Area

Plaka Arched Bridge - The “Politsa” bridge, constructed at the end of the 19th century, facilitated movement for residents from the villages of Ampelochori, Raftanai, Akmada, Pramanta, and Ktistades towards Ioannina. The bridge features four arches, with three smaller ones resting on the ground and the large arch spanning the “Arachthos” river.

Anemotrypa Cave - Discovered in 1960, the “Anemotripa” Cave in Pramanta was found when cool air emerged from a small rock crevice, prompting exploration. It is the only cave in Greece with a river running through it, allowing for natural self-purification, making visits truly enjoyable.

Pramanta - This settlement, situated at an altitude of 840m, is built amphitheatrically at the base of “Strogoula” mountain (2,107 m), perhaps the most majestic 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.

Agias Paraskevis Monastery - Founded in 1876 by the monk Dionysios on the site of an older church dedicated to Agia Paraskevi, this historic monastery is fortified like a fortress and located just outside Pramanta on a small hill.

Melissourgoi - The village name Melissourgoi (meaning Beekeepers) reflects the industrious nature of its inhabitants, akin to the hardworking bee.

Katsanochoria Villages

Iera Moni Panagias Tsoukas - Tradition holds that the monastery was founded in 1190 by Emperor “Isaac II Angelos,” destroyed in 1736, and renovated in 1779.

Theodoros Papagiannis Museum of Contemporary Art - This museum is unique for its works that celebrate Epirus and its history, highlighting what has brought it glory and respect among Greeks. It speaks of bread, benefactors, exiles, intellectuals, Epirot craftsmen, shepherds, farmers, the enduring Epirot mother, and education.

Kostitsio - From the village of Kostitsi, a 30-minute easy walk leads to the Prophet Elias Church, offering an incredible location with excellent views of two rivers converging within the canyon.

Frasta - Built in 1866, this bridge was once the largest single-arched bridge in the Balkans, with a 40-meter opening chamber, a height of 19 meters, and a 3.2-meter opening at the top. From 1881 to 1913, it served as a border between the Greek and Turkish states.

• Lunch
• Bottled water
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Video & photos

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