Some trips leave you with beautiful snapshots. Others go a bit deeper, they remind you how good it feels to be in nature, breathing fresh air, exploring places you’ve never seen, and collecting moments that stay with you long after you return home. Our journey across Tzoumerka, Ioannina, and Grevena was exactly that. Three destinations, each with its own rhythm and little surprises.
First stop: Tzoumerka
We left Athens full of excitement for the trip ahead. When we arrived at Trekking Hellas Tzoumerka, we knew we had found something special. Right next to the Arachthos River and surrounded by trees and mountains, the base felt like a secret spot waiting for us.
We didn’t waste any time. After dropping our bags, we went straight for our first hike. Starting from the Melissourgoi refuge, we walked through green forest paths until we reached the Kefalovriso waterfall. It was tall, powerful, and so beautiful that we just stood there for a while, looking and listening to the water.
The next day, we started with rafting on the Arachthos, an experience that perfectly combines action and nature. After rafting, we visited Kalarrytes, walking through the village’s small streets until we arrived at Napoleon’s Tavern. The famous beef stew with hand-cut fries, served under the trees, was as delicious as everyone says.
Since we still had energy, we also hiked to Syrrako, a village that feels like it hasn’t changed in years. Stone houses, quiet streets, and a serene atmosphere made it easy to spend hours simply walking and taking in the surroundings.
On our last morning in Tzoumerka, we went canoe kayaking on the Ambracian Gulf. The water was calm, the views kept changing, and for a while, it felt like we were far away from everything. It was the perfect way to end this part of the trip.
Second stop: Ioannina
Our trip continued towards Trekking Hellas Ioannina, with a few must-stop breaks along the way. First stop was Megalo Papigo, where we had the most delicious apple-pear pie at Koukounari café and browsed through handmade jewelry, books, and ceramics.
The next day was all about Vikos Gorge, a place that, no matter how many photos you’ve seen, leaves you speechless when you see it up close. After that, we went rafting on the Voidomatis River, because no trip here feels complete without rafting. In the afternoon, we visited some of the Zagorochoria villages, enjoying a short walk and soaking in that calm, quiet atmosphere that Epirus is known for.
On our last day, we saved a beautiful hike for the end. We started from the village of Kipoi and followed the trails and old stone bridges of Zagori, built back in the 17th and 18th centuries. As we walked, it felt like we were stepping back in time. It was the perfect way to wrap up our stay in Ioannina.
Third stop: Grevena
The drive towards Trekking Hellas Grevena was an experience on its own. As we got closer to the hotel, fog covered everything, and through it we saw herds of horses and cows appearing. For a few moments, it felt like we were in a movie.
After that impressive arrival, the next day was all about hiking. First stop was the Zineli forest, also called the “magic forest” and for good reason. From there, we continued to Valia Calda, the Pindus National Park. No matter how many stories or photos you’ve seen, nothing prepares you for what you see there.
After filling our eyes with Valia Calda’s wild beauty, the next day was time for a bit more action. We tried Via Ferrata at Keli tis Kalogrias, a route that gives you just the right amount of adventure, with full safety and no need for any experience.
We wrapped up our trip with an e-bike ride at the foot of Valia Calda, followed by kayaking on Lake Ilarionas. The deeper we went into the lake, the more it felt like we were far away from everything.
Three different destinations, three different experiences, one thing in common: the beauty of nature and the warm hospitality of Trekking Hellas, who know how to turn a trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Thank you Trekking Hellas Tzoumerka, Trekking Hellas Ioannina & Trekking Hellas Grevena!