Zagori, the Place Beyond the Mountain

In the heart of Epirus, cradled by the Pindus mountain range, lies the effortlessly beautiful Zagori. Comprising 46 traditional settlements known as "Zagorochoria," scattered at the foothills of the mountains, Zagori is one of Epirus' richest historical and cultural areas. If you cherish tradition and adore nature, it is your ideal destination!

Name Origin 🧐

The word "Zagori" comes from the Slavic prefix "Za," meaning "behind," and the noun "gora," meaning "mountain." Thus, Zagori means "place behind the mountain." It's a translation of the region's ancient name, "Paroraia," which means "by the mountain," from Slavic tribes that settled in the area in the 6th century.

Zagorochoria (choria: villages) 🏡

Harmoniously blending tradition with breathtaking natural beauty, Zagorochoria are rightly among Greece's favorite destinations. These stunning, picturesque villages built with stone and wood, surrounded by the untouched nature of the Vikos-Aoös National Park, truly leave you speechless. Despite their significant tourist development, they remain untouched by time, allowing visitors to witness the living heritage and history of the region. The wild beauty of the mountainous landscape with its lush slopes, rivers, alpine lakes, and steep gorges blends seamlessly with human creations, such as stone arched bridges, stone mansions, churches, and paved paths

😍 From the cosmopolitan Megalo Papigo with its cobblestone streets, stone churches, and a view of the towers of Astraka, to the charming Mikro Papigo, where you'll find the "Kolymbithres," small natural pools where Ali Pasha is said to have bathed. From Tsepelovo, the largest village in the area with well-preserved mansions, to Vitsa village with a view of the impressive Vikos Gorge, near the sources of the Voidomatis River. Monodendri, Aristi, Kipi, Dilofo, Koukouli, Kapesovo, and many more villages await you to discover and experience the authentic way of life in Epirus.

What to do in Zagori:

1. Hike on lush trails with famous stone bridges.
2. Walk through beautiful cobbled streets & village squares.
3. Explore the renowned Vikos Gorge.
4. Experience unique rafting on the Voidomatis River.
5. Taste Epirus pies and local tsipouro.
6. Visit Drakolimni Lake and embrace the beauty of the alpine landscape.

#FunFact: While composing these lines in September 2023, Zagori earned the esteemed distinction of being designated as a UNESCO Heritage Site, reaffirming its global historical significance.