Thousands of visitors flock to Meteora from around the world to visit the legendary monasteries in the sky, but while here it’s well worth exploring the wider area and its rich natural and cultural sights. Here we suggest six exciting experiences to add to your agenda.
Go River-Rafting
Explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Meteora from a new and exciting perspective with an exhilarating rafting adventure down the Pinios River. This route, spanning approximately 8 kilometres with a difficulty level of Grade 2-3, offers stunning views of the region’s iconic rock formations and is ideal for families and groups of friends of all ages, particularly during spring or autumn.
For those seeking a more thrilling experience, the Venetikos and Aliakmonas rivers between Meteora and Grevena offer rapids ranging from first to third degree. The route is chosen based on the group’s age and the prevailing conditions. Opt for a full-day tour, which includes riverbank picnics and a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters.
Have a Wine Tasting Experience
Meteora is home to several renowned wineries that offer a unique experience for wine lovers. The Liakou Estate (https://liakouwinery.gr/), which produces award-winning wines from indigenous grape varieties like Xinomavro and Krassato, welcomes visitors to explore the estate’s vineyards and cellars and taste its exceptional wines.
Another prominent winery in the area is the Loudas Estate (https://www.tsililisterres.com/), with vineyards in the foothills of Mount Olympus. The estate has been producing high-quality wines for generations, and its wines are paired with local delicacies in its tasting room. The Tsililis Estate (www.loudas.gr) is also a must-visit for wine lovers, with vineyards located in a fertile valley of Thessaly. Visitors can tour the winery’s facilities and vineyards, taste its renowned wines, and pair them with local cheeses and delicacies.
Climb and Hike the Via Ferrata
The Via Ferrata in Meteora is a hiking experience offering stunning views of the region and its lush natural landscapes. The trail features a series of ladders, cables, and steps that traverse or take you within the crevices of the famous rock formations, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.
While challenging even for experienced hikers, the hike is considered a highly rewarding one. The trail offers opportunities to explore historical and cultural sites such as the Byzantine monasteries and the ruins of ancient hermitages and dwellings. There are numerous trekking and climbing organisations offering such hikes in the Via Ferrata, each traversing different routes and providing experiences with varying levels of difficulty.
Visit the Museum of Natural History of Meteora
Discover the fascinating world of mushrooms at the Museum of Natural History of Meteora (https://meteoramuseum.gr/) in Thessaly, which has recently earned nine new awards for its exceptional exhibitions. The museum boasts a comprehensive section dedicated to the life cycle of mushrooms, providing a wealth of information on the diverse range of varieties growing in Greece and the surrounding region.
The museum is purpose-built, and visitors can explore each ecosystem – beech, pine, fir, oak, meadow, and more – to learn about the various species of mushrooms, their nutritional and therapeutic value, as well as humankind’s relationship with them throughout history, including myths and traditions. The museum’s unique truffle hunting activity has earned it two gold awards in the “Museums” category and one for “Rural Tourism” from the Greek Tourism Awards. In addition, their products have won a bronze award in the “Local Products” category.
Go Truffle-Hunting and Enjoy a Forest Meal
Buried in the lush forests of Meteora lies a remarkable opportunity to take your gastronomic adventures to the next level, organised by the Museum of Natural History of Meteora. The forests are renowned for their seasonal truffles and mushrooms, providing an exceptional chance to forage for these culinary treasures and relish a delicious meal cooked on-site with your freshly gathered bounty. Accompanied by experienced trainers and their truffle dogs, you’ll embark on an exhilarating expedition to learn the art of spotting and retrieving these valuable fungi.
You’ll also get to experience the serenity and natural beauty of the forest. Once you’ve collected your harvest, a skilled chef will guide you in preparing a delectable truffle-and-mushroom-based feast in the heart of the woods. Truffle hunting in Meteora takes place during the autumn and winter months, which is the truffle season in Greece. The exact timing of the season may vary slightly from year to year, but it typically runs from October to March.
See the Monasteries from a Hot Air Balloon
If you’re looking for an original (yet pricey, mind you) experience, Meteora Flights (www.meteoraflights.com) are ready to offer you a whole new perspective with a hot air balloon ride. These flights are available seven days a week, 365 days a year, weather permitting. The balloon launches into the sky around 30 minutes before sunrise or sunset, depending on the weather, and private transfers to the take-off area are included. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with hot drinks and snacks to start your adventure off on the right foot.
The pilot provides you with a full safety briefing, including landing procedures, before take-off. Although the balloon can only go where the wind takes it, your itinerary will be shaped by the wind flow to ensure a great experience. After approximately an hour in the air, the pilot determines a suitable landing site, and gently brings the balloon back down to earth. Upon landing, you are treated to a celebratory glass of champagne and receive a flight certificate.
Read also:
Climbing the Meteora in Greece, where the Human Touches the Divine
Road trip to Meteora and the Mountains of Trikala: A Route for all Seasons
Meteora: Top hiking routes – trails, monasteries and rocks of an awe-inspiring place in Greece
