Greece is celebrated for its picturesque islands—around six thousand in total, with several hundred inhabited—but the country’s charm extends far beyond its coastal borders. During late spring, summer, and early fall, escaping the urban hustle and crowded tourist spots to discover serene, green mountainous regions is a refreshing experience.

16

Nestled in northwest Greece, the Epirus region boasts rugged mountains and tranquil lakes, offering a year-round haven for travelers. Summers in Epirus are particularly enchanting. The region is home to the crystal-clear waters of the Acheron River, steeped in Greek mythology, and the dramatic Vikos Gorge, recognized as the deepest gorge in the world. Epirus is a treasure trove of natural beauty and exhilarating activities.

The region is also famous for its stunning waterfalls, such as those at Katarraktis, providing a cool respite in the heat of summer. For a quieter outdoor experience, the serene lakes of Aoos and the picturesque Ovires Rogovou waterfalls near Papigo offer idyllic retreats set against a breathtaking mountain backdrop. Whether it’s rafting, hiking, or simply soaking in the views from a quaint mountain village, Epirus offers a diverse range of activities to satisfy every adventurer.

Continue reading to uncover the must-visit spots and activities in this captivating part of the world.

01

A dip in the crystal-clear (and cold!) Voidomatis River

For those familiar with swimming in rivers and waterfalls who haven’t swum in the waters of Voidomatis, it may seem redundant to stress just how cold they are. In summer the river loses a fair amount of water, but nonetheless, the experience of a dip there is truly delightful. Swim near the bridge that leads to Papigo, where there’s ample space to enjoy the cool river waters, in a place with a beach-like atmosphere. Or, near the stone bridge of Kleidonia, where you can dive under the grand plane trees. This particular river is an ideal starting point for beginners in rafting, as navigating the river is quite easy here, and the scenery is uniquely beautiful.

02

A walk in the paradise of Central Zagori

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It’s well worth taking a walk from Aristi village in central Zagori to the bridge of Klidonia. The walk is easy and enjoyable, which is especially important on particularly hot days. Starting at the concrete bridge just past Aristi, having tackled the first uphill bend in the road towards Papingo, you’ll find the start of the trail. Along the way, stop to admire the geological formations, caves and the unique nature of the region.

Another option in the area, combining walking with swimming – if there’s enough water – is the trail that begins at Mikro Papingo and ends at the Pools, a truly magical landscape with towering rocks, shaped by the erosion by the Rogovo stream. The rocky riverbed has been transformed into a natural sculpture with small waterfalls, various water levels and minimal human intervention, apart from a small dam at the start of the trail. You can also reach this spot by car.

03

An exploration of the mini-fiords of Aoos Springs Lake

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Periklis Merakos
Periklis Merakos

Aoos Springs Lake is an artificial lake in heart of the Pindus Mountain range created by the works of the Public Power Corporation and it’s quite a spectacle. It sits at an altitude of 1,350 meters and looks like the perfect natural lake. Wedged between two national parks, the Valia Kalda and Vikos-Aoos, it’s spread over 11.5 square kilometers. Its depth varies greatly from one section to another, ranging from just one meter to 80 meters, its deepest point. At such a height, there is certainly a coolness, even when the temperature in Athens and other regions may have hit over 40 degrees Celcius. Read more about Aoos here.

04

A boat ride alongside dolphins


Don’t miss out on a captivating boat tour of the Ambracian Gulf. Experience close encounters with sea turtles, dolphins, and an array of bird species. Guided by Giannis and his family’s generations of expertise, these tours on traditional wooden boats offer an intimate glimpse into the area’s natural beauty. Departing from Preveza port, each journey includes a leisurely stop at a picturesque beach where you can indulge in freshly prepared seafood snacks.

05

A day at Monolithi Beach

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Monolithi beach in Preveza captured the spotlight in 2020 as the European Best Destinations, an organization under the European Commission, hailed it as Europe’s safest beach. Stretching an impressive 22 kilometers and widening up to 80 meters, Monolithi beach is renowned for its pristine waters and a unique blend of slightly coarse sand mixed with pebbles. The beach caters to every preference, from lively spots near the beach bars to tranquil stretches at its secluded ends, making it an ideal choice for diverse beachgoers.

06

A passing through the Gates of Hades

Following the village Vouvopotamos (see signposts on the Preveza-Parga highway) in the Glyki area, you’ll find the ideal perfect spot from where you can see the Acheron river and walk to its source. According to mythology, this is where the Gates of Hades once stood, where souls were transported from the upper to the lower world by Hermes. Also known as ‘the river of woe’, the Acheron River was thought to be covered by the souls of the deceased waiting to enter the Underworld. Mythology aside, you can look forward to a reviving swim in the river waters, clean and ebullient yet deadly cold even during the summer months.

07

A connection to the Underworld at the Nekromanteion

At 25 kilometers from Parga, at the point where the Acheron, Kokytos and Pyrifleghethontas rivers meet, next to Lake Acherousia, lies the most famed necromancy of Ancient Greece. This is the Nekromanteion of Acheron, which according to Homer was located near the gates to the Underworld, where Hades’ kingdom reigned. There the living met with the dead, who had acquired the ability to predict the future. Today, the place where the oracles made their prophecies remains there, echoing the whispers of the dead for anyone able to hear them.

08

A swim at Parga’s azure beaches

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The beaches of Parga will blow you away. In the main town, especially if you have kids, swim at Kryoneri or Piso Kryoneri for a less crowded experience. For a buzzing atmosphere with music, cafes and restaurants, head very near to the center of Parga, just behind the Castle, where the long beach of Valtos lies. The wonderful beach of Lychnos, with its famous sea caves is just three kilometers in a picturesque village of the same name. Around six and a half kilometers from Parga, the unparalleled beauty of the “hidden” Ai Giannakis beach, whose turquoise waters are always shielded from the wind, awaits you. Sarakiniko, 12 kilometers away, is also lovely, thanks to its fine sand and crystal blue waters. For a different, wilder experience go just one kilometer from Sarakiniko to the beach of Agios Sostis. Deserted, and inaccessible on foot, it’s best suited for the adventurous.

09

Rafting Along Tzoumerka’s Arachthos River

The Arachthos river has become synonymous with adventure sports and is a year-round meeting point for individuals seeking authentic experiences in nature. This river’s source is at the Pindus mountains’ northern section and it flows into the Ambracian Gulf. You can go rafting along a stretch roughly 10 kilometers long, starting at the Politsa river in Abelohori. The route is filled with impressive natural beauty, the highlight being the narrowest point of the gorge. Its towering rock sides, which, from below, seem as if they would touch at the top. The route reaches its end soon after this point, at the single-arch Plaka bridge, which, following its collapse, was entirely reconstructed to fully resemble the original structure.

10

A shower under Tzoumerka’s magnificent waterfalls

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Nine impressive waterfalls, the largest at 25 metres high, can be found at Pyli Tou Paradeisou (Gate of Paradise), one of the country’s most impressive gorges. Entry to the gorge, also known as Karlibou, is before Kalarrytes and its exit is near the Kipina Monastery. Upon entering the gorge, you’ll reach the first series of waterfalls within a 15-minute walk.

Another lovely route is through the Stavraetos gorge that begins from a cobbled path next to the entrance of Syrrako village. This passage features an impressive waterfall that is 50 meters high as well as a number of smaller waterfalls. Then there are the waterfalls of Souda, just outside the village of Theodoriana, built on a slope in eastern Tzoumerka, at 960 meter altitude. And finally the ‘double waterfalls’ near Kryopigi, at a height of 1,360 meters. Read more about the ‘Twins’.