Few mountain regions have what Metsovo offers: a mix of beautiful nature, delicious gastronomy, rich culture and history, and modern tourist infrastructure that respects local traditions. As soon as the weather turned wintry, we knew what we wanted to do. But for a trip to the town, which is situated at an altitude of 1140 metres, and to the surrounding area, we needed the right kind of vehicle. The solution was to rent a car from Avis.

21

Avis.gr made it easy for us to find what we were looking for. A sturdy vehicle that could comfortably navigate the mountainous roads of Epirus. With all the comforts to ensure safety and warmth in winter conditions. We opted for a four-wheel drive car so that we could easily navigate dirt roads if necessary.

So, after picking up the car at the Avis station on the day and time we had agreed, and the courteous staff explained everything we needed to know about its operation, we set off. If you haven’t travelled to this part of Greece in years, you’ll find that getting to Metsovo is not the “Odyssey” of the past. Thanks to modern highways such as the Ionian and Egnatia Odos, Metsovo is less than five hours from Athens. We set off at dawn. This gave us plenty of time and daylight to enjoy a good dose of snow.

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In the warmth of the chalet at the ski resort/Photo: Amalia Kovaiou
Photo: Amalia Kovaiou

At Greece’s Newest Ski Resort

The newest ski resort in the country has also made Metsovo an increasingly popular destination. The Anilio Ski Centre opened in 2012 and, due to its geographical location, almost always has enough snow each winter. The temperature was at around zero and there was a light snowfall. We decided to postpone our first stroll around Metsovo until later to visit the ski resort. It’s one of those occasions when the journey is as rewarding as the destination, as we experience the sheer joy of snow and nature.

The roads are clear and safe, but the snow is thick, and the views are magical. As we climbed the mountain, we saw more and more white fir trees. Once you reach the resort, at 1,790 metres above sea level, you will find slopes for all levels of ability, with the possibility of off-piste runs for the more experienced. The resort is equipped with an 800-metre two-seater ski lift, two brand new T-bar lifts at 280 and 300 metres, two baby lifts at 80 and 120 metres, and snow groomers to ensure the best possible conditions.

On the descent from Anilio to Metsovo, our car offers safety and visibility thanks to its large, clear windows. This gives us the opportunity to admire the view of the roofs of the town from a great distance.

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Photo: Amalia Kovaiou
Photo: Amalia Kovaiou

The Metsovo Mansion

The town, which is linked to the history of the Vlachs, is built amphitheatrically on the green slopes of Mount Pindus, at an altitude of 1,140 metres above the Metsovitikos River, and rivals the most important European winter resorts. A key year for Metsovo, the birthplace of famous benefactors such as Georgios Averoff, Michael Tositsas and Nikolaos Stournaras, was 1959. It was then that the politician Evangelos Averoff envisioned the renaissance of Metsovo. Important buildings were restored and the first vineyard in Greece was planted at an altitude of over 1,000 metres. The Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc varieties are now used to produce the famous Katogi Averoff wine. A cheese factory was built, producing the famous Metsovone and other cheeses. Cultural landmarks were created and gradually the town came to life and gained a tourist attraction.

Metsovo offers exceptional accommodation and dining, and is also a nature lover’s paradise, nestled in the Pindus National Park, next to the enchanting Valia Calda. For more details on what there is to see and do in Metsovo, you can read more here.

From Metsovo to Haliki

Using Metsovo as a base, there are plenty of opportunities for beautiful drives, with one in particular standing out. The 25-kilometre drive from Metsovo to Haliki can be challenging in winter but is well worth it. The first half of the route winds through a dense oak forest, which in winter is covered in snow, but in spring and especially in autumn is a breathtaking palette of colours.

The road is narrow and requires caution, but traffic was practically non-existent and did not disturb the tranquillity of the landscape. We stopped more than once to admire the beauty of Epirus’ winter nature.
Once you leave the forest, the landscape changes dramatically. The zone above 1,500 metres up to the pass is a completely wild terrain, barren except for the snow that has fallen. The peaks of Mt Pindus covered the entire horizon and the snow-covered meadows resemble scenes straight out of a Central European album.

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Anthochori/Photo: Amalia Kovaiou
Anthochori/Photo: Amalia Kovaiou

From the top of the pass there is a wonderful tarmac road down which our car will take us, slowly but surely, to Haliki. The views of the surrounding mountains and the Aspropotamos valley are breathtaking, and the tarmac road leading there is in fairly good condition. Of course, such a trip can only be undertaken in good weather.

The rest of our days in the area were spent driving around and visiting nearby villages like Anthochori and Votonosi. These villages, with their flowing waters, also allowed us to admire the “trademark” of Epirotic architecture, the stone bridges. One thing is certain: thanks to the excellent car we rented, we thoroughly enjoyed our excursion to this gem of mountainous Greece, and we will definitely be planning another trip in the winter; planning ahead is also a great idea because Avis has a discount offer for travel in the first quarter of the year, valid for bookings made by 31 January.

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Metsovo/Photo: Amalia Kovaiou
Metsovo/Photo: Amalia Kovaiou

Tips for Driving in the Area

Make sure your vehicle is suitable for this type of journey, and bring snow chains in winter (as well as snow boots for when you get out!).

In spring and summer the area is suitable for sports such as rafting, canyoning, canoeing, kayaking and cycling.

To get the most out of the Epirotic Mountains, it’s a good idea to bring the right clothing and footwear. Even in summer, a jacket is necessary.

In this article, we have focused more on the driving aspect and the natural beauty of the area. However, Metsovo also has several important cultural attractions like the Averoff Gallery and the Metsovo Folk Art Museum.

In spring and summer, the area is particularly suitable for off-road driving, so it’s a good idea to come here with a 4×4. At avis.gr you will find what you are looking for.

Read also:

A refreshing experience in the alpine setting of Metsovo

Metsovo: Discovering one of the most famous and beautiful villages in Greece

Mountain escape in Metsovo: The stunning village you’ll never want to leave