Autumn Escapes to Greece’s Mountains and Lakes
When the summer crowds depart, Greece’s...
Orizontes Tzoumerkon
Winter in Epirus strips things back. In Greece’s mountainous northwest, shaped by altitude and forests rather than coastline or plains, snow settles on rooftops and mountain ridges, and stone villages slow to a quieter rhythm. Days are crisp and clear; nights revolve around fire, good food and time spent indoors.
This is a season for unhurried walks, cold air on the face, and returning to a warm room at the end of the day. With little need for distraction, Epirus in winter feels grounded and self-contained.
We selected five guesthouses that suit the season: calm, welcoming and closely tied to their surroundings.
A floral armchair by the fireplace makes the perfect reading spot. The spa, overlooking forested slopes, offers therapeutic massages that ease muscle tension and clear the mind. Built of local stone, the property has been operating since 2018, with a strong focus on peace, privacy and attentive service. Rooms, suites, spa facilities and the breakfast area are housed in two traditional buildings.
On one side rises Stroggoula, one of the most imposing peaks of Tzoumerka; on the other, Lakmos, part of the southern Pindus range. From almost every corner of the hotel, located between the villages of Pramanta and Melissourgoi, the view opens onto beautiful alpine scenery. All rooms feature cast-iron stoves and marble bathroom with whirlpool tubs. The two-storey maisonettes can accommodate up to four guests.
Kôres Boutique Hotel & Spa
Panoramic views over the fairytale forest surrounding the village define this boutique hotel, which offers 13 rooms and suites. Breakfast includes fresh eggs and handmade pies, and suites come with sitting areas and fireplaces. The spa features an indoor pool, jacuzzi and hammam. Attention to detail runs throughout, from Coco-Mat mattresses and Apivita spa products to Utopia coffee and a thoughtfully curated list of Greek wines at the restaurant.
Located near the village square and its centuries-old plane tree, the house – once the family home of the owner’s grandfather – was restored and transformed into a guesthouse. Family history remains closely woven into the present: Kostas Trakis, the grandfather, was a member of Perikloutsia, a renowned Epirus folk music ensemble. Photographs, vinyl records and books reflecting this musical heritage appear throughout the hotel. Rooms and suites follow a country aesthetic, and facilities include a hammam, outdoor hydro-massage, a restaurant and a bar.
Two old Zagori houses dating back to 1850 form the core of the hotel, which was later expanded with additional buildings featuring the distinctive grey stone that defines the region’s traditional architecture. From the outset, the hosts will make you feel right at home with breakfasts prepared with fresh local ingredients and thoughtful tips for exploring the region. All eight suites are spacious and bright, with fireplaces and contemporary interiors.
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