Why go this time of year

The Vikos Gorge lies at the heart of the Vikos-Aoos National Park, which is home to many endemic, rare, and endangered plant species. Spring is when nature in the Zagori region comes to life: flocks of birds fly over the rivers, while bears and wild goats roam the forests. The rivers swell with melting snow, flowers begin to bloom, and the weather is just right – not too cold, not too hot – making it ideal for hikes and outdoor activities.

How to enjoy nature

The crossing of the Vikos Gorge is one of the most exciting and challenging hiking routes in Greece. It’s not technically difficult, but it does require stamina and good physical condition. The most popular route starts from Monodendri and ends in the village of Vikos (or the reverse). The total distance is 12.5km (about 7.8 miles) and it includes significant elevation changes and steep inclines. Depending on your pace and breaks, it can take between 5 and 7 hours to complete. The trail is well-marked and takes you through various landscapes, from steep limestone cliffs along the riverbed to lush, forested areas higher up. More than 1,800 plant species are found in the area, and many can be seen inside the gorge.

Another great way to experience the park is rafting down the Voidomatis River. From your inflatable boat, deep within the Vikos–Aoos National Park, you’ll see centuries-old plane trees, arched stone bridges and thrilling small waterfalls. Just keep in mind that the river stays cold all year, even in spring. The descent usually begins at the Aristi bridge and ends just after the Kleidonia bridge.

What if I’m up for more miles?

Zagori is a paradise for road trips. Leaving behind the villages immediately around the gorge, you can head toward Tsepelovo and Skamneli, or to Eastern Zagori, to the village of Vovousa, a gateway to the Valia Calda region, where you’ll also see the Aoos River. The drive to Konitsa is also interesting, and you also can go further north to the villages of Mount Grammos: Pyrsogianni, Vourbiani, and Kefalochori.

Dishes worth trying and where to find them

Don’t miss the local pies of Zagori, or classic “mountain” dishes such as soups, mushrooms and greens, wild game, and local grilled, spit-roasted, or oven-baked meats. At the taverna Sta Riza (Vitsa, Tel. (+30) 26530.715.50), try shepherd’s lamb with fresh mushrooms and ewe baked in parchment paper – slow-cooked in a clay pot for 12 hours. In the same village, Kanella & Garyfallo (Vitsa, Tel. (+30) 26530.716.71) specializes in mushrooms, which you can enjoy in salads, risottos, or in rich sauces with meat. For a taste of the famous pies of Zagori, head to Virginia (Asprangeloi, Tel. (+30) 26530.226.28), where they make village-style pies with greens, chicken, mushrooms, cheese, or the local “alevropita” (flour pie) daily.

Choose guesthouses that feel like destinations

Aristi Mountain Resort Hotel (Aristi, Tel. (+30) 26530.413.30, ) is a model mountain hotel very close to the Voidomatis River. Dias Guesthouse (Mikro Papigo, Tel. (+30) 26530.412.57, ) is set in a dramatic location beneath the imposing Astraka Towers. Warm hospitality has made Anemi Guesthouse (Kato Pedina, Tel. (+30) 26530.720.03, anemi-zagori.gr) a favorite in the area. At MounTrace Suites & Spa (Monodendri, Tel. (+30) 26530.711.11), the suites are modern and spacious, and when the weather is good, breakfast is served on a balcony with views of the village and the Vikos Gorge.

Don’t forget to take home

At Rogovo (Papigo, Tel. (+30) 26530.250.03), you’ll find delicious forest fruit jams, local tsipouro (a strong distilled spirit), honey, traditional pasta, herbal teas, and herbs. Also stop at Sterna (Papigo, Tel. (+30) 26530.250.90) for homemade jams, aged house-made tsipouro, dried mushrooms, and decorative items.