From exotic beaches to gorgeous mountain villages and mythical rivers, Epirus has plenty to tempt you this season.
Every time we travel to Epirus, we reaffirm that it is one of the most distinctive regions of Greece. Here you can savor the beauty of the mountains, enjoy enchanting routes in nature, dive into natural pools and rivers, and within a short time find yourself on the exotic beaches of the mainland coastline that flirt with the Ionian. Below, we have gathered the most compelling experiences that will make you... forget the islands and discover the summer allure of Epirus.
The understated charm of Preveza
Preveza, at the southernmost tip of Epirus, at the entrance to the Ambracian Gulf, is a town with an island vibe and rich history that will captivate you with its pedestrian seafront promenade and its numerous ouzeris and meze eateries. Monolithi, just outside Preveza, is a golden sandy beach stretching for about 25 km! Kyani Akti, Alonaki, Kanali, Kastrosykia, Lygia, Vrachos and Loutsa are some more of the areas wonderful beaches you should not miss. At a distance of 7 km. north of Preveza lies Ancient Nikopolis, where visitors can admire ruins of basilica churches, the theatre and the odeon.
Parga, the «island» of Epirus
At a distance of 60 km. from Preveza, Parga is a beautiful, colorful town that lacks nothing compared to an island. Built amphitheatrically in the recess of a picturesque bay, where the verdant islet of Panagia nestles, protected under the shadow of its Venetian castle, the famed seafaring town will surely steal your heart. Stroll through the old town with its distinctive architecture and climb up to the Venetian castle to enjoy the magnificent view of the Ionian. Pargas strong suit is its impressive beaches. Valtos, Lichnos and Sarakiniko await you for refreshing dips. It is worth adding to your itinerary a visit to antiquitys most important necromanteion, the Necromanteion of Acheron, located about 20 km. from Parga.
Exotic swims in Sivota
Next stop, exotic Sivota. With a key asset of a sea lacework of lush islets, broad beaches with tropical waters, and hidden coves, it evokes something of... the Caribbean. The star beach of the area is paradisical Bella Vraka, which links Sivota with the islet of Mourtemeno. Visitors can reach the islet by walking through the sea, as the water does not exceed a depth of 40 cm. Another famous beach you must not miss is Pisina that is located on the islet of Mourtos (access is only possible by caique or boat). Between Sivota and Perdika two more wonderful beaches await you: Mikri Ammos and Mega Ammos.
In the rivers of Epirus
For the adventurous, there is also the option for even more... refreshing dips or activities such as rafting and canoe-kayak on the rivers. At the Springs of the mythical Acheron, near the village of Glyki, you will swim in crystal-clear, icy waters amid a unique landscape of wild nature. The Voidomatis, with its crystalline waters, which have a constant temperature of 4 C°, is considered one of the cleanest rivers in Europe and is ideal for beginners who want to get to know rafting. The route from the Aristi bridge to the stone bridge of Kleidonia is enchanting. The descent unfolds in a verdant environment among centuries-old plane trees and stone arched bridges. Unrivalled routes in nature are also offered by the Arachthos and Aoos rivers.
Summer on Lake Pamvotida
Ioannina. A city full of history. The jewel of the city is Pamvotida, the lake of legends and traditions. After your stroll along the lakeside road beside the serene waters, you will take the little boat to the lakes picturesque islet. The distance is short, but you will feaston beautiful sights. It is one of the few lake islets in the world that are inhabited. There you will taste local specialties (frog legs and eel) at one of the little tavernas, buy souvenirs from the traditional shops and visit monasteries of exceptional interest, such as the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Philanthropinon and the Monastery of Agios Panteleimon, where the Museum of Ali Pasha and the Revolutionary Era is housed.
Ascent to the mythical Drakolimni of Gamila
Summer is the safest season to plan a hike to the Drakolimni of Gamila, the alpine lake located at an altitude of 2.050 m. It is a unique experience. You can reach it only on foot via the trail that starts from Mikro Papigo. You will need about 2,5 to 3 hours to reach the Astraka refuge (1950 m.) and from there about another 1,5 hours to arrive at the mythical dragon lake. Its waters are crystal clear and reach a depth of 5 meters, while the view to the surrounding mountain peaks is excellent.
Hiking in the Vikos Gorge
The Vikos Gorge is the ultimate attraction in Zagori. It is a magical place of great ecological value, and it holds a place in the Guinness book as the gorge with the smallest opening in the world. The best season for crossing Vikos is summer - always, of course, with the company of an experienced guide. You will toil (the duration of the route is at least 5 hours), but you will be rewarded with images of incredible beauty. An experience worth living and reliving!
Swimming in natural rock pools in the Zagorochoria
On the road from Megalo to Mikro Papigo a stop is a must at the Rogovo stream and the small natural pools called Kolymbithres (locals call them «ovires»). These are hollows formed by the natural flow of the streams water that resemble small ponds. It is one of the sights worth seeing in the area, as the landscape is wonderful in every season of the year. In summer they are ideal for refreshing dips and sunbathing on the smooth schist slabs!
