Picturesque villages, rivers and waterfalls are little oases of coolness on hot summer days.
There are days when the thermometer soars into the red and we all look for a breath of cool relief. Sometimes, even at the sea, the temperature is so high that we don't cool off at all. However, there are places in Greece that are perfect for escaping the heat even in the heart of summer.
Mountain villages, lush green forests, crystal-clear rivers and gorges offer the ideal escape for those who can't stand the heat and love being close to nature. If you belong to this category, the following destinations are ideal choices for a short or long getaway.
Zagorochoria
The Zagorochoria are an ideal choice to avoid the hot days - and especially nights - of summer. Forty-six well-preserved stone-built villages, imposing mountain ranges and impressive ravines, rushing icy rivers with beautiful bridges. They may be a renowned winter destination, however the Zagorochoria are wonderful in summer too.
On the road from Megalo to Mikro Papingo it's a must to stop at the famous Kolymbithres (Ovires Rogovou), the natural stone pools formed by the water of Rogovo, offering a unique plunge in nature. For the adventurous, there's also the option of dips or activities such as rafting on the Voidomatis with its crystal-clear waters. For the more active, the ascent to the Drakolimni of Tymfi is an unforgettable adventure. The trail passes through alpine landscapes and ends at one of the country's most impressive natural attractions.
Tzoumerka
Tzoumerka is one of Greece's most impressive mountain destinations. With imposing peaks, dense forests, waterfalls and traditional villages, they offer a sense of coolness even on the hottest days of summer. One of the area's greatest advantages is its beautiful villages. Pramanta is the best-known mountain hub of Tzoumerka and an ideal base for exploration. A little higher lies Syrrako, one of the area's most beautiful stone-built villages.
Tzoumerka is inextricably linked with its rivers. The Arachthos River crosses much of the region, creating impressive gorges and natural landscapes. Its waters are ideal for rafting and other activities, while along its banks you'll encounter some of Epirus's most beautiful scenes. The Kalarrytikos River is also significant, and among the area's most impressive sights is the man-made Lake Pournari, formed by the Arachthos dam. In the wider area you'll also find Lake Aoos, one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Greece.
Nymfaio
Built at an altitude of about 1,350 meters on the slopes of Vitsi, Nymfaio ranks among Greece's most beautiful and highest mountain villages. It stands out for its well-preserved stone mansions, cobbled lanes and the lush natural environment that surrounds it. Among the area's key sights is the brown bear sanctuary ARCTUROS, located a few kilometers outside the village. Within a natural forest setting, visitors have the chance to meet up close the bears rescued from captivity and learn about wildlife conservation in Greece.
In summer, temperatures remain noticeably lower than those of the lowland areas. The area around Nymfaio is also ideal for hikes and excursions. The forests surrounding the village are among the country's most beautiful and feature routes leading to viewpoints with panoramic vistas of the lakes and mountains of Western Macedonia. A short distance away is Lake Zazari, as well as the lakes Chimaditida, Petron, and Vegoritida, which are important wetlands of the country.
Karpenisi
Surrounded by the mountains of Evrytania, Karpenisi is built at an elevation of about 960 m at the foot of Velouchi and offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. It's a great choice for those who want to escape the heat of the cities and the islands, with pleasant temperatures even in August. A short distance away are some of the area's most beautiful villages such as Megalo and Mikro Chorio, with traditional stone houses, cobbled alleys and excellent views of the region's peaks. Dense fir forests, rivers and waterfalls create a setting reminiscent of an alpine destination.
The region's standout experience is a visit to the Panta Vrechi Gorge, one of the most impressive natural attractions in Greece. It's a striking landscape that will amaze you. Its waterfalls are accessible in the summer months. The waters that flow from the rocks create a natural "shower", while visitors can walk in the river and enjoy the unique scenery.
Arachova
Although many associate it with winter getaways, Arachova is an excellent choice in summer too. Its elevation and mountain environment ensure noticeably lower temperatures compared to urban centers. Meanwhile, Parnassos, which is a breath away, offers many options for hiking and exploring nature.
Arachova is an ideal base for excursions to the mountains and the sea, while it's very close to significant attractions. In summer visitors can enjoy the area's beauty without haste and get to know its traditional character. If you find yourself in Arachova in summer, you don't need to forgo the sea. About 30 km. away lies Itea, a seaside town with a beach in the mountains' shadow. In Antikyra Bay, you'll swim at the beaches of Agios Isidoros, in Antikyra and at the beach of Distomo, known as 'Aspra Spitia'.
Kalavryta
Kalavryta is one of the Peloponnese's most beloved mountain destinations, which in summer transforms into an ideal place for those who want to avoid the heat. Built on the slopes of Helmos, it offers a cool climate, lush landscapes and countless options for exploring nature. Its big advantage is that it combines mountains, rivers, gorges and easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Corinth.
The wider area is full of picturesque villages worth discovering. Zarouchla, built within dense fir forest, is considered one of the most beautiful mountain villages and pairs with a stroll at Lake Tsivlou. Planitero is perhaps the area's ultimate summer oasis, with running waters and plane trees. A place that offers coolness is the Kalavryta Ski Center on Helmos, which is an excellent destination for hiking. A significant natural attraction of the area is the Vouraikos River, which runs through the impressive gorge that connects Kalavryta with Diakopto. If you want to take dips in the sea too, in less than an hour you'll be at the beaches of the Gulf of Corinth.
