An escape to the «Alps» of Evrytania blends nature, flavor, history and authentic hospitality.
Endless and usually snow-capped mountain peaks, rushing rivers, sheer gorges, historic monasteries and picture-perfect traditional villages, nestled within exuberant nature. Karpenisi, in the heart of Central Greece (about 3.5 hours from Athens and 4 hours from Thessaloniki), is a place of unique nature and rich history. Built on the southern slopes of Velouchi, it is famed for its ski center and is a paradise for outdoor activities: rafting, canoe-kayak, horse riding, off-road routes with 4x4, hikes along trails and through gorges deliver thrills to adventure lovers.
Karpenisi and its picturesque villages, together with the magnificent natural scenery that surrounds them, make a distinctive destination and the ideal springboard for magical experiences in Evrytania all year round.
Starting from Karpenisi
Karpenisi, the capital of Evrytania prefecture, is built on the southern slopes of Velouchi, at an altitude of 960 meters. It is a small mountain town surrounded by imposing mountains and abundant nature. The stroll begins at central MarkosBotsaris Square with its stone fountains, the Church of the Holy Trinity, and the old Town Hall building. Plenty of tavernas, spots for coffee and drinks and shops with traditionalproducts complete the scene. It’s worth stopping at the Evrytania History & Culture Center (K.I.P.E.), which narrates the region’s story in a contemporary way, as well as at the first and only Mountain Museum in Greece to learn the history of mountaineering and skiing and see items from the first Greek expedition to Everest. For the best panoramic view of Karpenisi, climb the hill of Agios Dimitrios. A stone’s throw from the town, you’ll find Kefalovryso, an idyllic spot with plane trees and running waters to unwind. If you’re traveling with family, a great idea is to visit Saloon Park, 2.5 km from the town, which offers a host of activities (horse riding, archery, trampoline, little train, etc.).
Escape to the snow
On the slopes ofTymfristos, 12 km from the town of Karpenisi and at an elevation of1,840 m, lies one of the oldest ski resorts in Greece. Velouchi Ski Center offers runs to suit every level of difficulty and experience. There is a chalet with rental and purchase of ski equipment and a bar with views of the pistes. There is also the option of staying at the mountain refuge.
From village to village
Among the best-known villages of the area, Megalo Chorio and Mikro Chorio (Old and New) will charm you with their stone-built squares, paths and lovely guesthouses. Be sure to pass through the historic village of Koryschades. In the square of this traditional settlement you’ll see the Church of Agios Athanasios (1865) and the listed stone school (1901), where in May 1944 the first assembly of the “National Council” of Free Greece was held. Today it houses the National Resistance Museum. Klafsi, Voutyro, Nostimo and Gavros are also worth a stroll. Each village has its own appeal. The superb route along the valley formed by the Karpenisiotis River will lead you to Prousos, the village historically linked to the famed Monastery of Prousos, or Panagia Prousiotissa.
One of the most beautiful jewels of Evrytania, the secluded village of Fidakia spreads its stone houses at an altitude of 960 m and stands out for the splendid views it offers over Lake Kremasta. Agios Nikolaos, 9 km from Karpenisi, is the first little mountain village you encounter on entering Evrytania on the road to Karpenisi, a small alpine paradise amid firs and chestnut trees. An alternative route in the southeast of the prefecture will bring you to Krikello with its lovely plane-tree-shaded square and to the historic village of Domnista.
Excursion to the historic Monastery of Prousos
At a distance of 30 km from Karpenisi and 2 km from the village of Prousos, you will come upon the Monastery of Prousos, built in a precipitous, rocky area between Mounts Helidona and Kaliakouda and the Panaitoliko range. The imposing monastery, which seems to cling to the vertical rock, is one of the most popular and striking sights of Evrytania. According to tradition, the monastery takes its name from the miraculous icon of Panagia Prousiotissa, which hails from Bursa in Asia Minor and is thought to be the work of the Evangelist Luke. The complex houses a museum with precious relics, icons, and books, as well as part of Karaiskakis’ weaponry. A visitto Prousos can be combined with a hiking route through one of Evrytania’s most beautiful gorges, which ends at Mavri Spilia (Black Cave), a refuge for locals during Ottoman times. The path linking the Monastery of Prousos with Mavri Spilia is well signpostedand takes one hour and a quarter to cross. You can also reach Mavri Spilia from the village via a shorter and easier hike of about 30 minutes.
Where it... Always Rains
Between Mounts Kaliakouda and Platanaki, at the narrowest point of the Krikellopotamos River, lies a magical place with pools, waterfalls, sheer rocks and wild vegetation. The Panta Vrechei Gorge, about 100 meters long, will leave you with your jaw dropped. It is a spectacular landscape the like of which one rarely encounters. The safest time to cross it is of course summer (fromJuneuntil the end of September), always with the help of experienced guides.
A stroll at Lake Kremasta
At a distance of 55 km west of Karpenisi, you’ll encounter the largest artificial lake in Greece. Lake Kremasta was created in 1965, when the waters of the Acheloos, Agrafiotis and Tavropos rivers were joined. The lake lies between the prefectures of Aitoloakarnania and Evrytania, which are connected via the Episkopi Bridge. The scenery, with its calm turquoise waters, tiny islets and the single-arched bridge of Manolis, will enchant you. The spot of Tsagkaralona, near the village of Fidakia, offers wonderful views of Lake Kremasta and the bridge.
Accommodation
Agios Nikolaos
- In the village of Agios Nikolaos, Kastanea House & Bar offers a unique hospitality experience to travelers seeking moments of serenity and warmth in nature.
Gorianades
- Mythica Chalet is an impressive property in the Gorianades area, 5 km from the center of Karpenisi. The two independent chalets are ideal for family holidays or a group of friends or couples.
Voutyro
- In Voutyro you’ll find Villa Virginia with beautiful rooms in warm hues, classic furnishings and carefully selected pieces.
Klafsi
- Nestled in the picturesque village of Klafsi, 6 km from Karpenisi, the guesthouse TO KALLION offers a well-crafted place to stay where tradition meets comfort.
- The small traditional guesthouse Magemeno Vouno features apartments and suites with tasteful, warm decor in a country style.
Megalo Chorio
- The Foxes is a new, stylish and fully equipped 75 sq.m. apartment on the outskirts of Megalo Chorio, ideal for those seeking tranquility, a bond with nature, and a great base for exploring the area.
- At Forest Suites you can choose among 14 rooms and suites, refined down to the last detail, with modern decor and views of the forest and mountains.
Mikro Chorio
- Helidona Guesthouse is set in a lush green environment and offers cozy, carefully decorated rooms overlooking the dreamy natural landscape and the village square.
- At the top of Mikro Chorio, the guesthouse I Gonia offers rooms that exude a sense of intimacy and warmth, all furnished with traditional furniture and a simple aesthetic.
Prousos
- The traditional guesthouse Via Ferrata Hotel is just 1.9 km from the Monastery of Prousos and is ideal for travelers and pilgrims seeking a rest stop and a comfortable stay in a warm, traditional setting.
Fidakia
- In Fidakia you’ll find Oichalia Guesthouse, which also has a taverna where you can try the region’s traditional specialties.
Taste
Megalo Chorio
- Thanasis grill house and Agios Athanasios Country Center are steadfast choices for traditional flavors in Megalo Chorio.
- A stop at Kyrá-Paraskevi’s café is a must to try the famous Karvelis galaktoboureko, made to a secret recipe since 1981. You can taste the same galaktoboureko at Rakomelo, right opposite, alongsidecoffee and hot rakomelo.
- At the junction for Mikro and Megalo Chorio, the Paradisos taverna is one of the best options for traditional food in the area.
Mikro Chorio
- For many years, meat lovers have been meeting at the taverna To Choriatiko, in Neo Mikro Chorio, for spit-roasted meats, kontosouvli, kokoretsi and tasty stews.
- At the restaurant «Stin Poli», in Palaio Mikro Chorio, the menu balances between traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine (and beyond).
Gavros
- In Gavros, just 1.5 km from Megalo Chorio, make a stop at the traditional taverna To Petalo, for homemade dishes, slow-baked lamb in the casserole, as well as local grilled trout. You’ll taste delicious trout and wonderful pies at the Fisherman’s House.
Prousos
- Don’t miss the chance to stop at Stremenos Charcuterie, just outside Prousos, renowned for its prosciutto, salami and other products.
Krikello
- The Antigoni taverna is a classic stop for good traditional food in the central square of Krikello village.
