Vikos Gorge: Discover Greece's Untamed Wilderness

Have you ever thought about hiking during your next Greece vacation? And not just through the capital Athens or to the famous Meteora monasteries, but in the Vikos Gorge.

This natural wonder is located about 25 miles north of the city of Ioannina in northwestern Greece near the border with Albania. It is situated in the municipality of Zagori within the Vikos-Aoos National Park in the Pindus Mountains.

It is not the longest or deepest gorge in the world, yet the Vikos Gorge has made it into the Guinness Book of World Records as the 'deepest gorge in proportion to its width' worldwide. It is said to be around 2,950 feet deep and between 328 to a maximum of 3,600 feet wide.

The Vikos Gorge spans over 7.5 miles along the Voidomatis River, amidst the Vikos-Aoos National Park. This park is part of the Unesco Global Geopark Network, renowned for its ecosystem, which is one of the most significant in Greece. It is home to over 1,800 plant species and 186 bird species, as well as animals like bears, deer, and golden eagles. Additionally, the limestone walls that reach about 5,580 feet high are considered record-breaking.

A good starting point for your hike to the Vikos Gorge, recommended between April and November, is the village of Monodendri with the Oxya viewpoint. From there, a 8.3-mile-long hike leads through the gorge to the village of Vikos, with an elevation change of about 2,300 feet. The hike is considered difficult, so you should wear good footwear and be sure-footed.

On any of the hiking trails, you can look forward to unique nature experiences. Part of the journey takes you through dense forests, then opens up to clearings with fantastic views of the so-called Astraka Towers and other mountain peaks in the Tymfi range. Colorful butterflies accompany you, as well as the scent of flowers and herbs and the sound of rushing water, while you can picnic or simply pause at idyllic resting places.

A particular highlight for a break is the Klima Springs-the water is so pure that you can refill your water bottle there. These springs are located at the crossroads to the Megas Lakkos Gorge and not far from the Voidomatis Springs.

If you're already in the region, it's worth combining the hike to the Vikos Gorge with a visit to some of the 46 traditional Zagori villages. They charm with their stone houses, and some offer special cultural experiences. These are a few of the enchanting villages in the region:

Monodendri

Since Monodendri is an ideal starting point for hikers, it has several hotels and restaurants. Additionally, it is near the notable Agia Paraskevi Monastery, from where you also have a view of the gorge. But that's not all-you'll also find a 'stone forest,' so-called because of its rock formations shaped like trees. Other hikes lead from Monodendri to the stone bridges of Misio, Kokorou, or Kalogeriko.

Vikos

The village sharing its name with the gorge offers a beautiful view of the gorge. Just like in Monodendri, many hiking trails start from here-not only to the Vikos Gorge itself but also to picturesque spots like the sources of the Voidomatis River or the Panagia Spiliotissa Church. In the village, you'll find cozy accommodations.

Megalo Papigko and Mikro Papigko:

Papigko or Papingo refers to two neighboring villages, Megalo Papigko and Mikro Papigko, which are only two kilometers apart. You reach these picturesque villages, among the highlights of the region, via a romantic, winding road.

Megalo Papigko is the larger of the two places with the most accommodations. And it's no wonder, as its traditional architecture is not only extremely photogenic, but it is also near several attractions. These include the viewpoint to the Vikos Gorge, the starting point for rafting tours on the Voidomatis River, the Voidomatis Trail, and many more. Mikro Papigko is like the little sister of Megalo Papigko and is quieter, yet still worth a visit.

Looking for more inspiration? Find tips for all top travel destinations at bettercities.net.