Pindus Panorama
€450 per person
The place behind the Mountain!
Zagori in slavic means “The place behind the mountains” and this is exactly where this adventure is taking place. In a relatively unknown part of Europe away from tourists and distractions Zagori awaits to be explored by true adventurers. Surrounded by mountains with jagged peaks above 2000m and a variety of vegetation ranging from low bush to huge centenarian trees this area, riddled with tiny picturesque villages, stone bridges and rivers is Greece’s best hidden secret.
See also: Olympus 3-day
Trip Highlights
Destination
Departure
Kapesovo or ThessalonikiDeparture Time
Approximately 8:00 amReturn Time
flexibleDress Code
Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat and warm jacket. See FAQ section for more information.Included
AccommodationBreakfastPersonal GuideTransportationTypical SouvenirNot Included
Beverages and snacksMeals
1
Day 1: Kapesovo to Monodendri
We start from the village of Kapesovo and we head to Vikos gorge from the path that begins from the village square and goes south towards Kipoi village. From there we continue towards the vilagges of Dilofo and Vitsa before we reach Monodendri for the night. This path goes by three of the most picturesque villages in the central Zagori area along with a plethora of stone bridges that are part of our route bridging the river vikos every time we encounter it.
2
Day 2: Monodendri to Papingo
We start our trek from the village of Monodendri and head down to Vikos gorge heading towards the springs of Voidomatis River for a swim for those brave enough. Vikos gorge is the crown jewel of the area although as a guide I much more prefer the Dragonlake which we will visit the following day. Then we ascent towards Papingo village for a well-deserved dinner and a good night’s sleep.
3
Day 3: Papingo to Astraka
Depart from Papingo and hike all the way to the alpine hut of Astraka at 2000m where we will be staying for the night. The path start in a forest are above Mikro Papingo and slowly enters the alpine zone of mount Tymfi until we reach the ridge where the mountain hut is located. There is an organized kitchen at the location but a sleeping bag is required for the night. From there we visit the famous Dragonlake and explore the surrounding area enjoying the alpine views of Tymfi.
4
Day 4: Astraka to Kapesovo
We complete the circle around the mountain starting our trek from the mountain Hut and going south towards the village of Kapesovo through the Vradeto steps a famous landmark of the area. We will be hiking at the alpine fields of mount Tymfi beneath jagged peaks exceeding 2000m through seasonal lakes and meadows. If the fatigue does’t allow it we can always cut the trek short and arrive at Tsepelovo and move towards the end point of Kapesovo by car.
Where is the meeting point and when?The tour starts and ends in Kapesovo, Zagori. Transfers from Thessaloniki and back can be arrange at extra cost.
What fitness level is required?This tour is rated at difficulty level of 3/5 and therefore a relative good fitness level is required being able to hike for up to 6 hours in a single day. The terrain becomes slightly more difficult only on the higher alpine sections.
What equipment do we recommend?
- Backpack (30-60L). You will need to carry all your stuff for the 3-4 day outing so a daypack is not enough.
- Hiking boots or trail running shoes with rugged outsole will be fine.
- A good grade waterproof jacket for weather changes.
- A warm midlayer.
- Long trousers and also shorts if you prefer for the daytime hiking.
- Sleeping bag with min. 5-15C temperature grading that you will need for sleeping in the refuge or a tent.
- Sun cream and hat
- Hiking poles
- Water bottle min. 1500ml
What is the best hiking season in mountain Tymfi?The best season is May to November.The snow accumulated from winter months usually melt by the end of April and therefore the conditions become easier for hiking. August is the warmest month with temperature even up to 30C are usual even at the higher altitudes. Don’t forget it is a mountain and weather conditions can be altered fast so be also prepared for some rain during the summer months.
Is there a porter service?There is no porter service available. Make sure you don’t carry unnecessary stuff with you.
What about the food, sleep and shower during our tour?The overnight stay and eating is done at guesthouses and local taverns and organized mountain huts. The guesthouses are available in single and double-bed rooms with private shower and wc.The mountain hut offer bunk beds at shared rooms. The rooms are heated only if the outside temperature gets low and warm blankets are provided. It is recommended to bring your own sleeping bag. Shower water is not available as there is shortage of water and enough only for the basic requirements.The typical meals offered are:Breakfast: bread, butter, honey, Nutella, cheese and coffee, tea, milkLunch and dinner: Meat dishes, hot meals like pasta with red sauce, beef or sausage, beef with potatoes, bean or lentil soup (vegetarian option), greek salad with feta cheese and bread.
Is there electrical supply up on the mountain?Power for charging your mobile phone and camera batteries can be supplied at night on the guesthouses. At the mountain hut however because of the high demand the availability of a socket might not be possible. We recommend the use of powerbanks for the charging of your devices.
