Vikos Gorge & Dragonlake
€245 per person
The best of Pindus on a 2-day trip
The Zagori area is a unique morphology to Greece sculpted through the millennia by natural forces and nothing highlights this better than the Vikos Gorge and the alpine area of mount Tymfi where the Dragonlake is located. Hiking underneath the sheer walls for the gorge and ascending all the way to the Dragonlake is an experience not to be missed. Guided by a photographer nonetheless to ensure that not only you return home full of memories but your pictures look the part as well.
See also: Pindus Panorama
Trip Highlights
Destination
Departure
Thessaloniki or MonodendriDeparture Time
Approximately 8:00 amReturn Time
flexibleDress Code
Comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat, sun-cream, jacket, >500ml water.Included
AccommodationBreakfastPersonal GuideTransportationTypical SouvenirNot Included
Beverages and snacksMeals
1
Day 1
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.
2
Day 2
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. From there we visit the famous Dragonlake and explore the surrounding area enjoying the alpine views of Tymfi before we return to the hut for dinner. The hike ends at Mikro Papingo after a relaxing descent from the mountain refuge.
Where is the meeting point and when?The tour starts from Monodendri village and ends in Mikro Papingo in Zagorochoria aera. Transfers from Thessaloniki and back can be arranged 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 (20-40L). You will need to carry all your stuff for the 2 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.
- 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.
