There are locations and attractions in Greece that, although they have been distinguished worldwide, some may not know them. Imposing and sometimes difficult to approach, they are worth visiting because they offer you unique experiences and images that you will not often see in your life. A place that captivates you with its beauty and causes awe is the so-called Grand Canyon of Greece. A gorge that has entered the Guinness Book of World Records and every visit there is a different experience. Depending on where you approach it from. The reason for the Vikos Gorge in Epirus and specifically in Zagorochoria.
We were there and felt what it's like to say good morning and hear your echo four or five times. If you don't live it, it's hard to understand what we're talking about.
Enjoying views of Greece's Grand Canyon, Vikos Gorge
Based in the village of Monodendri, we explored within four days as much as we could in the area. From the bridges and rivers to the surrounding villages and the impressive stone forest that few know exists in Greece. You can see more about the stone forest Here. One of the stops we were told (and they were right) that we should do was at Vikos Gorge. The spectacle is eerie and unique not only in Greece but throughout the world.
Vikos Gorge, therefore, has entered the Guinness Book of World Records as it is the deepest to the width of the gorge in the world. And he has held this record for 15 years. If you refer to the 2005 edition of the book, you will see that the Vikos Gorge at one point has a depth of 900 and a width of 1100 meters. Something that is not the case with any other canyon in the world. We approached Oxia to see the Gorge and came out on a balcony that put us almost inside the Gorge. I trifle mountains, greenery, and stone. A unique sight.
The other location where you can choose to see the Grand Canyon of Greece is Beloi. We just chose the location Oxia which was closer to the village where we lived. We highly recommend Monodendri as a base as it is a very organized and picturesque village and from there you can go to the famous sights of the area.
Don't miss:
If you have a couple of extra days at your disposal, do not forget to visit the villages of Mikro and Megalo Papigo. It is only 40 minutes away and is considered one of the most picturesque villages in the area. They have very nice restaurants to eat and a unique view of the towers of Astraka, an imposing part of the mountain.
Do alternative activities in the area. Apart from hiking, ask how you can go rafting in the crystal clear river of Voidomatis. In autumn you will enjoy a magical walk in a park with orange-yellow leaves that contrast with the turquoise waters of the river. Don't be intimidated by the cold water, you'll wear a uniform.
Take a mini gastronomic trip to Zagorochoria enjoying traditional pies, local meat, and recipes with ingredients cooked from the garden. The flour pie or pasta pie as they call it is one of the musts.
If you choose to stay in Monodendri it is worth visiting the church of Agia Paraskevi. You leave the car in an opening and walk down the path to get there. In a place of absolute calm and serenity.
Take a walk to get to know the stone bridges of the area built by the craftsmen of the time. Those who went around the world and filled it with ornaments with their art.
What is certain is that the days will not seem enough and you will soon return to Zagorochoria. After all, we are talking about 46 villages, each with its beauty. So you can start from Vikos Gorge and organize future excursions to discover all the secrets in this corner of Greece.
