8 Prefectures - 8 Different Cultures - Traditions - Customs and Flavors
Prefecture of Grevena
Surrounded west, south and east of the mountains, in the center of mainland Greece, the prefecture of Grevena with the coldest climate of the country, is one of the most beautiful winter destinations not only of northern Greece but also of the whole country.
With features the wild beauty of Pindos and the green nature with its dense forests and the picturesque beauty of the traditional villages, the prefecture manages to charm every visitor. The ski resort of Vassilitsa, staying in beautiful hotels and guesthouses, as well as good food in restaurants and taverns impress.
In the northwestern part of Grevena, in the heart of Pindos, is the National Ski Center of Vassilitsa. The ski resort of Vassilitsa is one of the most beautiful ski resorts in Greece that keeps snow until spring. It has two air lifts totaling 1,800 meters. 3 lift slides, baby-lift 350m, 12 ski slopes 7.500m in total, the largest beginner's ski slope in Greece (3,860m), ski snowboard, ski schools, equipment rental shops, 2 day chalets and a guesthouse.
Perched on the slopes of the Pindos mountain range, surrounded by crystal clear streams and rivers, in dense forests of pine, fir, beech and Bosnian pines, in a truly magnificent landscape are built the vlach villages of Grevena, Samarina, Perivoli, Smixi, Avdella and Krania, belonging to the Prefecture of Grevena.
Every visitor can see and enjoy the natural beauty of the beautiful forests where various species of animals and birds live (bears, wolves, eagles) while on the slopes of the mountains there are endless pastures where flocks of sheeps and goats are grazed. At the same time the visitor can see the picturesque churches, the stone bridges, examples of the Vlachs' culture of the area.
Valia Calda is also one of the unique beauties of this county. The name Valia Calda in the Vlach dialect means "Warm Valley". They named it so why the valley does not keep the temperature of the surrounding mountain peaks of Pindos during the winter when the thermometer goes down many degrees below zero. The National Park of Southern Pindos - as is the official name of Valia Calda - is one of the most important in the country.
It is a unique place, surrounded by high peaks, with age-old Bosnian pines over 700 years old, with vast forests of black pine and beech, rare wildflowers, and rich fauna.
The natural paradise of Valia Calda has many gates. The area of Grevena, however, is the most suitable entrance to the mysteries of the core of the national park.
Prefecture of Ioannina
The Prefecture of Ioannina is one of the largest prefectures of Greece and occupies half the area of the geographical area of Epirus, located on the northwest side of the country.
The Prefecture of Ioannina in Epirus impresses with its imposing mountains, gorges, the lake and the mountain villages and it is ranked among the top winter destinations. The enchanting capital of the Prefecture, Ioannina, the picturesque Zagorochoria, Metsovo which isbuilt on the slopes of Pindos and Ancient Dodoni compose with all the other areas of the Prefecture, a place worth visiting and discovering.
The National Park of Vikos Aoos lies on the northern edge of the Pindos mountain range, including Vikos Gorge, Aoos Gorge and Tymfi Mountains. The bas relief of the area is characterized by the variations of the landscape with strong contrasts, where the steep gorges alternate with the calm slopes of the mountains and the grey of the rocks with the green of the forest. The morphology of the area is complemented by the traditional settlements of Zagori and the picturesque villages of Konitsa, which blend harmoniously with the terrain.
In this National Park, the most rare birds of prey and animals, the Greek fauna, such as the bear, the wolf, the jackal and the wild goat, find shelter. There are also 10 species of amphibians with more remarkable alpine newt (triturus alpestris), with Drakolimni as biotope, as well as 20 species of reptiles with more the characteristic the lizard of Pindos (algyroides nigropunctatus).
The Park offers its visitors unique opportunities for canoeing (Aoos), climbing (Astraka peak), mountaineering and walks on calm paths where one can observe nature.
Prefecture of Trikala
Elati, Pertouli, Kalampaka, Kastraki and many more are still the beautiful villages of the Prefecture of Trikala, which have been "stealing" our hearts in the last few years, especially in the winter when they are "decorated" in white and welcoming us for unforgettable moments. The visit to the monasteries of Meteora is a breathtaking experience and it is a “must”, while the Pertouli ski center is also worth to be visited.
Elati, a village in the firs as it is testified by its name (elato means fir in Greek), is the largest in the mountainous area of Trikala. It is built amphitheatrically, at a height of 950 meters, on the slopes of Koziakas, a mountain opposite Meteora. It is a base for many paths in the forest and for this reason it is a favorite destination for nature lovers and skiers, as the Pertouli Ski Center is nearby. Elati during the the last decades has a great tourist development, offering its guests a high standard of cuisine and flavors from its local traditional cuisine. It is undoubtedly the cosmopolitan village of the prefecture of Trikala!
The vast rocks of Meteora dominate in Kalampaka between the mountains of Koziakas and Antichasia. This majesty of nature reveals all its greatness for centuries now, as it is a unique geological phenomenon and an important monument of Orthodoxy.
Meteora, which has been characterized as the second Mount Athos (Holy Mountain), continues the monastic tradition for about six centuries.
At the view of the sacred rocks, the visitor is stunned by the impressive majesty of this gigantic stone complex. The ascetic huts on the rocks testify to the irrepressible presence of the first monks who devoted soul and body to God.
The first monasteries were built with much diligence and craftsmanship in the 14th century. Over the years, some of them have been reconstructed and others have undergone major repairs in order to complete them, giving this way their final architectural form. Since then they have been standing on top of the rocks, giving the impression that they are their natural finish.
In earlier years, the climb was done with scaffolding supported by beams embedded in the rocks, with a net, and a little later with rope ladders. Today pilgrims use the stairs that were carved on the rocks, thus ensuring a comfortable and safe climb to the monasteries.
Among the imposing bulks of Meteora is the picturesque village of Kastraki. The settlement has been characterized as a traditional monument of nature and a global cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO, along with the entire Meteora region. It is just 2 km from Meteora. It offers comfortable accommodation in hostels and hotels.
Prefecture of Karditsa
The Prefecture of Karditsa lies in the southwestern part of Thessaly. It borders north with the Prefecture of Trikala, eastwards with the Prefectures of Larissa and Fthiotida, south with the Prefectures of Fthiotida, Evritania and Etoloakarnania and west with the Prefectures of Arta and Trikala.
The county is crossed by rivers that spring from the lush mountains. The traveler who loves nature and search is enchanted. His attention is also drawn to the architecture of the houses in the villages and the monuments.
Apart from the city of Karditsa, which is the capital of the Prefecture, other major cities are the mountainous Mouzaki, the lowland Palamas and the Sofades.
Mouzaki is built at the foot of the Itamos Mountain and next to the torrent of Pamisos. Old houses do not exist as the village was burned by the Italians in 1943. The sights include the ruins of the Ancient Gomfoi, a city destroyed by Julius Caesar, because he did not declare it to him. Palamas has 6,000 inhabitants. The ancient mythological tradition says that the village was built by the Titans.
Karditsa is built on the western end of the fertile Thessalian plain and it is an administrative, economic, commercial and cultural center of the Prefecture. The large park "Pafshilypo", pedestrian streets and small pines groves between old and modern buildings give a unique color to the city.
A reference point for nature lovers and explorers is the city of Karditsa that offers a mosaic of experiences for all tastes. Equipped with an unparalleled natural beauty, excellent local cuisine, infrastructure for innumerable activities and direct access to historical attractions, it impresses every visitor.
Bicycle here is considered to be an integral part of its identity since it is historically considered to be the "official" means of transportation for all residents. The city's well-developed pedestrian streets and bicycle paths network has rightly given the name "Amsterdam of Greece" in the city. Either by owning a bicycle or by renting one at one of the municipal auto-hired stations, one can reach everywhere, even in the sights just outside the city like the forest of Paparantza, or "Chilia Dendra" (means Thousands Trees), a green place of recreation from the Ottoman years that remains popular.
One hour drive west of Karditsa is one of the top mountainous destinations in Greece: Plastiras Lake. The enchanting route around it, with the lush slopes and unpretentious landscapes makes a scenery that reminds of the Alps. Ideal for relaxation, Plastiras Lake is also offered for countless activities such as water sports, mountaineering, horseback riding, archery or paragliding, for the bold ones. Around the lake, 18 traditional villages offer generous hospitality, from the touristy developed Neochori and Kalyvia of Pezoula to the well-drained Kastania, the fairy-tale Neraida and the beautiful Belokomitis with the Educational Forest of same name.
Prefecture of Evrytania
Embraced by a dreamlike nature with dense forests of fir, plane trees and chestnut trees, full of rivers, streams protected by the proud mountains with snow-capped mountains, Evritania is a real gem of mainland Greece.
Its natural beauty is unique, but the air it breathes is one of the cleanest in the world.
Indeed, according to a survey by the UNESCO Commission of 1991, Evritania is considered to be one of the first five regions of the world in environmental purity and constitutes the "basis" for the measurement of research centers, since its infection is considered to be zero.
Karpenissi with its ski center and surrounding villages, as well as the monastery in Prousos are truly unique winter destinations.
The area was named after Evritus, a hero of Evritans of Etolia, the king of Ichalia.
Karpenissi is the capital of the prefecture, built on the southern slopes of Tymfristos - 960 - altitude, drowned in firs, pines and chestnut trees, Karpenissi is one of the most beautiful cities in mainland Greece.
Excursions to gently sloping slopes, rafting in crystal-clear rivers, canoeing to the tranquil waters of Kremasta Lake, crossing the canyons, strolling through the paved alleys of mountain villages, horseback riding, special mountain paths with jeeps, staying in atmospheric guesthouses.
The reason to visit Evritania is undoubtedly its mountainous traditional villages nestling on the forested slopes of Kaliakouda, Chelidona and Agrafa. Built in absolute harmony with the environment, made of stone and wood, they reveal the art and passion of the people who created them.
Charming, inaccessible and imposing, the "Panta Vrehi" (means always raining) canal is one of Evritania's most famous attractions. Its wild beauty and difficult access cause the visitor to discover it even more.
"Panta Vrehi" is a steep gorge where small waterfalls are formed in such a way that they create the feeling of rain on the one standing underneath. The varied vegetation and the rich fauna make this gorge one of the last perhaps untouched yet natural treasures of our planet.
An idyllic atmosphere that looks like a film of science fiction, beautiful colors, dense vegetation and the main ingredient water.
The gorge is formed by the Krikeliotis River and its waters are frozen and crystal clear and it is about 100 m long. Current waters and imposing waterfalls decorate the scenery, and with the rapids they give to the ground various shapes.
If you are an extreme sports enthusiast, the area is ideal for you - of course, at the time you choose to go. In the area there are special teachers for outdoor activities that will facilitate your access and will guide you safely.
The route leading to the gorge is stunning with the greatness of nature playing a leading role.
The neighboring villages, the verdant slopes, the towering firs, the ornate rocks hanging over the road and the green Kaliakouda Mountain will keep you busy during your exciting tour.
Prefecture of Fthiotida
In the center of mainland Greece is the Likno of Amphictyon, "Efhoros Fthia" (means Ferile Fthia. Fthia is a refion of Ancient Greece and homeland of Achilles). Landscapes of immense natural beauty and a multitude of historical monuments make up the mosaic of Fthiotida, ensuring an ideal combination - a challenge for tourists - with a variety of interests. Four thousand three hundred and sixty-eight square kilometers of land, alternating with lush mountain ranges, lakes, impressive gorges, hot springs and lacy beaches.
With a number of beautiful seaside villages and many mountainous settlements that are already growing, the prefecture of Fthiotida is gaining more and more friends. In addition to some historical and religious attractions, the visitor is eager to eat traditional roast meat at local taverns and listen to stories about the hero Aris Velouchiotis and the Gorgopotamos Bridge.
Ancient monuments, monasteries and churches of the Byzantine and post-Byzantine period enrich the natural relief on this important piece of Greek land, which is also the transport hub between Northern and Southern Greece.
The beautiful nature of Fthiotida offers both winter and summer tourism. The traveler can enjoy the winter here, skiing in the snowy mountains or excursions to the dense forests, while in the summer, the cool green of the mountain and the idyllic blue of the sea. A place that promises an unforgettable holiday, Fthiotida, has another advantage: the famous thermal springs, where thousands of visitors resort for relief and treatment each year.
Beautiful beaches for all tastes and for every mood are located on the side of the prefecture of Fthiotida, which is washed by the waters of N. Evoikos and the Maliakos Gulf. Beaches with sand or pebbles, windy coves and scenic harbors promise travelers the tranquility of the sea view, enjoyable swimming in its clear waters, fresh fish and fishing opportunities on the sandy and rocky shores.
A trip on the coast of the prefecture could start from the historic town of Larymna, a few kilometers to the right of the Athens-Lamia highway. It has beautiful, undisturbed beaches and the island of Lagonissi (very close to the coast), the transition to which is made with boat. In Larymna is also the famous Breakwater, which dates back to the 6th and 4th centuries BC.
Prefecture of Fokida
The archaeological site of Delphi made it famous, but the prefecture of Fokida has other interesting and beautiful places. Ideal for agrotourism and with developed tourist infrastructure, it satisfies anyone who is there. Itea, Galaxidi, the historic Gravia and the picturesque mountain villages of the prefecture scattered in the forests are ideal nearby destinations for excursions.
The capital of the prefecture, Amfissa, is a picturesque town, built amphitheatrically at the foot of Mount Elatos, on the edge of a vast olive grove. It is the commercial and economic center of the prefecture, preserving its traditional color.
Among the sights of the city, it is worth visiting the castle of Oria with relics of all the rhythms of construction, the Byzantine metropolitan church of Evangelistria with frescoes by the famous painter Spyros Papaloukas, the Byzantine temple of Sotiros, the houses of the Revolutionary leaders Diovouniotis and Panourgias, and "Lykotrypa" (means wolf hole), a tomb of Mycenaean period carved into rock.
Galaxidi is a seaside, historic and picturesque town. It played a major role in the Greek Revolution, as it had one of the most powerful naval fleets. The picturesque harbor, many mansions and churches give the city a special color. Galaxidi is characterized as a traditional and preserved settlement and is distinguished by the architecture of the captains.
Gravia is a village known for the historic battle that was given there by Odysseus Androutsos and his stout-hearted men on May 8, 1821, in order to prevent the advance of Omer Vryonis to the Peloponnese. The anniversary of the battle is celebrated in the first half of May with spectacular events. Visit the bust of the hero Odysseus Androutsos, the recently restored historical inn, the remarkable monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the community museum in Kastelli, with archaeological finds, icons, manuscripts and local costumes.
The archaeological site of Delphi is one of the most important centers of attraction of foreign tourists in our country, and it also attracts many Greek exiles. The settlement of Delphi, the area where the most important religious center of antiquity was founded and flourished, is built amphitheatrically in a unique location in Parnassos, offering an impressive panoramic view. The Ancient Greeks believed that Delphi was the point where the earth touches the divine, the navel of the earth.
Itea is a beautiful seaside town. Here Easter is one of the most famous in Fokida, with lambs being baked in the streets, completely traditional. In the summer you can enjoy the sun and the sea on the wonderful beaches of Trocadero and Miami, which have been awarded with the Blue Flag, as well as the beaches of Xenias and Evangelistria.
In Fokida, with its tremendous historical and archaeological interest, the visitor will travel to the glorious past of the area. It will enjoy moments of rest and relaxation in the beautiful seaside resorts. He will escape from the beaten track and experience unique experiences.
Prefecture of Etoloakarnania
The largest prefecture of Greece, with many years of history and culture, with many archaeological sites and many historical monuments, rich and wild natural beauty, is perhaps one of the most interesting geographic areas of our country.
The historical Messolonghi, the picturesque and tourist Nafpaktos, the beautiful and hospitable seaside settlements of Mytikas, Astakos and Amfilochia in north, the enchanting Etoliko a town built literally in the sea as well as the villages of Agrinio deserve a visit and exploration by those who love the discovery of home-grown beauty.
Lagoons, rivers, lakes, vast valleys with virgin forests, valleys with rare wildflowers, gorges of seashores and crystal clear seas are some other natural elements that characterize the prefecture. .
It is also noteworthy that the Prefecture of Etoloakarnania gathers most of the Castles from each other one in Greece! The castle of Nafpaktos, the fortress of Messolonghi, the castle of Vonitsa, the castle of Paravola, the castle of Kechropoula, the castle of Griva and some smaller ones, all gathered here giving the mark of this place’s history and charm.
Of the "legendary" rivers of Etoloakarnania, which is worth mentioning, is Evinos, which offers a range of activities from the sports and adventure enthusiasts.
He is known from Mythology, the passage of Hercules and Centaurus Nessos and took his name from King Evinos, who drowned in his waters.
In Bania Inn, operate the Hellenic Federation of Canoes, traditional taverns, tourist accommodation and companies that organize outdoor activities (rafting, canoeing, kayaking, climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, archery, trekking.
Evinos River is a beautiful, easy and pleasant river for beginners and not only. Recently, it has emerged as one of the top 10 rafting destinations in Greece, as the experience of downhill rides reveals incredible images of nature, gurgling waters, the biodiversity of riparian areas, as well as cultural ornaments such as stone arched bridges.