Tzoumerka

A ride of unparalleled beauty in the narrowest part of a wild river said to have cursed his way through the mountains looking for his beautiful sister Salavria who had gone missing; yearning for a god in Olympus, according to an ancient Greek myth, (its name means shattering /crushing). We begin our river ride at the 19th century Politsa Bridge after we get ourselves fully equipped with specialized rafting equipment. No previous rafting experience needed, the river being Class III. The canyon is 700 meters high in places and there is a moss-covered cliff-cave of astounding beauty and then the 14-meter Klifki waterfall, where we can dive in the ice-cold waters. The ride ends after we pass below the impressive 20-metre high one-arch Plaka Bridge, one of the best stone bridges in the Balkans, recently reconstructed after a catastrophic flash flood. Alpine Zone base is a few meters after the bridge, and its staff will be waiting, offering traditional syrup sweets, water and washing room/changing room facilities.

Perched on the rugged mountain peaks, like eagles’ nests, the villages of the Tzoumerka mountain range are considered to be part of an area of outstanding natural beauty. You will be enchanted by the intricate mountain terrain and crystal-clear rivers. Traditional settlements, as well as the numerous churches and monasteries, bear witness to its former glory. Monastery of Kipina is located over the gorge of the river Kalarrytikos, at the entrance of the cave of the vertical rock is built one of the most impressive monasteries in Epirus. It is the Monastery of Kipina, which is said that it was named thus by the gardens (kipos in Greek) that its monks grew in the surrounding area. It was founded in 1212 by Archbishop Grigorios. The monastery flourished during the 18th century and its monks were active in social work. During the Turkish occupation, according to tradition, there was a secret school operated there. It is a men’s monastery, dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary but it celebrates on Bright Friday, feast day of Zoodochos Pigi (Life Giving Source). Kalarrytes is a village is built at an elevation of 1200m and it is known as the “gem” or the “eagle’s nest” of Epirus. It is populated mostly by Aromanians and has been officially characterized as a traditional settlement. The village used to be the centre of traditional processing of gold and silver. The distinguished goldsmithing businessmen families of Voulgari and Nessis come from Kalarrytes. Pramanta Village is situated at an altitude of 840 m., at the foot of the imposing peak of Stroggoula, behind which lies the mountain range of Tzoumerka. It’s at the centre of Tzoumerka and now a mountainous holiday resort, as the visitor can find everything there, from hotels, restaurants, bakeries, cafés and nightlife to a modern health centre, pharmacy, a centre of environmental education, and more. In this traditional village that embraces modern lifestyle, the visitor has access to any kind of information one may need. It is worth visiting the village’s central square, with its centenary plane tree and the famous fountain of Arapis in front of the prestigious church of Saint Paraskevi. Near Pramanta village, we visit the Anemotrypa Cave, with its three small lakes and colorful stalagmites in shades of grey, bronze and white. The stone bridge of Plaka at Arachthos River, the largest single-arch bridge in the Balkans and third in Europe, was demolished in 2015 by the surging river waters. It has now been restored and stands once again in its proper place. It is an important historical monument, and a breathtakingly magnificent sight. It was built in 1866, a masterpiece of architecture, 61m long., 21m high, 3,20m wide at the highest point with a 40 m. central arch. Tzoumerka viewpoint An amazing viewpoint with a breathtaking view, all Tzoumerka mountainous range in front and below on a huge cliff the ravine of Arachthos River

Experience the rugged beauty of North Tzoumerka on this sightseeing tour. Admire the breathtaking views as you visit the Kipina Monastery, the villages of Kalarrites and Pramanta, the Anemotripa Cave, and more on this day-trip. The first stop is the Arachthos River, the location of the famous and historic stone bridge of Plaka. Then, head to Katarraktis village and to Tzoumerka where you can enjoy views of the waterfalls as well as a break for a coffee, tea, or juice. Next is Anemotripa Cave, a magical place where a river crosses the whole cave. Stop at Pramanta and take a walk in the village and admire the scenery before heading on to the mountains. Built in the 13th century on the side of the mountain. Kipina Monastery is on of the most spectacular in Greece. After Kipina Monastery, visit the traditional village of Kalarrites and enjoy some tasty dishes in Napoleon’s traditional tavern (at your own expense). From Kalarrites, head to Tsimpovo and admire this beautiful spot in the middle of Arachthos Canyon.

Discover Zagori's striking natural landscape on a private Jeep tour. See its soaring mountains, deep gorges, clear rivers, and architectural heritage at your own pace with your own local guide. Learn about the local, cultural, geological, and architectural heritage en route. Begin your adventure by driving to the picturesque valley of West Zagori, passing by Aristi, and admiring the evolving landscape en route. Stop at the Voidomatis River, one of the cleanest rivers in Europe, where you can plunge into its icy cold water, should you wish to, and then climb to the villages of Papigo. Head on to visit Ovires Rogovo, natural pools nestled in a narrow canyon, before heading to the village of Mikro Papigo. Then, turn back to cross a 1,090-meter pass to reach central Zagori, where a magnificent view of the Vikos Gorge at its deepest unfurls itself in front of your eyes. Marvel at the world's deepest gorge before heading back to your starting point.