ANO PEDINA-MONODENDRI-VITSA (6,2 km)
A trail to discover the nature and culture of Zagori
A gentle hiking trail for the whole family, connecting three famous Zagorochoria villages and giving the opportunity to get to know the nature and culture of the region.
The route in brief:
Ano Pedina (Evaggelistria monastery) → Monodendri (view of the Vikos gorge from the monastery of Ag. Paraskevi) → Vitsa
The route in detail:
Our hike starts at Ano Pedina, the beautiful village with traditional architecture. We head towards the fortress-like monastery of Evaggelistria with its unique hagiographies depicting ancient Greek philosophers and historians.
We continue on the path towards Monodendri. We will walk in the footsteps of the farmers and learn about their centuries-old habits and the biodiversity of the area.
Upon arrival at the impressive Monodendri with its well-preserved cobbled streets and mansions, we will come in contact with the famous Zagorian architecture and the use of stone, and later we will stop at the beautiful square to taste the famous flour pie of Zagori and get our strength back. We also have the opportunity to visit the Rizarios Crafts School and the Exhibition Centre.
From the square we take the path to the monastery of Ag. Paraskevi. Built on the edge of the cliff, it gives us the opportunity to admire the unique view of the impressive Vikos Gorge and to get to know this unique geological phenomenon. Also, in the church there are some excellent frescoes, one of the few surviving sets of the early 15th century in Epirus, while inside the monastery we will meet young people who continue the art of hagiography.
We then take the path to our final destination. The short route through the vegetation will lead us to Vitsa, an impressive settlement built on two mahalades (neighbourhoods) with beautiful mansions and an impressive square, an ideal place to get information about the history, culture and nature of Zagori.
Meeting Point: Ano Pedina
Finishing point: Vitsa
Level: Easy (for the whole family and all experience levels)
Duration: Half day (2-3 hours)
Included: EcoMuseum escort/Snack-pita at Monodendri/Transfer back from Vitsa to Ano Pedina
