BRADETO-BELOI-VRADETO STEPS-KAPESOVO (7,7 km)
On the edge of the cliff! Breathtaking monuments of nature and man.
A gentle hiking route for all levels of experience. It joins two famous Zagorochoria villages through Skala, this outstanding preserved monument of local architecture, and offers breathtaking views of the spectacular Vikos Gorge.
The route in brief:
Vradeto → Beloi → Vikos Gorge → Vradeto Steps → Kapesovo
The route in detail:
Our route starts from the eastern slopes of Tymfi and Vradeto, also known as the “balcony of Zagori”, as it is the highest village of the area (1,340 m). We will get to know the special geology of the area, which, combined with the microclimate, contributed to its attraction for the founding farmers of the settlement.
From the village, through a flower-lined path and following scattered stone towers, we head towards Beloi, a unique natural outcrop, to admire safely the unique view of the Vikos Gorge and learn about this impressive geological phenomenon.
We return to the village square, from where the path starts that will lead us to the famous Vradeto Steps, this unique monument of folk architecture. Built in the 18th century on the edge of the cliff, it was until recently the main access of the village to the rest of Zagori. This unique example of the harmony between the natural and man-made environment offers a unique route through the nature and culture of Zagori.
Our final destination is Kapesovo, a beautiful settlement that emerged at the end of the 16th century from the merge of smaller neighbouring settlements. The robust agricultural economy and trade endowed the village with a special history that is reflected in its landscape and impressive architecture, making it an ideal place for our acquaintance with Zagorian architecture. Special mention should be made of the School of Kapesovite painters who decorated numerous churches and monasteries in mainland Greece with hagiographies. We will and our tour with traditional Epirus dishes that we will taste in the beautiful village square.
Meeting Point: Vradeto
Finishing point: Kapesovo
Level: Easy (for the whole family and all experience levels)
Duration: Half day (2-3 hours)
Included: EcoMuseum escort/Lunch in Kapesovo/Transfer from Kapesovo to Vradeto