The Vikos Gorge and the Zagori villages

The Vikos Gorge, in the Pindus Mountains of Epirus, Northern Greece, lies on the southern slopes of Mount Tymfi. With a length of approximately 20km, a depth ranging from 450m to 1350m and a width of 400m to a few metres at its narrowest point, the Vikos Gorge is one of the deepest canyons in the world.

Powerful rapids, a rich fauna and flora and breathtaking caves and cliffs. At every turn in this beautiful landscape the grandeur of nature can be seen. Behind Mount Mitsikeli lie the 46 traditional Zagoria villages (the Zagorochoria), which emphasise the natural and rugged beauty of the region and enchant visitors with their impressive architecture. In addition to Vikos (the village of the same name), the beautiful villages of Monodendri, Megalo and Mikro (large and small) Papigo, Aristi and Vitsa are all villages with a pure mountain atmosphere, rich history, old churches and cobbled streets.

This harmonious blend of nature and culture has earned the Zagorochoria recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, praised for its distinctive traditional stone architecture, which reflects the shared Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

The Vikos Gorge can be walked in two or three sections with or without a guide: Monodendri north to Vikos - Vikos to Papingo - and Monodendri south to Kipi and its beautiful traditional stone bridges. The trails pass through enchanting villages and beautiful landscapes with spectacular views and a visit to Vikos and the Zagorochoria is highly recommended.