Explore Zagorochoria in February: Your Winter Escape Guide

Zagorochoria in February

Zagorochoria In February: a Winter-escape to Epirus.

Visiting Zagorochoria (the Zagori villages) in February gives an opportunity to have a unique winter experience. Summer brings with it hikers and rafters, but in the winter the cluster of the 46 stone villages turn into a mystical and dark fantasy. It is an opportunity to relax, enjoy the quietness of mountains and cuddle before the fire.

The following is all you need to know about a trip in February.

The Atmosphere & Weather

It is deep winter in Epirus in February. It may be unforeseeable, yet breathtaking.

  • Temperatures: It will be cold, with daytime temperatures of 49 -9 o C, and nighttime temperatures down to below freezing, usually -1 o C to -3 o C.
  • Snow: It snows a great deal in February, particularly in the high villages, like Papigo and Monodendri. Although it may not be snowing when you stay there, then probably you will find snow capped mountains in Mount Tymfi.
  • Vibe: There is a smell of chimney smoke in the air. Villages are not so busy as it is during Christmas and it has a realistic touch.

Where to Stay

During winter, you should prefer to visit villages which are plowed regularly and have large variety of places to eat thus will not be forced to drive late in the night.

1. Monodendri

One of the most popular and easy to reach villages is Monodendri. It has numerous hotels and tavernas and is the first point with a visit to Vikos Gorge with no long hiking.

Sightseeing: It is a small stroll to Agia Paraskevi Monastery that offers a spectacular view of the gorge.

2. Megalo Papigo

Megalo Papigo is arguably the most renowned village. It is most picturesque, stone mansions against the theatrical Towers of Astraka- massive rock cliffs.

Why go: It is cosmopolitan, boasting of good cafes and restaurants.

Observation: The highway to Papigo is zigzag and mountainous. It is usually left unclosed, though tell your snow chains are in your trunk.

3. Aristi

Aristi is a perfect place to explore as it is situated at a crossroad. Below Monodendri or Papigo in elevation implies that the roads are generally not challenging in case of a deteriorated weather.

Bonus: it is quite near the river Voidomatis.

4. Kipi

Kipi is referred to as the capital of bridges. With your stay here you are beside the most archetypal stone bridges of the region.

Top Things to Do in February

1. Hunt for Stone Bridges

The stone bridges by Zagori are known to have arches. During winter, when rivers are rushing, they become even more dramatic to shoot.

Kokkoris Bridge: It is located on the main road between Dilofo and Kipi and it is impossible to miss it.

Plakidas (Three Arched) Bridge: A little way along the road of Kipi, the construction of this bridge is composed of stone and has a shape of a caterpillar.

2. View the Vikos Gorge

It is dangerous to traverse the entire gorge during the winter because of high water flows and slippery tracks. Rather, push to the perspectives.

Oxia Viewpoint: An excellent vantage point, a few minutes drive beyond Monodendri over the “Stone Forest”, is a frightening glimpse of the ravine.

Beloi Viewpoint: Reachable via Vradeto. Feb the dirt road can be muddy or snowy. Ask locals before going.

3. The Voidomatis River (Walk)

To the bridge between Papigo and Aristi. The crystal-clear, ice-cold water calls upon a quick, flat stroll in the river-bank under plane trees–no heavy stuff necessary.

4. Outdoor Adventure Activities

With the appropriate clothing you are able to participate in an outdoor activity even during cold weather.

Winter Rafting (Aristi): This has been one of the most common activities in the area. The river Voidomatis is also calm (Class I-II) and is supposedly safe enough to be used by beginners. Firms across the bridge at Aristi offer wet tops and wet suits that allow one to play in the snowy canyon on the water.

Horseback Riding: There is great horseback riding available in Aristi and Papigo stables that take one through the forest trails without ploughing through mud and deep snows.

Winter is unpredictable and thus it is always safe and enjoyable to get a professional guide.

Alpine Zone: They are based on river activities, they provide the rafting tours all throughout the year and it is situated on the base next to the Voidomatis bridge.

Trekking Hellas (Epirus): a good 4×4 Jeep touring place where one never has to fear icy roads.

Zagori outdoor activities: Gives the local knowledge on the hiking trails.

Booking Tip: It is easy to book online but the least effort is to request your hotel accommodations to do it. The majority of the guesthouses are related with guides who will pick you at your breakfast table.

Activities, Guided Tours and More!

What to Eat (Gastronomy)

Zagori winter food is cozy, developed, and warming.

Alevropita (Flour Pie): Thin, crispy batter made of feta cheese not a thick phyllo pie as would be expected.

Gigantes: Spinach and herbs baked.

Game Meat: Find wild boar stew or sausage.

Tsipouro: The local spirit. During the winter period, it is usually necessary to warm up after the walk.

Practical Tips for February

Car Rental: You will need a car; a 4×4 or an SUV would be the most suitable in terms of its traction.

Snow Chains: It is obligatory to have chains attached to the car whenever snowing in the mountains of Greece. Teach yourself to wear them in advance.

Dress: Pack clothes, a waterproof jacket, solid walking shoes (cobblestones may get slippery when wet), warm wool sweaters, hat and gloves.

Driving: There are too many twists (hairpin bends) on the roads. Slow down on the road, and in the morning, since the black ice can be present.

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