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| From traditional villages nestled in the spectacular Pindos Mountains to sun-blessed Corfu, where medieval paths meander through olive groves above a shimmering cobalt sea, we discover Greece's immense natural beauty as we hike, explore, and indulge in the good life of this ancient land of the gods. Zagoria's isolated villages are striking with their stone-built houses, fortified walls, and cobbled streets, and we hike between them on trails between towering gray and ochre rock faces and over wooded hillsides brightened with wildflowers. In Corfu, a green and mountainous isle in the Ionian Sea, we ramble along breathtaking coastal paths to tiny harbors and tranquil coves and hike up into remote highlands dotted by fortress ruins. All the while, we enjoy the chance to relax in sun-warmed village squares, sip tsipouro (the apéritif of northern Greece), dine in cozy tavernas, and enjoy the hospitality for which the Greeks are renowned. |
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1-2 Athens/Ioannina/Zogoria
From the picturesque village of Tsepélovo, our introduction to Zagoria begins with a hike to the high village of Vradeto (4,700') and a descent on a 17 th century stone staircase to lovely Kapésovo.
3-4 Vitsa/Kipi
Spectacular stone bridges of double and even triple arches span the upper reaches of the Vikos Gorge, and we cross several on our hikes. Following cobbled trails along the floor of the gorge, we cross a 10 th century stone bridges and ascend to delightful Vitsa, with its cascade of stone houses and lovely village square shaded by a huge plane tree. Those who want to can hike to the nearby Agia Paraskevi Monastery. The next day, we hike to the handsome village of Kípi and onward up stone steps to atmospheric Koukoúli, where the absence of motor traffic evokes a past era.
5-6 Voidhomatis Springs/Papingo
Our morning hike takes us to a natural spring for a swim in sun-warmed waters and a picnic lunch before we ascend to the spectacular setting of Papingo, nestled beneath limestone towers overlooking the gorge. The next day, we hike high up through juniper scrub and pastures to Astraka Refuge, (6,400') and gleaming Dragon Lake (6,800'), tucked into the northern escarpment of one of the high peaks of the Pindos.
7-10 Dodona/Corfu/Depart
We explore the huge 3rd century BC amphitheater at Dodona, then head to enchanting Corfu. On our hikes into unspoiled terrain above the piercing blue Mediterranean, along gorgeous, sage-scented coastal footpaths, and through Corfu's northwest mountains, we enjoy the best Corfu has to offer. We stay in Corfu Town, the elegant island capital, with its massive forts above the harbor, and sample some of the island's most beautiful beaches. Depart on Day 10.
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