Zagorohoria: The best suggestions for accommodation and food

The mountain ... confederation of 46 villages of Zagoria is a place that enchants!
The lovely stone houses, the picturesque taverns, the worked stone dominates everywhere and their unique environment will invite us near everything! ...


                                       

Aspraggeloi



 Ideal base of operations


It is the first village heading for Central Zagori, at an altitude of 1,000 m., On the slopes of Mitsikeli. It is also the seat of the municipality Zagoria.
First mentioned in the 14th century, showed strong growth in the 16th and 17th c., While by 1927 called "Dovras" or "Dovra '. During the Occupation, the village was burned by the Nazis on July 15, 1943, in retaliation for the resistance movement in the region.At first glance, the Asprangeli not give the impression that you are in what we call "typical" Zagori, with important difference that the village is accessible in all points of the car - but that does not mean lacking in charm.In the central square there stands the church of Virgin Mary, which, although relatively new ..., 1915, is in the traditional architectural style of the area.Also, the church of St. Nicholas (1776), and the old monastery of Dovras of 1600. The current picture of the settlement, which increasingly improves, due to the residents but also the municipal authority, which tries to give Asprangeli lost their glamor.Wonderful guesthouses housed in restored or renovated mansions and offer guests ideal accommodation.

 Where to stay:• In one of the most beautiful parts of the village, the Aeolian is a stone-built luxury residential complex.With names of the five daughters of the mythical god of the winds Aeolus thoughtful storey houses of 75 square meters. They are fully equipped and offer a sense of familiarity. Each has its own character and can accommodate a family or a large group (2-6 people).The spacious bedrooms, ornate ceilings, handcrafted rustic furniture, fireplaces, the presence of stone and wood in the decoration, all exude Zagori nobility. (www.aiolides.com)

  •  In Melition, with 10 rooms. Stone house with wooden floors and traditional furniture, exudes warmth and aristocratic. In plus the space next to the fireplace.
  • In one of the five luxury rooms of the traditional guesthouse Freedom, also an old stone house, Zagori aesthetics. Tasteful rooms, with many amenities!

Where to eat:

• The Montaza is a place that works just half years and has already established itself as one of the best proposals for coffee, drinks and food at all Zagoria. Earth tones, touches of vintage, retro photographs give a nostalgic and simultaneously fitting the character region.From morning coffee and fantastic breakfast with local products until late at night for a drink by the fireplace and ... quality sounds from vinyl, Montaza justify the reputation he has won. As for the menu has traditional cuisine with fresh ingredients.Steamy soups, stews, homemade pies, local meats are some of them that can be enjoyed here. Daily from 09: 00-but gone.



 Dilofo

 
Authentic Zagori





Dilofo is a sublime village, which has retained 100% of traditional character, a fact which contributed to the nomination of a landmark.Among other things, the passage of cars banned from the village - so I should be required to park at the entrance. Located at an altitude of 800 m. and the older they know as Sopotseli (in Slavic means "land of many waters").In the late 19th-arch. 20th century, many of its residents became rich trading in Egypt.Impresses the cobbled square with the perennial plane tree, but the biggest mansion in all Zagoria, the mansion Makropoulos, with a height of 13.50 m.Although generally kept away from the crowds ... now gets loud on the tourist map and this has contributed two wonderful hostels launched last year, the Althea and Terrace. You can also see the Church of the Assumption, and walk on trails!

 

Where to stay:


• The Althea is set in beautiful stone house. 4 suites and the studio is very comfortable, with elegant furnishings and all have a fireplace and impression taking their sweet colors. Great is the lower hall, with the café and restaurant. Here wood and stone, in conjunction with elaborate ceilings create an atmosphere in a "holding".The restaurant cooks dishes with local ingredients, honoring the Zagori culinary tradition. A tsipouro or wine by the fireplace is magic! Price: From € 70 / double. Open all year. The restaurant daily 12: 00-but gone. From € 10 / person. (Dilofo, tel. 25 905 26530, mob. 6944 6843604, www.althaiahotel.com)• The atrium, roofed in stone mansion of the 17th c., Is perfectly integrated in the picturesque village.To small hotel, boutique-logic, the main square, it is one of the few Zagori mansion with indoor courtyard, hence its name. The 4 rooms and the suite have a strong personality.Wooden floors, traditional bass, fireplaces, luxurious furniture, romantic headboards, ornate ceilings, are some of their characteristics.Excellent the lounge, where we taste homemade breakfast (which is now certified as "Greek Breakfast"). From € 80. (Dilofo, tel. 26530 25902, 6974 125405, 6948 878793, 6945 853400, www.aithrio.eu)• Mansion Dilofo. Will open after December 10, renovated. (Tel. 26530 22455, www.dilofo.com)• In one of the romantic rooms of the hostel Gaia, an old mansion. From € 50. (Tel. 26530 22570, www.gaia-dilofo.gr)Where to eat:• In the traditional Sopotseli the square (operating since 1901), with grilled, soups, pies and stews. From € 15. Daily from 12:00. (Tel. 26530 22 629)• In the cafe-tavern Stone will taste dishes cooked with care from traditional recipes. (Tel. 26530 22600)• Day dishes and local recipes at the restaurant Althea. (Tel. 26530 25 905)



Aristi (excellent)

 
The most excellent ... of Zagoria!



Built at an altitude of 650 m., In a central position in terms of walking distance from many Zagoria, and stunning views of the impressive cliffs of Astraka, Aristi is one of the largest villages of Zagoria.

In recent years it has developed into one of the most popular destinations in the area, even claiming a share and the famous Papigo - which, after all, to get, you have to go through here.

The area has experienced periods of great prosperity, which is today testified by stone mansions, the old fountain, churches, monasteries.Mild fortunately tourist boom of recent Aristi not altered its picturesque.Arriving at the village, welcomes us the imposing bell tower of the church of the Assumption, which has very valuable frescoes Kapesovo hagiographers, while natural stands the tree of the central square.In 200 years (!) Coffee, one of the most photographed places around Zagori, now houses the tavern In Aristi. Taverna Pantelis (as in most known) is a reason for someone to climb up here.After lunch we descend Mesochori café for coffee or, why not, a homemade rakomelo. For a decade a benchmark and stands out for its friendly atmosphere of.For our nights, we have to choose between beautiful guesthouses and hotels, which also dominates the classic gray Zagori stone and hospitality. From our favorite picks, the Aberratio.

Where to stay:


• The Aberratio Boutique Hotel impresses with its excellent, even for the high standars of the area site.The central stone manor house gives a strong sense, which is why the warmth is something that one feels from the first moment. The large monastery table in reception, the worked stone, the large wooden staircase, fireplaces, all are decorated with care and reflect the taste of the owners.The 12 rooms have high ceilings, with earthy tones, expensive linens, luxurious bathrooms, designer toiletries. Another surprise, however, waiting for us in the morning, in the elegant restaurant with rich breakfast with local products! From € 100 / double. (Aristi, tel. 42 202 26530, mob. 6945 164118, www.aberratio.com)• Luxurious Aristi Mountain Resort, with panoramic views. Since the strengths and attentive Salvia restaurant. In plus, the fully equipped spa of! From € 109. (Tel. 26530 41330, www.aristi.eu)• In one of the cozy (and renovated) rooms adventure resort Gamila Rocks, known for the activities organized by the unique natural landscape of Zagori. From € 75. (Tel. 26530 41070, www.gamilarocks.com)• In Artsistas Houses in the heart of the village. With the independent houses, it resembles a miniature village, pleasantly surprising with earthy tones and aesthetics! From € 95. (Tel. 26530 41908, www.artsista.gr)


Where to eat:


• From our favorite corners in Zagori is wonderful café bar Mesochori. In the central square of Aristi, in stone building, honors tradition as the "setting" of and with its warm hospitality.Impresses the sofa by the fireplace, the best spot to moor for a local drink, raki or rakomelo. Pareistiko climate, relaxed music, and more intense, when the mood requires, while there are also special events, with live music! Daily from 10: 30-but gone. (Mob. 184 500 6972)• In In Aristi, historic cafe that was a tavern and attracts many people in the region. Here we will try to Zagori pies and freshly homemade potatoes until cooked. (Tel. 26530 42103)Did you know that ...• The old name is High "Artsista"?• Aristi at the limit of the National Park Vikos-Aoos?• The village celebrates on August 29 (St. John) and the Life-Giving Spring?
 

Upper / Lower Pedina

 
Small but beautiful!
 
Built at an altitude of 900 m., With only 50 residents, with trump easy access from Ioannina and its central location in relation to the surrounding villages of Zagori, Ano Pedina have not declared accidental traditional settlement.Amazing stone mansions, many of which have been renovated and converted into luxury hotels, taverns cared for food, one hundred percent Zagori atmosphere, great attention to tradition, all these have made this village ... standard. Heard for the first time about 25 years ago, the hostel House of Orestes, in one of the oldest mansions Over Mahala.Today, accommodation suggestions numbering no 10s (!), While in taverns with grilled and stewed added up creative cuisine proposals. All, however, the same standards really Zagori hospitality.Of the main attractions of the village is Lamprideios Housekeeping School and -epivlitiko- monastery of Annunciation.Going up the stone path, the church of St. Demetrius, the old school and the stone bell tower on the central square are some of the points that will definitely watch the visitor ... The aroma of wood burning fireplaces is mixed with air and mountain It makes us feel ... what it means to be authentic Zagori!


Where to stay:


• The Paths Mountain Resort & Restaurant has raised a few years ago the bar of luxury living in Zagori. It all began with the vision of its creator, who restored old houses and barns converting them to a settlement ... 8 beautiful stone houses, with the imposing mansion in the middle.Of course, impress the cottages, independent houses 41-62 sq.m., But the whole complex exudes unpretentious luxury and attachment to tradition, however, combined with all the comforts.The restaurant is really a jewel for the region, with delicious local-Greek cuisine, but seen through a creative look. In the evening the wonderful bar or in the cozy living room next to the large fireplace to enjoy a glass of wine from the cellar ... hip. From € 85. The restaurant is open 19: 00-22: 30. (Ano Pedina, tel. 26530 71116, www.monopatiaresort.gr)• The Primoula guest house, with lovely views. The 11 atmospheric rooms (of which 4 are independent or duplex suites) exude warmth house. In plus, the wonderful breakfast area! From € 50. (Tel. 26530 71133, www.primoula.gr)• In Porfyron, housed in an old mansion 160 years, and stands out for its beautiful spaces as for its warm hospitality. From € 70. (Tel. 26530 71579, www.porfyron.com)• In exceptional Pyrrhic guesthouse with 10 rooms which offer high aesthetics and many amenities. Strong is the restaurant. From € 80. Lunch from € 12 / person. Open 12: 00-15: 30 & 19: 00-23: 00. (Tel. 26530 71141, www.pirrion.gr)• The aesthetic Amaryllis guesthouse in a very romantic setting, reminiscent of French countryside. From € 85. (Tel. 26530 71132, www.amaryllis-house.gr)• In Ameliko picturesque hostel with 14 rooms, combining tradition and modern comforts. From € 60. (Tel. 26530 71 501, mob. 6944772638, www.ameliko.gr)• Huge tradition of authentic Zagori hospitality has Orestis house, which renewed, continues to be an ideal choice for the region. From € 60. (Tel. 26530 71202, www.orestishouse.gr)


Where to eat:


• In doll Dizaki, on top of the central road uphill. In a romantic aesthetics, with many creative suggestions. From € 15. Daily from 12:00. (Tel. 26530 71 121)• In the tavern Mrs Salvation cooking wild boar with leek, lamb with potatoes, beans with herbs in the oven and homemade pies. From € 12 / person. Open P / S / T. (Tel. 26530 71 209)• Taverna Kostas Xanthos was the first in the village. The flour pie Mrs. Olga is must, while meat eaters keen to juicy chops and mamadistikous meatballs. Not missing steamy soups, and appetizers for ouzo. From € 10 / person. Daily from 12:00. (Tel. 26530 71 289)• Before you leave, make a stop at the Althea for homemade pastries. Daily 07: 30-23: 00. (Tel. 26530 71 209)
 
  

Surprise!

 They can be found in the "shadow" of Ano Pedina, but this is a particularly scenic settlement, amphitheatrically built, with very old stone houses. It is, indeed, one of the oldest villages of Zagoria, already mentioned in 1321!In 17th-18th century, the village flourished, and settled here many neighboring villages, and proof of acne is the church of the Archangels, 1611, and that of St. Nicholas.Surprise is the agricultural hotel Anemi. A very warm and cared space, created by Paul and Lila, who left behind the life of the city and made their dream a reality!Impressive is the central area with the large table next to the fireplace and traditional kitchen, but also the loom!The 7 rooms are ... experience, perfectly embedded in the tradition of the region. Hosts exhibitions and organizes various events pareistika! (Tel. 26530 72003,mob. 6944 412808, www.anemi-zagori.gr)

Monodendri

 
The famous!
Perhaps the best known of the villages of Zagoria, basically from here started the tourist development of the region. Located in an extremely privileged position, at an altitude of 1,060 m., Near one end of the famous Vikos Gorge.The best view of the canyon is one of the historic monastery of Agia Paraskevi like hooked on the edge of the cliff. Established in 1412 by the voivode Michael.There is no way you can not win this place, with its wonderful architecture and sublime nature. Walk the streets and discover the beautiful churches, the building of Rizarios Exhibition Center, but also the family home of Rizari brothers.Where to stay:• In the beautiful family guesthouse Kon / and Helen in Pano Mahala. From € 60. (Tel. 26530 71328, www.ke-hotel.gr)• The sophisticated hotel Zagori Philoxenia. From € 45. (Tel. 26530 71040, www.zagoriphiloxenia.gr)• In Arktouros Hotel with stylish rooms. From € 40. (Tel. 26530 72000, www.hotel-arktouros.gr)Where to eat:• Leading the development of tourism in Zagori, hospitable cook Kikitsas he must ... the pie through the eponymous tavern (The Pie Kikitsas), since 1958. Today, the Victory hands and Akis Ladia, continues to making history.In a rustic parlor, which puts intense feeling of warmth, aside from the famous flour pie, here you also find grilled meat, some cooked, and possible recommendations from the spit, as kontosouvli. From € 10 / person. Tip: The famous "pie Kikitsas' costs € 17 (for 3 people). Daily 10: 00-22: 00. (Monodendri, tel. 26530 71340, www.ipitatiskikitsas.gr, www.visitzagori.gr)• For homemade sweets to Grandma's Secrets. (Tel. 26530 71 370)• For imaginative dishes at Cinnamon & Clove neighboring Vitsa. Open Thurs-Mon 13: 00-21: 30. (Tel. 26530 71671)Large & Small PapigoCosmopolitan!Papigo (Large & Small), though isolated from the other villages of Zagoria, it is still extremely popular - and cosmopolitan. Impressive are the temple of St. Vlasios by hexagonal bell tower at the entrance of the Grand Papigo and Taxiarches Mikro.Still, the stone paths, incredible views Astraka (one of the peaks of Mount Tymfi), but also the high level of tourist infrastructure. From here start and climbing trails in Tymfi and famous Drakolimni.Where to stay:• The hostel Papaevangelou, with 10 refurbished rooms and 4 traditional studios. In plus, the view to the Astraka! From € 75. (Tel. 26530 41135, www.hotelpapaevangelou.gr)• In Astra Inn, outside Megalo Papigo. From € 110 villa. (Tel. 26530 42108, www.papigo.com)• In Avragonio, excellent guest house in the heart of Big Papigo, 23 aesthetics, renovated houses. It features a cafe, a mini library and conference room. From € 85. (Tel. 26530 41129,www.avragonio.gr)• In Mikro Papigo 1700 Hotel & Spa for lovers of design, and a very nice spa. From € 90 double. (Tel. 26530 41179, www.mikropapigo.gr)Where to eat:• In modern tavern Astra. From € 15. (Tel. 26530 42108, www.papigo.com)• In the tavern of Zeus at Mikro Papigo. (Tel. 26530 41257, www.diaspapigo.gr)• For coffee and cake in the café-bar Bimtsa in Megalo Papigo. (Tel. 26530 41 116)• In carefully Ioannidis tavern in Megalo Papigo. (Tel. 26530 41 124) 

Elati

The hidden!

Although less known than other Zagoria is beautiful and featured traditional settlement. At an altitude of 960 m., In a wooded area of ​​Mitsikeli, it was destroyed by the Germans during the occupation.In plus, the short distance from Ioannina, and the authenticity of, and the development of tourism is mild.
 
 Where to stay:

• In one of the 12 rooms of 4 * Athena Hotel. In the same area there is also a restaurant, while preparing and conference venue. From € 80. (Tel. 26530 71540, www.zagoriathina.gr)Where to eat:• In the tavern In Riza. Warm and wonderful views. Specialty lamb in the hull, the rolled ewe and hunting. Daily except Wed, Thu from 12:30. (Tel. 26530 71 550)gardens

The village with the bridges!Once the villages of Zagoria, situated at an altitude of 750 m., Always stands out for its stone bridges, which are considered among the most important in Greece, the most important one of Kokkori.Important and museum of Agapios Tolis with the wonderful folklore collection. But as for accommodation and food, there are options.Where to stay:• The Angels Garden. Mansions with many amenities. From € 70. (Tel. 26530 71080, www.aggelon-kipi.gr)• At 4 * Baya hotel. From € 65. (Tel. 26530 71112, www.mpagia.gr)• The stone complex Machalas. From € 85. (Tel. 26530 71976, 71630, www.machalas.gr)Where to eat:• On Daisies, at the entrance of the village, with inspired dishes. From € 12. (Tel. 26530 71410)Places of interest

• The Rizarios Exhibition Center in Monodendri.• The 40,000 objects of daily life from all over the Zagoria region in Folklore Museum of Agapios Tolis, in Kipi. Opening hours 8: 30-13: 00 & 17: 30-20: 30, tel. 26530 71 826.• The copy of Rigas Charta (of only 17 surviving) in the library of the School Paschaleias Kapesovo.• The 1,240 different species of medicinal plants and herbs in the Museum of Flora and Fauna Lazaridis in Koukouli.• Rogovo Monastery (11th c.) Outside Tsepelovo, with gilded carved iconostasis and frescoes of 1765.• Notre Spiliotissa, built on a rock between Aristi and Papigo, next to Voidomatis. The iconostasis and the frescoes are of excellent technique.
Highlights
  • The physical fonts (or "ovires") in the gorge created by Rogovo stream, 500 m. from Mikro Papigo. Formed in cavities of the limestone rock, which erodes the water. In the summer the locals, and of course the guests make their dives in these "pools" with cold and crystal clear waters.
  •  The over 100 stone bridges of the region, which are among the best examples of this great art nationwide. They are the three-arched Plakidas (or Monks), close to the Gardens, and Noutsou (or Kokkori) in Cocoon. Also, the arched bridge of Konitsa, at the exit of the river Aoos.
  • The very important monastery of Agia Paraskevi (1412) in Monodendri, hooked on the edge of the gorge of Vikos.
  • The 1,200 stone steps to Vradeto. The famous "ladder" until 1970 was the only passage between the village and the neighboring Kapesovo. The journey takes 40 minutes, while similar "stairs" exist in other villages of Zagoria.
  • The famous Drakolimni Tymfi. Gkistova the lakes are also important Grammos, Flega Verligka Mavrovouni and Peristeri.
In their important habitat live wild goats and large birds of prey, smaller mammals and renowned Alpine newts (rare amphibian that resembles lizard). Drakolimni will arrive following the paths starting at Mikro Papigo, in about 4 hours, with a stopover the refuge of Astraka.• With a total length of 12 km., A width of about 200 m. and a depth of over 900 m. The Vikos Gorge is one in the Guinness Book of Records as "the gorge with the smallest opening and the deepest in the world."The slopes are full of rare herbs, which have existed for centuries basic therapeutic agent for locals. Select to capture the monastery of Agia Paraskevi in ​​Monodendri by Oxia (the same settlement), but also from the point Beloi (Vradeto).• Seven 'huts' (traditional Sarakatsaniki homes), lodgings, corral, sheep pen, gazebo, creamery, daskalokalyvo even church make up the backdrop of Sarakatsaniki Stan in Gyftokampos position. This outdoor museum, 10 km. the village Skamneli, which represents the authentic life of Sarakatsanaioi.• The paths of Zagorochoria are ideal for riding. Alternatively, experience the area, try an off-road excursion with 4x4. Top, of course, the rafting experience in Voidomatis, after the bridge of Aristi, like after the bridge Kleidonia.There is a village in western Zagori participate in different from other ... There is only the natural beauty as it is panoramically built between five hills, there are only stone houses, fine examples Zagoritiki architecture decorate, but also its people who won us and made us highlight Ano Pedina a top destination not only for winter but for all seasons! Why we chose? 

 Built So, at an altitude of 900 m. and Trump easy access from Ioannina (not blocked by snow almost never), and ideally located as a base for all the surrounding villages and sights of Zagori, Ano Pedina have figured out how to pull our eyes on them!Among the most now live Zagoria, have declared accidentally "traditional village" which prove the old and the new houses that are built or renovated in old mansions or built anew, but respecting the local architecture!The result is like a natural continuation and extension of the settlement. Here the accommodation suggestions (numbering around 6-7) and taverns (there are options of creative cooking until cooked) are open every day (not just S / K as in other villages) and are all so tidy that recommended quality benefits, but above all for the hospitality offered to visitors.
Today officials are about 50, yet they have found the secret of success. No other village have never seen such harmony between businessmen.The motel and restaurant owners have overcome their petty egos, always driven by 'we' and have set as their priority the collective promotion of the site.At the same time, all participating as a team in celebrations and events. Riveting was the answer, "Why, what have we to lose?" When I asked them how they have succeeded!All the wisdom in the simplicity of this phrase, should be emulated.And turning a little in the past ... the village is heard for the first time 25 years ago, with the guesthouse House Orestes to operate in one of the oldest mansions of over Mahala.
 The beginning of a mild growth is in 2000 with hostels like the purple, and the Primoula Ameliko, significantly raise the standards by putting the village slowly on the tourist map.The big "bang" is seven years later when three young guys from Athens returned to their place and decided to take action here. Then open and favorite all Dizaki, with Electra and Chris to propose a different kitchen, next to the wonderful traditional tavernas (singled to Aloni, this Costa Xanthos and Salvation).Soon their appearance did Trails. A luxury hotel that Ms. attracted its own audience, while Amarylliskai the Pyrrhic, with excellent aesthetic rooms and facilities pleasant surprise, are the most recent arrivals. The sequel is written yet ...Whether you choose Ano Pedina for a weekend or just for a brief excursion in nature, it is certain that here we relax, brake from the hectic pace of the city and experience this positive energy that exudes the village in all its glory ...







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