The valley of Aspropotamos at village Milia. On the right we distinguish the snowed peak of Kakarditsa (photograph by Thodoris Kliafas)

We thank Popi Athanasopoulou for her article at clickatlife.gr [in Greek language]

 

The villages of Aspropotamos (Acheloos river) are situated between Tzoumerka, Metsovo and Pertouli at the western part of the county of Trikala and in southern Pindos. The nature is absolutely stunning with mountains, high pines and gorges all around and although they are almost deserted they still maintain an excessive beauty which we ought to visit and admire. The whole region stretching over 20.094 hectares has been embodied to the European network Natura 2000.

These villages are mostly inhabited during spring and summer as they are a point of return for the people who have housing there. In the winter months, those people prefer to stay in Athens, Trikala and Farsala. Unfortunately, several buildings within those villages have suffered extensive deterioration.

The villages now

All of them cherish beautiful sceneries as they are built in idyllic locations and at an altitude of between 950 and 1.480 meters among fir trees. In each village you will discover a main square and a central stone-built church. Picturesque alleys, countless chapels, traditional housing with balconies full of blossoming marigold and basil will attract your attention. Krania is the largest village of the complex at 1.150 meters altitude and 72 Km away from the town of Trikala where you will find a Folklore Museum too.

Agia Paraskevi (Tzourtzia) is the second largest village of the Aspropotamos village complex at an altitude of approximately 950 meters and south of Metsovo. The population is 296 inhabitants and worthy of your visit the church of Ayios Georgios which is more than 200 years old. For your accommodation select to stay at the villages of Kalliroi and Polithea. There are also hostels at Krania and Gardiki where you will taste the region’s gastronomy in small taverns. Kebabs, pies and roast lamb are a must. You may also buy locally sourced cheese and honey.

As far as activities in the region are concerned, you will have plenty of options for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, rafting and mountain climbing. Do not forget to visit the lake Verligka and the spectacular waterfalls.

Info at clickatlife.gr:

Acheloos is the second longest river in Greece. It streams from Mount Pindos southwest of Metsovo and after a route of 220 kilometers it empties into the Ionian Sea. It is otherwise referred to as Aspropotamos (Whiteriver) due to its white gurgling waters in spring when the snow melts from the surrounding mountain peaks.

 

How to get there

Easy access is guaranteed through Trikala town and Kalambaka. Enter the Ioannina-Trikala autoroute and take the Mourgani turn at the intersection which will lead you to Kastania and the rest of the villages. 

 

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From: Eva Kanellopoulos

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