© Photo by Christos Drazos
© Photo by Christos Drazos
© Photo by Christos Drazos

EPIRUS

A land of contradictions yet to be discovered.

1.

Averof winery in Metsovo village. Artistic atmosphere with a strong odor of grape must, will take you through the labyrinth of arcades, dim lights and stone walls and lead you where the winery’s exquisite wines are kept.  After watching the video about the vineyards and the winery operations you will be shown the 1.200 french barrels where the must is preserved and the rare bottles dating back to 1974. There is a wine bar for fine wine tasting and a shop to buy a great variety of wines and take back home with you. Open everyday between 10:00-15:00. For information 26560 42505.

2.

Tositsa Mansion in Metsovo village. This is a splendid folklore museum where you will see textiles and old looms, weaponry, storing chests and cooking equipment that characterize the region. Open everyday apart from Thursdays between 9:00- 13:30 and 15:00-17:00. Entrance fee 3€. For information call 26560 41084.

3.

Averof Art Gallery in Metsovo village for lovers of Greek art painters such as Litras, Yizis, Volanakis, Egonopoulos, Moralis and Tsarouchis to mention just a few. It also includes a hall of paintings from the 20th century which is of outmost interest. Open everyday apart from Tuesdays between 10:00-16:00. Entrance fee 3€. For information call 26560 41210.

4.

Averof Gardens or the park of St. George as it is otherwise called. It spreads over 10 acres and around the church you will see all tree varieties that grow in the region of Pindos.

5.

The small island ‘Nisaki’ in Pamvotida lake in the city of Ioannina. You can catch the boat from Molos all day every day. The trip only lasts 10 minutes and it is a must. This is where you will see the Museum of Ali Passa and taste the island’s local delicacies ranging from frog-legs to fresh eel.

6. 

 The Caves of Perama consisting of a route of 1.100 meters and spreading over 14.800 square meters. The visit should last about 45 minutes and is carried out by a guide. This is one of the oldest and largest caves on Greek territory and it was discovered accidentally by the locals during 2nd world war (1940).  Its most impressive part is the Hall of the Cross where you will see shiny white stalagmites and stalactites. At only 4 km from the town of Ioannina towards the village of Perama. Open everyday between 09:00-17:00. For information call 26510 81521. 

7.

The Museum of Wax Figures by artist Pavlos Vrelis. It is the sole Museum of Wax Figures in Greece and it is found in the village of Bizani on the Ioannina – Athens national road. Wax figures include important Greek personalities and recreations of great events in Greek history. Open everyday between 10:00-16:00. Entrance fee 6€. For information call 26510 92128.

8. 

 Zitsa village at 27 Km from the city of Ioannina. This is where you will come across the ultramodern Zinos winery and taste all sorts of wines. For information call 26580 22297.

9.

The Castle settlement in the city of Ioannina which is one of the largest in the world and has been constantly inhabited for thousands of years. You have to pass through the picturesque neighborhoods of the Castle in order to reach Its Kalais, on the hill, overlooking the whole town.  

10.

Promenade or bicycle ride around the lake of the city of Ioannina. You won’t be able to make a full round of the lake on foot or bicycle because the lake is huge, but there are selected sections that will amaze you with their beauty. Ideally on a Sunday morning.

11.

Kastanohoria village complex by the river Arahthos, for a quiet excursion and contact with the surrounding nature. The village is ideal for visitors who wish to engage to various sports and especially rafting in Arahthos river as well as sightseeing the numerous picturesque bridges. For good food and pleasant cafes also visit the villages Kalentzi, Patero, Fortosi, Kostitsi and Plaka Bridge which all constitute parts of the Kastanohoria complex.

12.

Mastorohoria village complex located very near the Albanian borders just after the town of Konitsa. The way there may be a bit of a hassle but once you arrive, you can feast your eyes to impressive stone built houses and a rich nature. In the villages of Pirsoyiani, Kastaniani, Kefalohori, Lagada and Vourbiani you will find interesting things to do and the locals will lavish you with their hospitality.

13.

The small town of Konitsa is 70 km north of the city of Ioannina and it is an amphitheatrically built settlement on the mountain slopes worthy of your visit. Choose to stay in one of the numerous guest houses, visit the bridge of Konitsa, gaze at the old Turkish mansions and enjoy the cuisine at any of the local tavernas and restaurants.