Summary
Discover the wild beauty of Pindus National Park (Valia Kalda) on this guided walking holiday through north-western Greece. Trek among alpine lakes, dense forests, and dramatic gorges, encounter wildlife including bears, wolves, and golden eagles, and explore the traditional stone villages and bridges of Zagori. With expert guides, comfortable accommodation, and authentic Greek cuisine included, this journey offers an unforgettable blend of nature, culture, and adventure.
START / FINISH - Ioannina Airport
Activity code: GR-TR-PINDUS (VK1)
Difficulty: Challenging (average daily hike is 8 hours)
Duration: 8 Days
Pindus National Park & Zagori Walking Holiday – Alpine Lakes, Wildlife & Traditional Villages
Explore the remote wilderness of Pindus National Park (Valia Kalda), one of Greece’s most important protected areas, on this expert-led walking holiday. Established in 1966, the park preserves mountain biodiversity across its stunning landscapes, from extensive black pine and beech forests at lower altitudes to Balkan pine woodlands higher up. Its rugged terrain is home to the elusive Eurasian brown bear, as well as wolves, deer, wild cats, and the rare Balkan chamois.
The park also shelters over 80 species of birds, including ten rare species such as the Eastern imperial eagle, Golden eagle, and Lanner falcon, alongside a wide variety of reptiles, amphibians, and insects. Discover more than 1,000 plant species, including several endemic to the region, and enjoy crystal-clear alpine lakes, deep gorges, and sweeping mountain vistas. This is mountain trekking at its most spectacular, combining wildlife, flora, and panoramic scenery in one unforgettable experience.
The itinerary also includes visits to the picturesque villages of Zagori, known for their cobbled streets and traditional stone bridges, as well as the charming mountain town of Metsovo. Opportunities to extend your stay in Thessaloniki or along the coast make this holiday highly flexible.
This walking holiday is available as a Small Group Tour, with all meals, accommodation, and comfortable transport included. Your experienced English-speaking guide will share insights into the region’s natural and cultural heritage, while introducing you to local Greek cuisine along the way.
Accommodation has been carefully selected for character, comfort, and location. In the mountains, stays are at traditional guesthouses and mountain huts with bunk beds, pillows, and blankets. Mountain huts also offer restaurants, showers (cold water), and toilets. Guests are welcome to bring their own sheets, bed linen, and towels if preferred.
Practical Information
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Minimum Age: 14 years; participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
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Flexibility: The itinerary may be adapted by the tour leader due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Group Size: Small groups, minimum 2 persons
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Included: All meals, accommodation, transport, and licensed guide/tour escort
Rediscover the unspoilt beauty of northern Greece with hikes off the beaten track, enjoying alpine lakes, wildlife, traditional villages, and the warmth of Greek hospitality. This holiday is ideal for walkers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a blend of nature, culture, and adventure.
Extend your stay with a few relaxing days on Greece’s islands or elsewhere on the mainland — we can advise on options to complement your trekking journey.