When most of us think of Greece, images of beaches, warm weather, nightclubs, and archeological sites come to mind. Yet, these nautical and lively environments exist primarily in the south of Greece, which is much more traveled than the north. If your summer plans include a visit to Greece, I urge you and your fellow travelers to check out the north of Greece, specifically, the region of Epirus.
First, I must state that this is not where you will be excessively clubbing, have access to a beach, find fast food or any form of junk food, a long with many international visitors. In order to see and expeirience something new, one must go out of their comfort zone. The hospitality is excellent and all visitors are welcomed during their stay by locals. What is issue would be is sacrificing a few days at the beach and clubs for a quaint, remote, mountain getaway.
When I think of Epirus, three things come to mind: the stunning Vikos Gorge (the world’s deepest, relative to its width), the stone villages of Zagochoria, and delicious northern cuisine. Vikos Gorge offers opportunities to go white water rafting down the Voidomatis River, swim in crystal clear streams (but like all mountain streams, the water is frigid even in the summer months), and hike the miles and miles of organized trails. And one can appreciate northern Greece’s unspoiled nature from the panoramic view far above the gorge that stretches for miles and miles.
In terms of dining, there are only a few local tavernas in the area of Vikos Gorge, all serving primarily meat dishes and locally grown produce. I still remember the most amazing dish of braised rabbit with rice and vegetables (spinach and carrots) – a typical dish served in the north. Although many are lured to the Mediterranean cuisine and seafood of the south, the north of Greece is big in rabbit, pork, chicken, and more simple dishes.
Aside from the gorge and food, there are not many distractions here. Epirus is a place where one can “check out” of society for a few days and escape temptations from technology. As warned, there is not a party vibe here, rather, a rural town getaway. What made Epirus most special for me was the simplicity and authenticity of the local community. There was no sign of locals who cater to the summer tourist group, it was basically the same place year around, small and quaint. Perhaps, this is the best way to expierience Greece as a foreigner, as you are going to be thrown into the true culture of Greece during your stay. The hotels are wonderful, offering indoor pools, sauna’s, spacious rooms, and lots of privacy to their guests. I highly recommend Epirus for a small weekend excursion or for three to four nights max to stay.
By visiting Epirus one will get a different perspective of Greece, and have many wonderful tales to tell their friends of the ethnic expierences they had while staying there. The mountains and remote areas are not for all travelers, but give Epirus a look. After your stay here, then you can head down south to the islands or stay in the north, at Thessaloniki. As said by the locals in Greece, “Ολα καλα στην Ελλαδα”, which translates to “all good in Greece”. This quote refers to no matter where you travel within the country, it will be an unforgettable and wonderful vacation. Put Epirus on your bucket list to start your 2021 bucket list off right.
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