National Walking Month: Undisturbed Hiking Trails to Experience with Aristi Mountain Resorts & Villas, Greece

Situated in west Zagori, Epirus in north-western Greece, Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas is home to luxurious accommodation set within a wild and rugged landscape. Merely 40 minutes from Ioannina airport and 2.5 hours’ drive from Thessaloniki airport, Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas is easily accessible yet entirely remote, making for an intimate mountain escape. Hardly on the tourist radar and untouched by even the most experienced trekkers,  Aristi Mountain Resort plays host to an abundance of beautiful hiking routes, perfect for an active spring getaway and to tie into National Walking Month this May. The plunging Gorge of Vikos and the enchanting Towers of Astraka are punctuated by the crystal clear waters of the Voidomatis River, creating an idyllic backdrop for a variety of scenic walks.

Aristi Mountain Resort is nestled in a world-class national park teeming with wildlife, untouched nature and idyllic enclaves. The hotel is surrounded by the spectacular and remote Zagori region, which is currently under consideration for the UNESCO World Heritage list. The resort focuses upon connecting guests with nature and takes advantage of its mountainous surroundings by offering a selection of tailored hiking tours and experiences, suitable for all levels, such as the Trekking Adventure Package. After a long days hiking the gorge, guests are treated to a sanctuary of peace and tranquillity inside the boutique spa where they can enjoy a personalised massage to recharge and refuel.

Hiking in Zagori

The imposing rock towers of Astraka and the mythical Drakolimni Lake are unique hiking destinations where one can admire old arched stone bridges, cobbled streets, picturesque village squares, incredible gorges and alpine altitude lakes. Hikers can also experience the Steps of Vradeto, an impressive 200 year old cobbled path with 1000 steps, taking in the breath-taking views of the Vikos Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world.

Among the fortunate footsteps that have walked along these paths are those of the team at Aristi Mountain Resort. With this knowledge, the team have created a bespoke directory for spring 2019 to help the discerning guest uncover the trails of their choice. With an abundance of active experiences available, below is just a small selection of what’s on offer:

Novice

Spiliotissa Monastery – Kleidona Bridge

Possibly one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Greece, this route starts off a few kilometres from the hotel on a stone bridge crossing the Voidomatis River. Hugging the north bank of the river, the route passes by the 17^th Century chapel of Agioi Anargiri before climbing steadily to reach the ancient bridge at Kleidona. From here a car can be arranged (in advance) to transport guests back to the hotel.

Duration: 2hrs

Intermediate

Vikos Village to the Voidomatis Springs or Mikro Papigo

For those desiring a scenic yet slightly more rugged route, the path from Vikos village (5km from Aristi) leads hikers into the depths of the gorge. Starting just outside the village, the path is clearly signposted with duration (not distance) and a 30 minute downhill hike along stone, gravel and sometimes cobbled paths. At the base you will find the small chapel of Panagia and 10 minutes further along the bank the source of the river, the Voidomatis Springs – a truly magical sight. After exploring this area, guests can choose to continue on to Micro Papigo (2hr hike) or return up the gorge (45minutes), resting in the little lookout hut to take in the panoramas before returning to the hotel.

Duration: 1.5hrs

Challenging

Vikos Village – Monodendri

The most popular hike in West Zagori, this hike takes in the full stretch of the Vikos Gorge and leads guests from the village of Vikos (5km from Aristi) to the beautiful town of Monodendri (15km hike). Not for the light hearted, this route begins with a steep descent into the gorge before winding along the riverbed and occasionally crossing from one side to the other passing little chapels, the Voidomatis Springs and incredible panoramic views, finally ascending to Monodendri (1.5hrs). Return transport can be arranged by the hotel in advance and car waiting to bring guests back to the resort.

Duration: 6hrs