Discovering Epirus and Ionia: A Magical 7-Day Journey in History, Nature and Gastronomy

Embark on a captivating journey through Epirus with our 7-day exploration, where history, nature, and culinary delights intertwine. From the mystical Oracle of Acheron to the turquoise waters of the Ionian Islands, each day unfolds a new chapter of discovery. Immerse yourself in the charm of Parga's cobbled streets, cruise around Onassis' islands, and witness the playful dance of dolphins in the Amvrakikos Gulf. Traverse the Tzoumerka Mountains, a haven of tradition and breathtaking landscapes. Join us on a curated adventure, blending cultural enrichment, natural wonders, and the savory flavors of Epirus. The itinerary is designed for the guests to experience the diverse beauty of our region and enjoy authentic and unforgettable experiences.

Day 1: Arrival at the airport and transfer to the accommodation - free time 

Day 2:

With the arrival of the group and a first acquaintance with each other, we begin to show you around the city of Preveza. We walk in its cobbled streets and talk about its past, the occupations of the inhabitants, about professions that are still preserved to this day, and about the ecosystem of Amvrakikos.

We will also talk about its geographical position and the role that this position played in various cultural exchanges (culture, painting, art, music, etc.), which contributed to the city’s current profile.

We will about its gastronomy, which has influences from the marine gastronomical wealth of the Ionian Sea, the Amvrakikos Gulf, and not only. We visit the metropolitan church of Agios Charalambos and focus on the differences that Western art has about Greek art, “listening” to centuries-old narratives through images. We will visit the workshop – the gallery of a local artist. We will talk about the trade that developed in the area and we will visit the old consulates that are scattered in the historical center.

We end this walking tour with a short visit to a local distillery with decades of tradition, where we will taste its famous ouzo. Then, you will be free to choose one of the many traditional taverns of the historic center for a dive into the gastronomic treasures of our region.

Day 3: Tour to Acheron River and tour in Parga (9.00-19.00)

We will visit and learn about the Oracle of Acheron, the point where, according to Homer, “the river Acheron met with Kokytos and Pyriphlegethon, on the northwestern shores of Lake Acherousia, which was the entrance to the world of souls” Then, we will go to the beautiful, green village of Glyki at the springs of the river Acheron. The ancient Greeks believed that Acheron was the gateway to the Underworld. Here Hermes led the souls, which were then picked up by the boatman Charon to carry them across to Lake Acherousia, in the bowels of which was the infernal kingdom of Pluto-Hades and Persephone. The incomparable beauty of the river with its countless natural beauties will enchant your free time with a walk in this idyllic landscape. It is considered imperative for those who visit the springs of Acheron to cross this path because the area is itself a “poem of nature. The activities you can do are (horse riding, kayaking, rafting, etc.) There will also be a stop for lunch at a traditional stone tavern.

Later we will reach cosmopolitan Parga! Parga is built amphitheatrically with traditional two- and three-story houses with their tiled roofs, cobbled streets that invite you to get lost, cobbled streets, lacy shores, small bays, turquoise waters, picturesque architecture, and the castle that impresses when illuminated at night which was built by the Normans in the 14th century. There you will have free time to walk on the busy pedestrian street, explore, buy souvenirs and swim.

-Return 18.00

Day 4: Cruise to the Ionian Islands (7.30-19.00)

Lefkada

Participating in the “Eptanisos Cruise” you will visit the most beautiful and famous beaches of the Ionian Sea Porto Katsiki & Egremni. Swimming in their clear blue waters is unique.

Kefalonia

Our visit to Fiscardo, the northernmost port of Kefalonia, is enchanting. A traditional village with small bays, which retains its color and is located opposite and very close to Ithaca. It is built in a pine-covered green area. There, you will have free time for coffee and exploration.

Ithaca

It is difficult to forget Ithaca after getting to know it. A small mountainous island with enchanting bays reminiscent of an earthly paradise. Free time for swimming.

Meganisi : Papanikoli Cave

On the west side of Meganisi is the Cave of Papanikolis, the hideout, and base of the legendary submarine in the 2nd world War. Unforgettable is the experience you will feel when the ship enters the cave.

Skorpios - Sparta - Kastri 

Tour around the three islands of Onassis, with a guided tour and stop, for a unique afternoon swim in Skorpios.

Madouri

The island where the great poet Aristotle Valaoritis was born, grew up, and wrote his poems. Today the island is owned by the great-grandchildren of the poet, Nanos Valaoritis and Eleni Karapanagiotis.

Day 5: Dolphin Cruise at Amvrakikos Gulf (8.30-15.00)

Enjoy a cruise that highlights the enchanting nature, history, gastronomy, and Greek hospitality.

This tour of the Amvrakikos Gulf includes a guided tour of ecological and historical elements of the ecosystem and the wider area, observation of the wildlife of the Amvrakikos Gulf and mostly, the dazzling bottlenose dolphins and the Caretta-Caretta turtles. Then there is a stop for swimming and a buffet of freshly cooked meals, which includes mainly local and seafood dishes accompanied by a cool refreshment or drink under the bright summer sun.

Day 6: Excursion to Tzoumerka Mountains (8.00-19.00)

In the imposing Tzoumerka (Athamanic mountains) on the border of Epirus and Thessaly, in a natural setting of unparalleled beauty and charm, lies a cluster of picturesque, traditional villages, an earthly paradise hidden in steep slopes, impressive gorges and deep shaded ravines with rushing waters, which tries to balance, harmoniously, between modernity and tradition, past and present and to offer to every visitor,  The precious pieces of their interesting history and their rich architectural and folklore tradition.

On this tour, visitors will get to know the authenticity of Epirus, will become one with nature enjoying its tranquility, and pure oxygen, and will come into contact with the traditional flavors of the region.

Among coniferous forests emerge settlements, amphitheatrically built on the steep slopes of mountains, samples of excellent traditional architecture. Stone mansions and narrow, cobbled streets, scattered fountains, and watermills compose the residential core of the preserved settlement of Syrrako, while in the main village of Pramanta, the cave of Anemotrypa, at the entrance of the settlement, captivates all the senses and the church of Agia Paraskevi, in the central square of the village, is a meeting point and reference point for all residents. Rich mansions highlight the economic boom in Kalarrytes, while the Kipina monastery, in the hollow of the rock, undoubtedly causes awe and unspeakable respect. , while the masterpiece arched bridges, which stand scattered in the natural landscape, such as the emblematic Plaka Bridge, intensify the natural beauty of the mountains and the nature that surrounds them. stun the visitor with their impetuous power and impressive height, while a plethora of activities and hiking trails, in the generous natural environment of the area, will complete the reasons why the villages of Tzoumerka are an earthly paradise, waiting to be revealed by everyone.

Day 7: Departure and return with the sweetest and most unforgettable memories!