8-Hour Guided Central Zagori Tour with Stone Bridges and Vikos Gorge

The first point of interest is the most famous single-arched stone bridge of Zagori, the "Kokkori" Bridge. It was built in 1750 AD; its length is 35 m, its width is 2.5 m, and its highest point is 13 m.

At the same time, there was another story connected with the bridge, according to which it was also used to punish zoo theft. In order to find out if a suspect was a zooist, they forced him to cross the bridge carrying a goat on his back. If he managed to pass or admitted his act, he was acquitted. Otherwise, his punishment was drowning in the river. This bridge connects the villages of Kipi, Dilofo, and Koukouli. At the side of the bridge, there is an amazing climbing field for advanced climbers.

We continue to the most popular three-arched stone bridge, "Plakida" or "Kalogeriko." It was first built as a wooden bridge and later, in 1814 AD, was reconstructed in stone by Abbot Serafeim. Its length is 54 m, its width is 3.15 m, and its highest point is 6.7 m. This bridge connects the villages of Kipi, Dilofo, and Koukouli.

Then we explore the traditional village of Koukouli through the stone steps of Koukouli, which date from the 13th century. In the village, there are many traditional houses, a complex of old schools, arches, fountains, and the Church of the Virgin Mary, one of the best churches in the Zagori area. We relax with refreshments or a coffee.

After this short break, we observe the longest stone trail in Greece, the Vradeto Steps. It has approximately 1,500 stone steps, 39 turns, and 2 single-arched stone bridges. It was the only means of transportation until 1973 to the highest village of Zagori, "Vradeto," at an altitude of 1,340 m.

The next stop is to observe the breathtaking view of Vikos Gorge, with its huge cliffs rising up to 900 m, eagle nests, and more. Vikos Gorge has been recognized by the Guinness Book of Records since 1997 as the "deepest relative to its width" canyon on earth, among other distinctions, and is one of the most important monuments of nature in Greece.

Have you ever seen a stone forest? Natural thin layers of towering limestone formations at an altitude of 1,500 m, surrounded by oak and maple forest, create a natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe. You may think that someone has placed one slate on top of the next to create a tower.

The next visit is to Monodendri village, whose name, according to tradition, comes from "a colossal tree (fir) rising above the Monastery of Saint Minas, struck by lightning and surviving until 1840." The village stands at an altitude of 1,060 m.

Enjoy a meal featuring local recipes such as Zagorian pies - cheese pie, thin pie, vegetable pie, and more - or giant beans with vegetables, under the shade of a 200-year-old maple tree.

For lovers of tradition, we visit a handicraft center where clothes, carpets, and wedding gifts are produced, and you will receive full information about them.

The last break is at the monument of the glorious women of Zagori.