The beauty of Greek countryside in Tzoumerka
Tzoumerka is a hidden treasure of Greece, a paradise for nature lovers and those fond of traditional life. Join us on this amazing exploration over five days. Our journey begins with visits to some of the most interesting villages in the area.
Day 1: At the Plaka Bridge and the Monastery Mouhoustiou
Our adventure in Tzoumerka starts at Plaka Bridge, famous not only for its history but also for its impressive architecture. Spanning the rushing Arachthos River, it is the third-largest single-arch bridge in Europe. Walking here, you will feel the sense of history and unique architecture.
If you have time you can enjoy a glass of fresh juice from the old customs office located next to the bridge which is now a cafeteria.
Next, we made a brief stop at the Monastery Mouhoustiou. Located between Plaka Bridge and Raftanaioi village, it offers a unique experience for visitors. The monastery, straddling both the Ioannina and Arta regions, has seen better days but still holds significance.
From the Monastery Mouhoustiou, we headed to Agnanta, one of the largest villages in Tzoumerka with 283 residents, situated at an altitude of 650 meters.
Known for its numerous springs and lush vegetation, Agnanta is a refreshing and picturesque village.
Our next destination was the Anemotrypa Cave, three kilometers from Pramanta at an altitude of 900 meters. Here, visitors will find uniquely sculpted colorful stalactites and three small lakes reflecting shades of grey, brass, and white. The cave, formed over time, is like a magical space filled with fantastical faces and architectural masterpieces.
After visiting the cave, we stopped in Pramanta for food, then headed to Melissourgoi and our accommodation at Agathi, where we stayed for two nights.
Day 2: Discovering the Kefalovryso Waterfall and Pramanta
Breakfast with a view
Waking up on the second day of our trip, we couldn’t have wished for a better breakfast. The tranquility of the mountain, the delightful scents, the delicious breakfast, and the stunning view were the perfect start to a full day of exploration in Tzoumerka.
The Kefalovryso Waterfall: Natural Beauty at the Highest Point
Our first stop was the Kefalovryso Waterfall. This waterfall is one of the most impressive spots in Tzoumerka, emerging from the northern side of Strongoula. 350 meters long and flowing continuously, it forms the Koferita stream, joining the Melissourgoi stream. The route is easy and well-marked, starting either from the Pramanta or Melissourgoi Refuge.
After about half an hour’s walk through a spruce forest, we reached the waterfall. If you let your gaze wander from right to left, you’ll see the northern part of Strongoula, Gerakobouni, the top of Agathi, the Neck of the Auti, and the impressive Kakarditsa.
After visiting the waterfall, we chose to go to the Pramanta Refuge, where we enjoyed a relaxing coffee and local dessert.
Exploring the village Melissourgoi
Next, we explored the village of Melissourgoi, enjoying a pleasant walk. Beyond the traditional architecture, the natural beauty and flowing waters are captivating, with dense vegetation emitting a sense of peace.
Read our post for the village of Melissourgoi here.
After our walk, we stopped at the Melissourgoi Refuge for coffee with a unique view and met the sweet dogs that frequent the refuge.
Pramanta: Discovering the Head Village
At the end of the day, we ended up in Pramanta, enjoying a leisurely stroll in the village center.
We visited significant sights such as the Arapi fountain, the Monument of the Woman of Pramanta, the Church of Agia Paraskevi, and the beautiful square.
Our day ended at “Taverna Cafe Very’s Lampros“, offering delicious food, excellent service, and reasonable prices.
Read our post for the village of Pramanta here.
After a full day and a satisfied stomach, it was time to return to our base to prepare for the next day.
Day 3: Syrrako and Other Wonderful Stops
Our Third Breakfast and an Unforgettable Moment at the Monastery of Agia Paraskevi
Our third breakfast started just as deliciously, this time joined by Sophia, the accommodation manager. Two days of tasty breakfasts, stunning views, and great company seemed too short. However, the rest of our day more than made up for it.
Before leaving the area, we made a quick stop at the Monastery of Agia Paraskevi in Melissourgoi. It’s one of the most beautiful and well-kept monasteries I’ve visited in Epirus, and words can’t fully capture the peace felt there.
On the Road to Syrrako: A Series of Unique Stops
We headed to Syrrako, but on the way, we passed through Christoi village and reached Sygkouna Bridge. It’s a single-arch stone bridge crossing the Kalarritikos river, built in 1908 by the merchant Sygkouna. Perched on the rocks on either side of the river, it is an impressive structure.
Continuing to Kalarrites, we didn’t visit the village this time but stopped at the stunning Monastery of Kipina.
This small monastery is built entirely in the hollow of a rock, creating a dome-like interior.
The bridge of Filos and the Gkoura guesthouse
We continued to Filos Bridge, a stone single-arch bridge at an altitude of 749 meters, over the Kalarritikos river. Built in 1908, it is well-preserved and an important historical site, near a Bailey-type iron bridge and is a remarkable place to visit.
Then we cross the bridge and a little further we make a stop to visit the path that leads to the waterfalls of Kouiassa with an impressive natural beauty that is definitely worth exploring. A place where the sounds of nature are the most beautiful music.
The path leads to the Waterfalls and the old watermill, which has been renovated and functions as a cafe and more.
We decided to leave Kalarrites for the next day and ended up in Syrrako. We stayed at Gkoura Guesthouse, which also has an excellent tavern. Our room was very clean and comfortable. The tavern offered delicious dishes with generous portions and reasonable prices. But the best part was the owners, who were exceptionally hospitable and warm people.
Day 4: Kalarrites, Monastery of Vyliza, and a Wonderful Excursion
Exploring Kalarrytes
After enjoying a full and delicious breakfast, we began our exploration of Kalarrytes. This village, perched on the slopes of Tzoumerka, is located at an altitude of 1,120 meters, above a steep gorge where the Kalarritikos river flows.
In the village, you’ll find many guesthouses, most housed in traditional buildings. A popular destination is the traditional coffee shop “Akanthos,” offering coffee, appetizers, cooked dishes, and delicious meatballs.
Monastery of Vyliza: A Treasure in Tzoumerka
We continued our tour to the Monastery of Vyliza. This monastery is near Matsouki, on a narrow plateau on the slope of Kritharia mountain, above the Matsoukiotiko Stream. Located at an altitude of 1050 meters, it combines wild beauty with quaintness, over a cliff and with views of the gorge where the three tributaries of Arachthos meet.
Read our post about the Vyliza Monastery here.
The Excursion to Matsouki
After visiting the Monastery of Vyliza, we decided to make a quick stop in Matsouki. Although the location is stunning, unfortunately, Matsouki lacks amenities like cafeterias or taverns. We were disappointed to find everything closed, but worse was the poor road condition to Matsouki. We managed to bypass obstacles and hope it’s more accessible in another season.
Read our post about the village Matsouki here.
However, the view that we saw at the chapel of Agios Petros was magical and it is worth mentioning the specific point of view..
The Chapel of the Holy Apostles: An Excursion into Wonderful Nature
Returning to Syrrako, we decided to take one of the most beautiful short excursions we’ve experienced in Epirus. We took a dirt road from Syrrako and, after 20-30 minutes, reached the chapel of the Holy Apostles. There, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Lake Ioannina.
It’s hard to describe the feelings this route evokes, especially where the chapel is located. Mountain lovers will fully understand.
We ended our day with a wonderful dinner at Gkoura tavern and a stroll in Syrrako, enjoying the sunset.
Final Breakfast and Farewell to Syrrako
Our last breakfast was an opportunity for one final stroll in Syrrako before departing.
We enjoyed the village’s beauty one last time before starting our journey back to Ioannina. As we were returning to Ioannina, weather permitting, we chose to return via Baros Pass.
The two stone bridges that we meet upon entering the settlement’s entrance are of exceptional beauty. The first is the Punta Nuova Bridge or New Bridge built in 1800 and next to it the Fantanitsia fountain is preserved. The second is the bridge Punta Viaklia Bridge (old bridge) or Nik bridge, built in 1938 on top of an older one. Nearby is a watermill.
Read our post about Syrrako here.
As our return was to Ioannina, there was no chance, weather permitting, that we should not choose to return by the Baros pass.
It is one of the most challenging passes in Pindus, known for unpredictable snowstorms even in spring. The road crosses an amazing path of beauty among gorges, steep slopes, and dense forests.
This visit to the beautiful area of Tzoumerka was not our first, but it was yet another unique experience that reaffirmed our love for this place.
Tzoumerka combines natural beauty with rich history and tradition, leaving us with memories that will stay with us forever.
The sense of peace, the rejuvenating mountain climate, the rich gastronomy, and the warm hospitality that resonate from every page of our travel journal make us feel blessed to have had the chance to revisit this hidden gem of Greece.
