Greece…More than a beach holiday destination-Visit Meteora
Having Greece in mind as a holiday destination, words like beach, summer, blue skies, islands, parties, and yachts come to our mind. But Greece is much more than that!
With diversity in landscapes, experiences, alternative activities, gastronomy & wine and a culture starting from ancient times, to name a few, Greece offers a plethora of reasons for which one should visit.
During your stay in Greece explore the treasures made by man and nature over the centuries not only in the packed with tourists Greek islands but also on the mainland.
You can visit places lost in time all year round and fall in love with this unique strip of land on our planet.
Because of its geographical position, Greece has been a crossroad of civilizations that have left their traces everywhere: from ancient architecture to daily life from nutritional customs and in all forms of popular art in the various regions of the country.
Discover the real vibe of Greece by traveling through the mainland a land of exceptional beauty.
And don’t leave Greece without visiting the World Heritage site of Meteora.
Meteora
‘Suspended in the air’ is the meaning of Meteora in Greek and these architectural marvels seem exactly as doing this.
The almost eerie stone rocks of Meteora, which embrace the city of Kalambaka are preserved and protected monuments of humanity by UNESCO and the largest monastic city in the country after Mount Athos.
You just need to see the stone pinnacles wrapped in fog and you will understand what led the monks to look here for isolation and to hide in the face of an increasing number of Turkish attacks in Greece in the 14th century. But monks have lived in the caverns of Meteora as early as the 11th century.
Today, from the numerous monasteries of Meteora, only six operate the Monastery of Great Meteoron which is the largest of the monasteries located at Metéora, the Monastery of Varlaam, which is the second-largest monastery and in 2015 had the largest number of monks (seven) of the male monasteries.
The Monastery of Rousanou, which has nuns, the Monastery of St. Nicholas Anapausas, was built in the 16th century and has a small church, decorated by the noted Cretan painter Theophanis Strelitzas.
Last but not least the Monastery of St. Stephen which is built on a plain rather than on a cliff and the Monastery of the Holy Trinity which was built in 1475.
Here are some activities you can do in Meteora apart from visiting the monasteries:
1. Hiking and Nature Walks
Meteora is a paradise for nature lovers. The rock formations are not just visually striking; they also offer some fantastic hiking opportunities:
Hike to the top of the rocks: There are various trails that allow you to explore the rock formations themselves. Some of the more popular trails lead to panoramic viewpoints offering incredible views of the landscape.
Trikala Gorge Trail: A scenic hike through lush forests and along cliffs, providing both stunning views and a bit of adventure.
Kastraki Village to Meteora: A trail that takes you from the village of Kastraki, winding up through the rocks and offering amazing vistas.
2. Rock Climbing
Meteora is one of the best places for rock climbing in Europe, with its unique sandstone pinnacles offering routes for climbers of all levels. If you’re an experienced climber or want to try it out, there are plenty of guided climbing tours available.
3. Mountain Biking
Explore the Meteora region on two wheels. The terrain around Meteora is perfect for mountain biking, with a mix of dirt roads, trails, and paths through forests and valleys. You can rent a bike or join a guided cycling tour.
4. Photography
Meteora is a photographer’s dream, whether you’re capturing the dramatic rock formations at sunrise or the monasteries against the backdrop of a breathtaking sky. The views from certain spots, especially at sunset, are nothing short of magical.
5. Explore the Villages
Kastraki Village: A charming village nestled at the foot of Meteora, Kastraki has traditional stone houses, narrow alleys, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great place to wander and soak in the local culture.
Kalambaka: The town nearest to Meteora, Kalambaka is home to restaurants, cafes, and shops where you can enjoy local Greek cuisine and buy souvenirs like local honey, herbs, and handicrafts.
6. Visit the Natural History Museum of Meteora & Mushroom Museum
For a break from outdoor activities, you can head to the Natural History Museum in Kalambaka. It’s dedicated to the flora, fauna, and geology of the Meteora area. The Mushroom Museum, also in Kalambaka, is a quirky museum showcasing a wide variety of mushrooms, with exhibits on their history, uses, and significance in Greek cuisine.
7. Cultural and Traditional Experiences
Local Food: Try some traditional Greek food in the villages around Meteora. Specialties like moussaka, souvlaki, and local pies are popular. You might also want to taste the local wine or raki (a Greek spirit).
Visit a Traditional Workshop: In the villages, you might find artisans creating local handicrafts, such as woven textiles or pottery. Some workshops offer demonstrations, and it’s a great way to experience the local culture.
8. Wildlife Watching
The Meteora region has diverse flora and fauna. Birdwatchers will especially appreciate the area, as the cliffs and rocks are home to a variety of bird species, including the Griffon vulture, which is often spotted soaring above the rocks. There are also hiking routes that can take you through forests and along rivers, where you might spot other wildlife.
9. Yoga or Meditation
Meteora’s tranquil and spiritual atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for yoga or meditation. Many visitors come here for wellness retreats, taking advantage of the serene surroundings to reconnect with nature. Some places offer yoga classes with views of the stunning rock formations.
10. Horseback Riding
Explore the Meteora landscape on horseback. There are a few stables around Kalambaka and Kastraki that offer horseback riding tours, providing a unique way to experience the area and its breathtaking scenery.
11. Stargazing
Meteora’s remote location, combined with low light pollution, makes it an excellent spot for stargazing. On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way, constellations, and other celestial wonders, with the dramatic rocks adding to the magical atmosphere.
12. Rafting on the Pindus River
For the more adventurous, the nearby Pindus River offers the opportunity for rafting and kayaking. The river winds through the stunning mountainous landscape, and the experience combines adrenaline with beautiful views.
13. Explore the Cave of Theopetra
Located a short drive from Kalambaka, the Cave of Theopetra is an important archaeological site, where one of the oldest known human settlements in Greece was discovered. The cave holds a fascinating history, including evidence of human activity dating back over 130,000 years. It’s also a great spot for those interested in the region’s prehistoric past.
As the New Year incites each of us to think about and plan new travel experiences or even relive, past, joyful ones embark on our Cultural Tour of Greece and discover what real Greece is all about.