Nestled within the picturesque landscape of Greece lies the enchanting villages of Zagori, a best-kept secret known for their remarkable traditional architecture. 

While Greece boasts 19 UNESCO-protected sites, Zagori Villages (or Zagorochoria) stand out as the country's first 'cultural property' from the contemporary era, offering a unique blend of history, incredible gorges and modern allure. (The previous 18 all date to ancient or Byzantine times.) 

The Zagori Villages had been mostly abandoned until the 1980s, however, in recent decades they have been beautifully restored using local materials, showcasing a traditional architecture perfectly adapted to the mountainous terrain.

UNESCO has praised the Zagori Villages as they “showcase a traditional architecture adapted to the mountain topography”. They are typically organised “around a central square containing a plane tree and surrounded by sacred forests maintained by local communities”, while “a network of stone-arched bridges, stone cobbled paths, and stone staircases linking the villages formed a system that served as a political and social unit.” 

By Western European standards, Zagori in the Pindus Mountains is a relatively wild and remote area making these quaint settlements an idyllic escape for those seeking an experience away from the crowds. 

The cluster of 46 villages is set in one of the greenest natural settings in all of Greece, part of a National Woodland Park and a UNESCO Geopark. They are also close to Vikos Gorge, one of the most spectacular gorges in Europe that is featured in the Guinness Book of Records as the world’s “deepest relative to its width” gorge. 

How to get to Zagorochoria?

Despite its remote location, the area is within driving distance from two airports, including the international airport of Preveza, which is connected with seasonal flights to more than 15 countries. 

If you want to take in the villages’ outstanding architecture and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes, Walkers’ Britain can take you there with the 8-day Zagorochoria & Vikos Gorge Hiking trip, which includes accommodation, airport transfers and luggage transfers with self-guided daily departures between May and September.

Come and immerse yourself in the tranquillity and charm of Zagori before the world catches on to its allure.